George Cables: Bluesology

Long noted for his rich melodic sensibilities, which he artfully folds into Latin rhythms, Bluesology finds George Cables and his trio (Jay Anderson, bass; Billy Drummond, drums) putting their spin on the standards “How Deep Is the Ocean,” “Easy Living,” “There Is No Greater Love” and “Come Rain or Come Shine.” Cables seems to be an incurable optimist, and his cheery ruminations on the latter tune, to cite just one example, are a tonic to the soul. His imaginative, protean approach to music consistently rewards the listener. “Easy Living,” for example, is the ne plus ultra of a relaxed performance while his own captivating “Ebony Moonbeams,” with its shifting tempos and moods, displays his impressive compositional and interpretational skills.

Cables gives Randy Weston’s “Hi-Fly” a rich reading while transmuting it from a waltz to 4/4 without losing the tune’s heart. The title track (by Milt Jackson) also gets the benefit of Cables’ unique vision, as he subtly alters the theme. Gillespie’s “A Night in Tunisia,” Brubeck’s “In Your Own Sweet Way” and Cables’ own Latin “Voodoo Lady” complete the song list of this compelling and rewarding disc.

Originally Published December 1, 2000