(October 1, 2018) From the first sounds of Mike LeDonne’s organ opening, it is clear that Tony Adamo’s newest song, “Sonic Henderson,” is unlike just about anything else you’ll hear on the radio. And that’s what the unique Mr. Adamo has always done. His spoken word over jazz pieces have won for him a special following around the world, a following that he has rewarded with albums every few years.
When reviewing his 2015 album, I labeled him as “a true anachronism: a performer who is authentically ‘cool’ in a timeless, almost reckless way that almost no popular artist today can match.” And he continues his predictably unpredictable ways on his newest album, Was Out Jazz Zone Mad, on Ropeadope Records.
But back to “Sonic Henderson,” a tribute to legendary saxman Joe Henderson. Adamo attacks the song more frenetically than we typically hear from him, and he gets its all in as he lays out the beauty of Henderson’s storied playing, as ”the man who’s got the plan.” Adamo’s band, consisting of Mike Clark on drums, Jack Wilkins on guitar, and the spirited organ work of LeDonne, is completely on point throughout.
Check out “Sonic Henderson,” and welcome back Tony Adamo.
By Chris Rizik
Tony Adamo – “Sonic Henderson”
