By: Vince Lewis
Duke Robillard - Wobble Walkin'
Duke Robillard has been a prominent figure in the American music scene since the 1960s. He has been nominated multiple times for Grammy awards and is truly a chameleon when it comes to his capabilities in many styles and myriad of musical interests. From traditional blues to mainstream jazz and swing, Robillard has solid footing and an authentic approach, which makes him a pleasure to hear. This new recording, entitled Wobble Walkin’ encompasses both bluesy jazz guitar and the music of Tin Pan Alley.
Robillard is joined by Brad Hallen on upright bass and Mark Teixeira on drums, and together, the trio takes the listener through a fun sixty seven minutes of music. The title track “Wobble Walkin’” is a medium shuffle with a catchy simple melody penned by Robillard. His guitar tone is slightly edgy and perfectly suited to the intent of the composition. “I Can’t Believe You’re In Love With Me” immediately follows and is plainly stated in a single note line over a solid walking bass from Hallen. Both of these, and really all of the selections on the album give the rhythm section a chance to show their skills as accompanists and adequate solo space as well.
“They Can’t Take That Away From Me” is played with the traditional stops in the opening melodic statement. The tempo is relaxed but driving and enthusiastic in its presentation of this Gershwin classic standard. “Sunday Morning” is a funky Latin tune also written by Robillard. It is definitely reminiscent of the 1960s jazz popularized by Gabor Szabo and Grant Green. Robillard also contributes original compositions “Jesse’s Blues” and “Skippy’s Dream.”
“Gee Baby, Ain’t I Good To You” adds the female vocal styling of Mickey Freeman before Robillard plays a fine solo on the bridge section. “All Of Me” swings hard from start to finish, and it is evident that the trio is enjoying every minute of the recording session. Other standards include “Things Ain’t What They Used To Be,” “You’d Be So Nice To Come Home To,” “If I Had You” and “Back Home Again In Indiana.”
The funk returns with a very solid treatment of “Hi-Heel Sneakers,” and Hallen and Teixeira provide the perfect underpinning to Robillards string bending foray throughout his solo.
This effort will be a welcome addition to the library of Robillard fans. It will also be a good introduction to a fine and versatile player for those who have not heard him in a trio setting, or any setting for that matter. His studio experience with major artists has made him a recognizable figure, and his small group work as a leader serves to reinforce his excellent reputation.
