Joe McBride - Texas Rhythm Club (2000)

Texas Rhythm Club is the latest offering from vocalist and pianist Joe McBride and it should help erase some of the anonymity surrounding the talent on the jazz scene in the Lone Star State. The CD includes a wide variety of musical styles ranging from the groove and spice on "Hot Chili Pepper" to smooth jazz on "White Rock." The Texas Rhythm Club, which is also the name of McBride's band, consists of Martin Walters on bass; Wayne DeLano on soprano, alto, and tenor saxophones; Sean McCurley on drums; Carl Hillman on acoustic bass; Rodney Booth on trumpet; Greg Waits on trombone; Bryan Brock on percussion; and Todd Parsnow on guitar. Together this aggregation gives the listener some great melodies, riffs, rhythms, and vocal maturity. "Everything Remains the Same" is an expressive example of Joe McBride's multiple talents. Altogether, these 11 themes are exceptional and exemplify the diverse qualities Joe McBride brings to his compositions. This CD also provides a vivid contrast to his stellar work on Smooth Africa. ~ Paula Edelstein