Jazz

Scott Sawyer, "Go There" - 3 1/2 Stars

If you know Raleigh guitarist Scott Sawyer from only his jazz gigs and tours with jazz singer Nnenna Freelon, "Go There" (Doll) opens a different door. Welcome to Scott Sawyer, the funk, rock, blues -- and jazz -- player. A comparison might be made to guitarists John Scofield and Bill Frisell, who also cast a wide net.

With a preponderance of Sawyer tunes, the album is all groove underneath. Drummer Kenny Soule locks in with the Burbridge brothers -- electric bassist Oteil from the Allman Brothers band and organist and flutist Kofi from the Derek Trucks band -- to produce the hippest of backbeats and syncopation. Acoustic bassist Ron Brendle spells Oteil on the slow, bluesy "Slow Down, Freight Train," and there's a hint of mystery in Sawyer's chords and amplifier effects -- but the groove remains righteous.

As enticing as the beat is, there is also a fine sense of proportion in the ensemble dynamics (check the powerful buildup of the 10-minute "I Wish You Would") and solo pacing. On the bona fide slow blues "Go Home," Sawyer takes the less-is-more solo approach, but even on more open-ended tunes, he remains focused and to the point.

The tone of the group is always just right. Soule's drum sound exudes funk. Oteil's bass, ranging from slinky ostinato figures to bubbling Jaco Pastorius-like solo runs, matches Kofi's organ colors and strategically placed entrances and hits. Kofi's flute is also used to good effect on "I Wish You Would" and the "Caravan"-like "Dark Lady."

If you're looking for a pure, hard-line jazz album, this is not it. But if you think it represents a compromise, think again. It's its own species.

"Go There" is available at www.abstractlogix.com.