Album Review: Major Influence from Graham Dechter

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Album:  Major Influence
Artist:  Graham Dechter
Label:  Capri Records
Website:  https://www.grahamdechter.com
https://www.caprirecords.com

The smooth jazz trimmings of guitarist-bandleader Graham Dechter are aurally gratifying on his latest release Major Influence from Capri Records.  Geared for cultivated audiences, Dechter is accompanied by Tamir Hendelman on piano, John Clayton on bass, and Jeff Hamilton on drums.

Influences of straight-ahead jazz are lodged in the rhythmic pattering of "Moonithology," as Hamilton's perky brushed strokes are pleated into the bopping pulse of Clayton's bass and Hendelman's twirling keys.  Dechter's guitar licks ignite a sizzle in the strutting riffs along "Minor Influence," imbuing the track with a bluesy smoothness.  Elements of smooth jazz are heard in the serene atmospherics of "Pure Imagination" and the bouncy guitar licks of "Reference."  The bopping beats of "Bent on Monk" pervade a Thelonious Monk-like shine, as the rapid quakes traveling along "Billy's Dilemma" flex an Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers-style elasticity.

Being the third release from Dechter as a leader, Major Influences cements his place as a torchbearer of the straight-ahead jazz and smooth jazz idioms.  Dechter has appeared with the likes of Wynton Marsalis and Freddie Cole, and has performed on recordings for Michael Bublé, Leon Russell, and Charles Aznavour.  Dechter is a star among stars.

Musicians:
Graham Dechter - guitar
Tamir Hendelman - piano
John Clayton - bass
Jeff Hamiton - drums

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