"Pucker" is a dynamic and innovative album by jazz drummer Scott Amendola and guitarist Charlie Hunter, released on October 15, 2013, under SAZI Records. This collaboration marks the second album for the duo as co-leaders, following their previous project "Not Getting Behind Is the New Getting Ahead." With Amendola receiving top billing and contributing the majority of the song credits, this album showcases their 20-year musical chemistry and their ability to blend free jazz and avant-garde elements seamlessly.
Recorded live to 1/2" tape over two days in July 2013 at Tiny Telephone in San Francisco, "Pucker" features nine original tracks, with the exception of "Scott's Tune," penned by Amendola's grandfather, the late session guitarist Tony Gottuso. The album's title track, "Pucker," sets the tone with its intricate rhythms and improvisational flair, while tracks like "Deep Eyes" and "Buffalo Bird Woman" highlight the duo's knack for creating atmospheric and engaging soundscapes. The inclusion of two live bonus tracks, "Jump In The Line" and "You're A Good Ol' Wagon, Baby But You Done Broke Down," recorded at Duende on December 13, 2012, adds an extra layer of excitement and spontaneity to the album.
Amendola's drumming and Hunter's seven-string guitar work create a rich and textured sound, making "Pucker" a standout in the jazz fusion genre. The album's cover painting, "Meerschweinchen, #117" by Cornelius Volker, adds a visual dimension that complements the music's avant-garde spirit. Whether you're a longtime fan of Amendola and Hunter or new to their work, "Pucker" offers a captivating exploration of their collaborative genius and a testament to their enduring musical partnership.
