By
Charles A. Smith
Brian Bromberg's new CD, "Compared To That" is a classic in the making that's done by a master who is surrounded by others of equal skill, but on different instruments. The new 10 track CD, which will be released on June 5th by the Grammy nominated bassist/producer/composer/arranger who has played with everyone who's anyone in the world of music, is absolutely phenomenal. Never has a bass sounded so good! With jazz royalty artists like Alex Acuna, Gannin Arnold, Charlie Bisharat, Randy Brecker, Vinnie Colaiuta, George Duke, Bela Fleck, Mitch Forman, Larry Goldings, Gary Meek, and Tom Zink recording the album live in a two day jam session with Bromberg, the CD was destined for greatness and did not miss the mark. "If Ray Brown Was A Cowboy" is a powerful testimony to Bromberg's abilities on the upright bass, and well worth the listen. The solo is very well done, and it's interesting to note how a bassist can play the dominant role in a piece without being overbearing. You'll find folk jazz, classic jazz, smooth jazz, jazz fusion, and everything else you can think of or would like to hear on this album. The hybrid of styles and samples is amazing, and Bromberg's range in both playing and composing is exceptional and unique. "Hayride" is another great cut which incorporates instruments that are unconventional in jazz, such as the banjo, but with great results. The bottom line is, "Compared To That" is simply incomparable. Surrounded by a group of musicians who hold up their end of the jazz bandwagon, Bromberg is free to let his creative juices flow, and he does it with style and finesse. This is the music of a man who is at the top of his game.
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