Introduction
'Banded Together' is an album from 1994 by the American jazz guitarist Lee Ritenour, including a diverse mix of musical styles and cooperations. Ritenour, likewise called Captain Fingers, is a legend worldwide of jazz guitar, and his comprehensive discography covers a career of more than 40 years. The album showcases a variety of musical influences, varying from conventional jazz and blend to R&B and funk.
Collaborations and Featured Artists
One of the most notable elements of 'Banded Together' is the outstanding list of guest musicians and collaborators. The album highlights the sheer extent of Ritenour's connections within the music market and showcases the skills of several renowned artists. Amongst the significant factors are Phil Perry, David T. Walker, and Ndugu Chancler.
Phil Perry, an experienced R&B singer, provides his smooth and expressive vocals to a number of tracks, giving them an unmistakable R&B ambiance. Guitarist David T. Walker, best known for his deal with artists such as Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and Diana Ross, includes his distinct touch to a few tracks, while famous drummer Ndugu Chancler, who has worked with artists such as Quincy Jones and Santana, provides the rhythmic structure on a number of tunes.
Tracks and Styles
'Banded Together' includes an overall of 11 tracks, each with its unique sound and environment. The album opens with the groovy, up-tempo "Party Time", featuring Phil Perry's emotional vocals and a catchy brass area. This tune sets the tone for the rest of the album, blending R&B, jazz, and funk elements effortlessly.
"Find Your Way", another partnership with Phil Perry, showcases Ritenour's skills as an author and arranger. The track features a smooth R&B groove and layers of keyboards, guitars, and singing harmonies that create a comfortable, laid-back environment.
"Mr. Briefcase", among the album's instrumental tracks, allows Ritenour to display his technical expertise as a guitarist. The tune combines jazz and rock aspects, driven by a pulsating bass line and Ritenour's detailed guitar work.
"Midnight Lady", featuring the guest vocals of Dee Bridgewater, is a sultry, slow-paced ballad that highlights the tenderness and psychological depth of Ritenour's playing. The song features a delicate interplay between Bridgewater's soulful voice and Ritenour's delicate guitar chords, stimulating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability.
"Banded Together" also explores world music with tracks like "South Campus", which includes African rhythms and singing chants, providing the tune an exotic and uplifting energy.
Reception
The album received a warm reception from critics and fans alike, who applauded Ritenour's ability to effectively blend several categories and his excellent partnerships with prominent artists. 'Banded Together' was viewed as an evolution in Ritenour's style, moving further far from his standard jazz-fusion roots and welcoming a more varied series of musical impacts.
The album's smooth fusion of jazz, R&B, funk, rock, and world music components demonstrates Ritenour's ongoing growth as an artist and a musician, declining to be restricted to a single genre or design. 'Banded Together' serves as a testament to Lee Ritenour's continuous relevance and significance within the music market, showcasing his adventurous spirit and remarkable musicianship.
Artist: Lee Ritenour
Lee Ritenour. Learn about his journey from session musician to Grammy-winning artist in our bio.
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