Low Standards

Low Standards demonstrates the mastery of Jeff Berlin on the electric bass guitar.  Although most people consider the instrument one that typically provides background support, Berlin's electric bass leads the trio of ultra-talented musicians on this album.  Even at the age of 60 and releasing what is rumored to be his penultimate work, Berlin shows no signs of slowing down.

Following the release of 2010's High Standards, the aptly titled Low Standards consists of lesser-known jazz compositions.  Joining Berlin this time around are drummer Mike Clark from The Headhunters and Richard Drexler who plays the piano and the acoustic bass.  That’s right, Drexler switches between instruments for this album – in the middle of the songs!  The seamless work of everyone involved makes Low Standards sounds like a live gig instead of a prerecorded session.

Early in the album the band covers three tracks from the songbook of Wayne Shorter – “E.S.P.,” “El Gaucho,” and “Fee Fi Fo Fum.”  The fast paced “E.S.P.” is the first opportunity for listeners to hear the “Drexler-switch” between instruments.  Believe me, the switch is amazing each and every time you hear it.  “El Gaucho” has a darker, more mysterious feel to it.  Low Standards is full of great solo work, but the Drexler solo on “Fee Fi Fo Fum” is worth going out of your way to hear.

The trio also covers Carla Bley’s “Vashkar” where Berlin restrains himself a bit and allows Drexler to lead on the piano.  On the Benny Golson penned “Whisper Not” Berlin gains some attitude and jams on his bass with swagger.  Closing the album is perhaps the best track of all, “James,” where all the sounds meld together perfectly.  Towards the end of the tune, Berlin and Drexler do an awesome solo exchange that concludes the album on its highest note.

Many people mildly interested in Jazz probably don’t know where to begin.  Jeff Berlin’s Low Standards is as good a starting point as any.  His masterful work will make a jazz fan out of anyone and perhaps influence listeners to research the original artists on this collection of standards.  Berlin is making his debut with Random Act Records where 10% of sales are donated to charity.  Enjoying some great jazz and helping out charities?  Now that’s a win-win.