Vince Seneri (on the Hammond B3 Organ) - The Prince’s Groove (review)
Vince Seneri (on the Hammond B3 Organ) - The Prince’s Groove (Prince V Records; PVR-007)
reviewed by Michael Macomber
There ain’t nothin’ like the real thing, and Hammond B3 master Vince Seneri is as real as they come. On The Prince’s Groove he not only grooves — he also swings, sways, and lays down some truly funky sounds. This marvelous set of Seneri-arranged standards and originals is bound to make any Hammond B3 fan stand up and shout.
His rendition of Johnny Mercer and Jerome Kern’s “Dearly Beloved” is smokin’ beyond description. When Seneri goes to town on those keys, he is so deep in the pocket, he ain’t never comin’ out. Seneri’s own “The Stinger” is equally compelling, like the theme to a spy movie that hasn’t been made yet. Randy Brecker’s sinewy trumpet work is super cool.
Seneri’s “Sway” arrangement, on the other hand, is super hot. Trading licks with flutist Dave Valentin and guitarist Paul Bollenback, Seneri paints a picture of a South American jazz club at midnight. The Seneri penned “Passion Dance” is a Latin number worthy of “Sway,” with all the sizzle and spice that statement implies.
The band takes it down a notch for an exquisitely romantic “Nearness Of You.” Houston Person provides the lyrical voice with his oh so evocative sax style. Seneri caresses the keys gently in the background, stepping back to let the gentleman do his thing. Paul Bollenback has a fine solo on Richard Carpenter’s “Walkin,’” groovin’ with all the intensity of Mr. Seneri himself.
For lovers of the Hammond B3, owning Vince Seneri’s The Prince’s Groove is a must.