Steve Gadd - Center Stage (LP)

Steve Gadd, the legendary drummer known for his virtuosic skills and innovative style, brings together the surviving members of the Gadd Gang for a captivating new album, "Center Stage." Recorded in January and February 2022 at Studio 4 of the WDR, this album is a testament to Gadd's enduring influence in the world of jazz, jazz fusion, and jazz funk.

"Center Stage" features a stellar lineup, including Eddie Gómez on bass and Ronnie Cuber on baritone saxophone, alongside the WDR Big Band. The album showcases a blend of soul, jazz, blues, and pop classics, reimagined with the distinctive Gadd Gang touch. From the funky grooves of "Signed Sealed Delivered" to the smooth jazz fusion of "Watching The River Flow," each track is a masterclass in musical prowess and creative reinterpretation.

The album's ten tracks, spanning a total of 62 minutes, offer a rich tapestry of sounds that highlight Gadd's drumming genius and the collective talent of the ensemble. Whether it's the bluesy "I Can't Turn You Loose" or the Latin-infused "Che Ore So," "Center Stage" is a celebration of musical diversity and excellence.

For fans of Steve Gadd and lovers of jazz in all its forms, "Center Stage" is a must-listen. It's not just an album; it's a journey through the rich landscape of jazz, guided by one of its most revered masters.