One Night in Houston

AMG Review of One Night in Houston

Jonathan Widran
All Music Guide

Well known jazz keyboardist Mullins joins forces with ex-Crusader saxman Felder to break free on the keyboardist's jam inferno which was recorded live to two track in L.A. with Larry Kimpel (bass) and Ndugu Chancler (drums). Wherever the setting, Mullins combines his frenetic synth wizardry and after hours "jazz jazz" to create an intriguing pastiche of compositional ideas. The liner notes say he was out to take chances, and sans overdubbing, he and his cohorts go for broke. Mullins is most fun when putting on the crazy "Polka Dot Dress" or exclaiming "Quick! Call the Note Police," but he can also let things simmer after the musical tremors quiet down. His tenderness lightens the load and the sweet improvs he creates could someday be standards in their own right. Eclecticism can be a hit and miss proposition, but here the hits keep on coming.