Joe Augustine – Cool Today, Jazz Tonight
Cool Today,
Jazz Tonight
Joe Augustine
(1201 Music – 2001)
by S.H.Watkins, Sr.
Joe Augustine doesn’t fit into any of my ‘pat’ categories. Take elements of George Winston, Herbie Hancock and Ramsey Lewis, shake them up with a dash of Joe Sample and you come close to describing the Augustine experience. His style is lively and interesting, and his skills polished and confident.
Groove Attitude, the first track describes the feel of this CD well… jazzy groove with a touch of attitude and Wes-Montgmery soul. Joe really shows of his chops on the cover of Night Train, handling the intricate runs with a natural rhythm. Same for the classic Fever and Diana Krall’s famous Peel Me A Grape, both presented with Augustine’s unique flair and styling, as is Love For Sale.
The title track is a smooth, swinging-yet-laid-back piece meant for lolling around on a summer afternoon. Joe’s Calypso-style romp through the Sonny Rollins classic anthem St.Thomas is another enjoyable ride among the many found here. Hats off to Augustine and guitarist Denny Jiosa for an interesting and lively CD. Once you’ve heard Joe Augustine play, you’ll know his style when you hear it as surely as you do that of Satchmo or Ramsey Lewis.
