Gary Bartz - Ju Ju Man / Love Song (2016)

With Ju Ju Man (1976), Gary Bartz cemented his developing reputation as one of the strongest, most distinctive young reedman players of his time. The album had nothing to do with gimmicks: it’s simply straight-ahead Gary Bartz, backed by a superb rhythm throughout featuring Howard King, a young, compulsively fiery percussionist who had matured nicely working with Bartz for some four years. The section also included Charles Mims, a versatile pianist who could lock into a groove and work it for all its worth, while Curtis Robertson provided a solid, cohesive foundation for Bartz’ driving saxophone. The highlight of the album might be their sensitive accompaniment to Syreeta’s soulful rendition of My Funny Valentine.

The music on Love Song (1977), is light, bouncy and fun, aiming to please both listener and dancer. According to Bartz, “the album is a collection of some R&B or pop tunes that I had always liked and wanted to do.” The rhythm section of pianist George Cables, bassist Curtis Robertson and drummer King keep things bubbling underneath, while the background vocals of Clydie King, Billy Thedford and Shirley Matthews add an extra touch to the overall sound, helping to make the date a resounding musical success.