Speaking of James Brown...

Thanks to a friend who is a reporter at a great metropolitan newspaper, I got a sneak preview listen of the new double CD coming out next week by legendary funky sax man Maceo Parker.

Maceo of course was a major cog in the JB Horns, then moved on to the George Clinton flying gasbag, but after starting a very promising solo career in my opinion he made a big mistake by drifting into the rap/hip-hop genres.

He has wisely decided to go back to what he does best. HIGHLY recommended!

Here's an early review:

IT'S A NEW DAY: Although funk trailblazer Maceo Parker has played alto-sax with some of the greats, the question lingers: How great would he be today if he'd started out as a solo artist rather than backing up label favorites? His newest double-disc narrates his history while it celebrates the artistry of two musical giants, Ray Charles and James Brown.

Is this the same Mr. Parker who played on the original recording of "I Feel Good" with James Brown? And is this the same Mr. Parker who was a card-carrying member of George Clinton's Mothership in the 1970s? In a word, yes.

Full review here:

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/ent/stories/DN-cdbrief_willie_0129gl.State.Edition1.175f69d.html