From the beginning to the end of this masterpiece, the listener is treated to the tasty artistry that is contained within each tune.  Delicate shadings blended with mind altering complexities tossed in with groovy rhythms makes for a great time!  These songs bring to the table what our souls crave to devour; sweet, deep, smooth listening.  Man, it'll make your head spin, son!
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This CD represents a coming together of four of the most talented sidemen in the New Orleans musical scene, including two who come from strong musical backgrounds. Drummer/vocalist Gerald French is a third generation musician, whose father is bassist/vocalist George French and whose grandfather was the late bandleader, Albert "Papa" French. Keyboardist Paul Longstreth's father, Rev. Paul Longstreth, Sr., is also an accomplished pianist and his sister Kimberly is a talented singer about town. Along with Kerry Lewis on bass and Joel Hamilton on guitar, they comprise Abstract and this-their debut CD-is a worthy effort. All but one of the ten songs on this CD-Billy Preston's 1976 hit, "Bad Case of Ego"-are originals from the pens of one or more of the band's members. Their subdued, smooth jazzy sound is reminiscent of Incognito, minus the horns. Nearly all of the tracks are very tightly controlled but with ample opportunities for each of the quartet's members to stretch their musical legs and solo. Especially Hamilton who displays equal virtuosity on acoustic and electric guitars. Likewise Longstreth who is equally proficient on acoustic and electric pianos and organ. And, with French's drumming and Lewis' bass cementing a solid foundation for the group, Winning Hand is a winner!
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