CHRIS STANDRING AS WE THINK

March 31, 2024

CHRIS STANDRING

AS WE THINK

Ultimate Vibe Recording

Chris Standring, guitar/composer; Andre Berry, bass; Chris Coleman, drums; Terry Disley, piano; Larry Steen, double bass; Lenny Castro, percussion; Aaron Janik, trumpet; Brandon Fields, alto saxophone; Katisse Buckingham & Dino Soldo, tenor saxophone/harmonica; Ido Meshulam, trombone; Rodney Lee, organ; Walter Murphy, horn arrangements.

The opening tune on Chris Standring’s new album titled, “As We Think” is called “Chocolate Cake.” Standring sweetens the arrangement with the use of a ‘talk box’ relying heavily on his invigorated rhythm section. On Track #2, a tune called “Good Gracious,” introduces horns into the mix. With Chris Coleman’s drums slapping the rhythm into place, Standring’s guitar improvises over the catchy repetitious groove. His music makes me want to get into my convertible, put the top down, and zoom up the highway under a sun-soaked sky. Standring creates music that encourages movement and dancing. His compositions are joyful, even when the tempo slows down. For example, on the R&B arranged tune, “Come Closer” there is still a compelling pulse to his arrangement. This tune incorporates elements of an Earth, Wind & Fire production into his arrangement, as Standring digs down deeply into the soul of the 1970s. He says this is one of his favorite tunes on his recent production.

The first radio single is titled, “Alphabet Soup.” It’s a bouncy little tune with a catchy melody that features guest artists Dino Soldo on tenor sax, with a Los Angeles-based horn section and the addition of organist, Rodney Lee. In my opinion, you can’t beat a guitar and jazz organ production. Coleman’s funky drums propel the piece forward with high energy. I enjoy the flavor that the organ brings to this party.

Standring debuted as a solo artist back in 1998 with an album called “Velvet.”

Twelve years later, in 2010 he smashed onto the Billboard Contemporary Jazz chart with a number one single from his “Bossa Blues” release. He repeated the number one single accomplishment four more times as featured guest guitarist on singles by Thom Rotella, Cindy Bradley, Rick Braun, and Richard Elliot.

Consistently, Standring’s music has reflected his talents as a gifted composer with arrangements that pulsate with energy and drive. This could also stem from surrounding himself with great musicians, including Chris Coleman on drums who is featured on “Michael’s Watch.” This tune becomes one of my favorites on this release. It shuffles onto the scene with Standring’s guitar introducing the melody and the click of Coleman’s drumsticks commanding my attention. My foot automatically taps to the beat.

Having waited sixty-plus years to finally fall in love, Chris recently put a ring on it and is enjoying his first marriage. He feels that the happiness he’s experiencing has colored the music on this album. “As We Think” reflects his mindset of hopeful positivity. It also captures the marital bliss that true love can bring. This music radiates joy.

Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil

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