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Stanton Moore Trio – Emphasis! (On Parenthesis)

Drummer, bandleader and all around cool guy, Stanton Moore and his long time pal’s guitarist, Will Bernard, and keyboardist, Robert Walter are once again together on the Stanton Moore Trio’s latest release Emphasis! (On Parenthesis). As this trio has plenty of experience working together; their ability to respect each others space within the context of the song, is what makes them so special.

Stanton Moore, the pride of New Orleans, is well known for his superb work with Galactic, Corrosion of Conformity, and with guitar aficionado Charlie Hunter in Garage a Trois. He also has hugely successful instructional books and DVD’s that focus on New Orleans style rhythms for drum set. I can tell you that his book “Take it to the Street” is a must for those interested in the roots of funk.

Each track on Emphasis! (On Parenthesis) is titled with its own parenthetical statement which, as I understand, Moore has historically titled many of his compositions in this manner throughout his career. I’ve read other critics analysis as to how his parenthetical titles possibly open a door (or a window) to interpretation of the track. You can draw your own conclusions, but might I suggest you drummers focus on listening to how Moore can seamlessly execute beautiful grace notes, incredible buzz rolls, flams and the ability to completely lock in, that make most us older drummers wish we spent more time (and listened to our teacher’s more) developing these elements.

Moore also delivers plenty (as always) of power throughout Emphasis! Over the years that I’ve listened, I’ve often thought that if an opportunity ever arose on the kit for a band known as Led Zeppelin, Stanton Moore would be one of the few most qualified.

Some of my favorite tracks include track one, (Late Night at the) Maple Leaf which sets the tone for what you can expect. The very funky (Here Come) The Brown Police, and Thanks! (Again), are packed with an energy and freshness, yet always respecting the historical fundamentals of the style.

Emphasis! is not just great drumming, and yes, Moore is the leader however Will Bernard and Robert Walter have a major impact, and contribute equally in making this record great. It’s that wisdom and humility that make musicians like Stanton Moore great band leaders. Emphasis! (is a great ride)!

Tags: Charlie Hunter, Emphasis, Galactic, gararge a tois, Stanton Moore, Stanton Moore Trio, Taking it to the streets