Shifting Times

Paradigm Shift consists of organist Gerry Youngman, guitarist Melvin Henderson, and drummer Ted Poor. Their debut recording adds several American guests used in various combinations. Clifford Brown's "Sandu" is reworked into a funky soul-jazz setting, utilizing expressive solos by trombonist Wycliffe Gordon and trumpeter Marcus Printup, and adding a tasty George Benson-like solo by Henderson. Virtuoso vibraphonist Joe Locke is at the forefront of the light but breezy take of "Yesterdays," with the trio coolly percolating behind him. Youngman's "Half a World Away" is lightly swaggering funk, showcasing Printup (on both open and muted horn) and Henderson. Stevie Wonder's "Big Brother" is adapted successfully into a jazz-funk, featuring Locke and Gordon in a very accessible adaptation. The trio finally saves a pair of originals just for themselves, including "Simplistic Blues" (which is more engaging than its title makes it sound), though the rather pedestrian drumming in "Why Not Scrambled" gives it a cheesy flavor. Overall, this is a good start to a promising jazz band. ~ Ken Dryden|