The return of the organ to prominence in the 1990s has allowed
Greg Hatza, who recorded two albums for Coral in the late '60s, to make a full-fledged comeback. For his second Palmetto date,
Hatza generally avoids blues (other than "Move Over" and the heated "Jump Street") in favor of more challenging chord changes, but fits very securely into the organ tradition. Tenor saxophonist
Ralph Lalama and guitarist
Paul Bollenback have plenty of concise solos, drummer Gary Jenkins is excellent in support, and the selections (nine
Hatza originals plus Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come") swing quite nicely. The catchy "Rio Nights," a funky "Mr. Nasty," and the soulful jazz waltz "Sister Jason" are among the high points of this recommended disc. ~ Scott Yanow