Voodoo Dogs - Voodoo Dogs

Jan

11

Voodoo Dogs - Voodoo Dogs

≡ Category: 2000s, Don't Bother, Fusion, Jazz Funk, Reviews |
≅ Written by: Michael Kydonieus

DON’T BOTHER

Rating:

Now, why would I review a group like Voodoo Dogs in the first place? Well, I’m always on the lookout for new music. Voodoo Dogs is organist Larry Golding’s band. I liked his work with John Scofield on the Groove Elation and Hand Jive dates, so I thought that there would be a reasonable likelihood that I would enjoy Voodoo Dogs.

Oh, well.

The problem with Voodoo Dogs really isn’t the musicianship, which is just fine. The problem is that the focus of the band is slick, Quiet Storm style jazz. Goldings set out to make crossover music that might appeal to folks who are into modern urban R&B makeout grooves. That means no edge whatsoever is allowed. The melodies and improvisations are bland. Whenever the sound can be sweetened with vibes or something like that, you can be sure it will be.

Extensive listening to Voodoo Dogs is guaranteed to drop your IQ by 10 or 20 points.

I can’t believe that Larry Goldings actually likes this music. It strikes me as a cynical ploy to make money. Here’s my advice, Larry — if you want to make a money, start a roofing business. Don’t play jazz.

Now, I wouldn’t have minded so much if Goldings had done a greasy grooves date, the way his idol Jimmy Smith did on the 70s classic Root Down, but this limp-wristed R&B bull is an embarrassment.

Voodoo Dogs is a complete waste of recording tape and talent. Shame on you, Larry!