Album Info
| Artist: | George Benson |
| Album: | Giblet Gravy |
| Released: | Spain, 2024 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Along Comes Mary | |
| Written-By - Almer | ||
| A2 | Sunny | |
| Written-By - Hebb | ||
| A3 | What's New? | |
| Written-By - Haggart, Burke | ||
| A4 | Giblet Gravy | |
| Written-By - Benson | ||
| A5 | Walk On By | |
| Written-By - Bacharach | ||
| B1 | Thunder Walk | |
| Written-By - Ousley | ||
| B2 | Sack Of Woe | |
| Written-By - Adderley | ||
| B3 | Groovin' | |
| Written-By - Brigati, Cavaliere | ||
| B4 | Low Down And Dirty | |
| Written-By - Benson |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
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Description
George Benson's album "Giblet Gravy," released in 1968, is a fascinating blend of jazz, soul, and pop influences that showcases the guitarist's exceptional talent and versatility. This album marks a significant point in Benson's career as it captures his transition from a pure jazz guitarist to a more mainstream artist, a path that would eventually lead him to become one of the most successful crossover artists in music history.
"Giblet Gravy" is notable for its eclectic mix of tracks, which include both original compositions and covers of popular songs. The album opens with the title track, "Giblet Gravy," a lively and upbeat number that sets the tone for the rest of the record. Benson's guitar work is both fluid and intricate, demonstrating his ability to blend technical proficiency with soulful expression. The track "Walk On By," a cover of the Burt Bacharach and Hal David classic, is another standout. Benson's interpretation is smooth and sophisticated, with his guitar taking on a vocal-like quality that adds a new dimension to the song.
One of the most interesting aspects of "Giblet Gravy" is its production. The album was produced by Creed Taylor, a legendary figure in the jazz world known for his work with artists like Wes Montgomery and John Coltrane. Taylor's influence is evident in the lush arrangements and polished sound of the album. The use of strings and brass adds a rich texture to the music, complementing Benson's guitar and enhancing the overall listening experience.
The album also features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Herbie Hancock on piano, Ron Carter on bass, and Billy Cobham on drums. This ensemble of top-tier jazz musicians contributes to the album's dynamic sound and provides a solid foundation for Benson's guitar work. Their contributions are particularly evident on tracks like "Thunder Walk" and "Along Comes Mary," where the interplay between the musicians creates a vibrant and engaging musical conversation.
Critically, "Giblet Gravy" was well-received upon its release. It was praised for its innovative approach and Benson's ability to bridge the gap between jazz and popular music. The album's success helped to establish Benson as a major force in the music industry and paved the way for his later achievements. While "Giblet Gravy" may not have achieved the commercial success of some of Benson's later works, such as "Breezin'" or "Give Me the Night," it remains an important part of his discography and a testament to his artistic growth.
In terms of cultural significance, "Giblet Gravy" represents a period in the late 1960s when jazz musicians were increasingly exploring new sounds and genres. Benson's willingness to incorporate elements of soul and pop into his music was indicative of a broader trend in the jazz world, where artists were seeking to reach wider audiences and experiment with different musical styles. This album is a reflection of that era's spirit of innovation and boundary-pushing.
Overall, "Giblet Gravy" is a compelling album that highlights George Benson's extraordinary talent and his ability to adapt and evolve as an artist. It is a must-listen for fans of jazz and anyone interested in the development of crossover music during the 1960s. The album's blend of technical skill, emotional depth, and genre-blending creativity makes it a standout work in Benson's illustrious career.
