70 Strong

Legendary studio drummer Steve Gadd’s credits range from James Brown to Paul Simon, Steely Dan to Kate Bush. Here on his second album with his jazz quintet, Gadd’s tasty beats set the tone for these groove-laden originals—think John Scofield and/or MMW—with his best drum riffage coming on the funky “Sly Boots” and the tricky “Foam Home.” Several band members contribute originals with the soulful “Duke’s Anthem” also being a highlight. The band also do a rocking version of Jan Hammer’s “Oh Yeah?” and cover “Freedom Jazz Dance" (and throw in other Eddie Harris licks as well).