Listen Up

AMG Review of Listen Up

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

Pianist/vocalist Les McCann's first recording since a major stroke in early 1995 found him a weakened player, utilizing a second keyboardist on most selections, but still a powerful singer. McCann and his Magic Band are augmented by a quite a few notable guests on this set, including pianist George Duke, guitarist Dori Caymmi, organist Billy Preston, guitarist David T. Walker and tenorman Ernie Watts; steel drummer Andy Narell is featured on "Trinidad." Surprisingly, McCann only sings two numbers (a tender "When I Fall In Love" and "Listen Up"), and his role is fairly minor on the instrumentals, but there are some strong moments from each of the guests. Other highlights include "Someday We'll Meet Again," "A Little 3/4 For God & Co." (a McCann song from the early '60s), and "Bumpin'." Overall, this is a good mixture of jazz, a bit of funk, R&B and the blues.