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WALTER  BEASLEY GO  WITH  THE  FLOW N-CODED MUSIC 4239-2

Walter Beasley - alto and soprano saxophones & vocals with various backings including: Phil Davis - drum & keyboard programming, Jeff Lockhart, James L. Walker, Wayne Jones, Rick Watford, Casey Smith - guitar, Baron Browne, Webster Roach, Ronnie Garrett - bass and various vocalists.

        1. Go With The Flow

        2. West Hamilton Groove

        3. Precious Moments

        4. Suddenly

        5. All I Want

        6. My Pleasure

        7. Brother

        8. ( Do I Ever ) Cross Your Mind

        9. Let Me Watch You

        10. Don't Know Why

        11. Over And Over

    Walter Beasley has been reasonably established on the so called smooth jazz scene for several years now. However, I must admit that this disc represents my first extended exposure to his work. I must say at once that this has been a totally enjoyable experience. Unlike so many other players who, for the sake of convenience, are placed in this category, the emphasis with Beasley is strongly on the jazz part with only a nod towards the smooth.

            The easiest way to describe Beasley's saxophone playing is to say that he is quite obviously a disciple of the late great Grover Washington Jr. His main instrument is the alto but on some selections he proves to be a most adept soprano player. The general sound is soulful and, wherever necessary, quite forceful. Perhaps Beasley is not as facile as Washington, but as can be heard on the last track in particular he has a well managed and impressive turn of speed at his command. As is the case with many of his contemporaries ( Gerald Albright immediately springs to mind ) Beasley favours arrangements which are as much vocal features as instrumentals - the difference being that many of the leads are by Beasley himself who possesses a good "Soul" style voice.

            There is a wide variety of material hear -"All I Want" is an interesting rap tune featuring Abria Smith . "Suddenly", a version of which was a chart hit and " Don't Know Why" are both excellent ballad performances and the are many other high spots on this album. In fact there are no weak numbers and the whole is redolent with top quality performances. Walter Beasley is a worthy follower in the footsteps of Grover whilst have a strong personal identity at the same time . I recommend this disc wholeheartedly.

            Dick Stafford.

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