Brian Auger & The Trinity - Definitely What!

Brian Auger & The Trinity — Definitely What! 

Recorded during that unique period in the late ‘60s when jazz, blues and rock musicians found common ground in London's vibrant subterranean clubs, 1968s Definitely What! was the second of the run of the four ground-breaking Trinity albums.

Showcasing Brian Auger's open-minded approach and his masterful organ & piano skills, the album whips up a rich blend of jazz, R&B, psychedelic touches and soulful grooves, complemented by the tight, dynamic rhythm section of Dave Ambrose (bass) and Clive Thacker (drums).

After the previous year's Open (1967) with its "Summer of Love" feel and its melting pot of Mod R&B, cover versions of U.S. soul hits led by Julie Driscoll's inimitable vocals, Auger considered Definitely What! as his first solo album, and so he travelled deeper into jazz territory, balancing original pieces with audacious covers. Tracks include versions of Mose Allison's "If You Live" and of Wes Montgomery's "Bumpin' On Sunset."

"I got a letter from Wes's wife," recalls Auger, "saying that it was Wes' favourite version. Can you believe that, Wes's wife wrote to me!"

Elsewhere, we find a dramatic re-arrangement of The Beatles' "A Day In The Life" complete with orchestral strings and a punchy horn section, alongside a supercharged version of Booker T & The MGs' "Red Beans & Rice." "George Bruno Money" was dedicated to Auger's drinking pal of the era, Zoot Money, and "John Browns Body" both combine prime Hammond jazz with the very British surrealist humour that was in vogue at the time. The title track goes further "out" in a sprawling instrumental piece rooted in experimentation. Auger himself specifically states in his sleeve notes that his concept "lies along a straight line drawn between pop and jazz and aims at the 'fusion' of both elements" — "fusion" at that time was not even a recognied musical term, further reinforcing Auger's credentials as an innovator.

 

1. Day In The Life

2. George Bruno Money

3. Far Horizon

4. John Brown's Body

5. Red Beans And Rice

6. Bumpin' On Sunset

7. If You Live

8. Definitely What!

Be the first to write a review for this item OR just rate it