Tom Kennedy shines with the complete mastery he brings to his electric and acoustic basses in Just for the Record, his third solo release. 

Many years ago, another musician described Tom Kennedy to me this way: "He's one of the best bass players on the planet." This CD is further proof of that considerable talent with the artist blazing on tracks like the lead-off "Breakneck" (along with Hall of Fame drummer Dave Weckl), both making it sound easy. Bass-playing fans of the acrobatic technique Tom is known for will eat it up. Everyone else will listen and just wonder HOW he does it ..... 

But here's the thing to know about Tom Kennedy: More than incredible mechanics on display, he is a strongly intuitive musician who brings the bass to life in a way that travels beyond providing the underpinnings of a composition. It's a something extra that moves the bass into the melodic, and it creates amazing moments. Listen to track 6, "Since Then," and you'll hear what I mean -- this bass is having a conversation that we, luckily, are privy to. 

Tom's artistic gift is, at the core, a deep musicality. That ear is also on display in the production of this CD. The styles, tempos and moods, ranging from fusion to funk to bop and latin, provide a satisfying and interesting mix arranged and produced to be creative and wonderfully listenable. As for the company Tom keeps ... world-class and well-lauded musicians, including the aforementioned Dave Weckl (throughout) and internationally known guitarist Mike Stern (of Miles Davis' group), with whom Tom frequently tours, join him on this project. The title track, written by Tom, is a funky mid-tempo groove that includes solos by Stern, Weckl and talented saxophonist Nathan Childers. Stern plays on "Pumpkinette," too. I'm also loving pianist Bob Albanese, who has composer credits on "Joyful Noise," a beautiful tune that moves with compelling energy. Jazz violinist Sarina Suno adds some lightning on "Quase." Super solid and lovely support on the project also comes throughout from pianists/keyboardists Charles Blenzig and Jay Oliver.

Excellent credits all around .... but in the end, do I love listening to the music? I do! Every song. Hit play on this one -- a great recording, thoroughly recommended.
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'Just for the Record' is an amazing project.  Tom Kennedy's 'breakneck' bass riffs, and his unique way of bring the electric bass into the 'solo instrument' realm, are well represented.  Tom has the ability to make a studio recording sound live.  The legendary talents of Mike Stern and Dave Weckl, along with several others, make this CD a great addition to anyone's collection.
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