Ralph Pace Jr. Pace Jr's "Because of You" by: Miles Overn The Count Pacie Jazz Trio's "Because of You" does take you on a fascinating journey, so perhaps it's appropriate this disc closes out with their rendition of Pat Metheny's "Travels." Dipping into pop, jazz standards and original compostiions, this trio delivers a panorama seemingly shot through a lens shared more deeply than just viusally. There is a warmth unaffected by occasional firey solos. There is an unhurriedness in that centers the quickest bebop tempo treatments. As well, there is a marvelous mixture of technique, taste and tone emanating from each musician across the entire offering, regardless of stylistic approach. Mike Gallaher quite simply delivers some of the prettiest guitar playing to make its way to disc in quite some time. The man has more than enough technique, but it is tempered with a genuine musicality and soulfullness that allows his lines to speak as if sentences spoken with compassion and intent. Prime examples are Pat Martino's "A Portrait of Diana" and Pat Metheny's "Travels". Bassist Woody Lingle coaxes out of his fretless electric the woodiness and richness that makes the instrument, in the hands of a master, soar while simultaneously providing a solid base for his bandmates to improvise over. Whether laying down walking bass lines, playing unison parts, providing fills or soloing, Lingle does everything one can hope for from the intstrument. Bandleader Ralph Pace Jr. supports Gallaher and Lingle without every overplaying a bar, let alone a tune. His sensitivity mixed with creativity and feel allow the others to both play freely and solo with complete support but to also come together for ensemble parts that possess groove, swing and feel. "Because of You" is a wonderful offering from talented and versatile players that doesn't just belong on your CD shelf, but in your regular listening rotation.

Ralph Pace Jr

CD/DVD Reviews:

Pace Jr's "Because of You"

Interviews:

Partial Discography:

Because of You 2008

Partial Gigs List: