WDNA Album of the Week: Brian Ho Trio – “Bridges”

An Album Review by Michael Valentine, 88 Jazz Place

It’s often said that the Hammond B3 organ is an instrument for the bold, and on “Bridges,“ Brian Ho proves himself to be one of the bravest. This album is not just a showcase of Ho’s technical prowess but a testament to his deep understanding of jazz organ’s rich history. From the first note to the last, “Bridges” is a masterclass in balancing tradition with innovation, firmly placing Brian Ho among the greats of the genre.

The album opens with a strong sense of purpose, immediately establishing Ho’s command over the B3. His original compositions like “Essence” and “Ellisin’” are filled with lyrical beauty and complex harmonies that pay homage to jazz legends while carving out a space that is distinctly Ho’s own. The influence of greats like Larry Young and Dr. Lonnie Smith is evident, yet Ho’s unique voice shines through, making each track a fresh contribution to the jazz canon.

Ho is joined by two stalwarts of the jazz world, guitarist Paul Bollenback and drummer Byron “Wookie” Landham, both of whom bring their extensive experience with organ trios to the table. Their chemistry with Ho is palpable, particularly on tracks like “Silver’s Serenade” and “Just In Time,” where the interplay between the musicians creates a dynamic and engaging listening experience. Bollenback’s guitar work is as soulful as it is precise, while Landham’s drumming provides the perfect rhythmic backbone, pushing the music forward with relentless energy.

Bridges by Brian Ho Trio: A Journey Through the Depths of Jazz Organ Mastery

“Bridges” is an album that doesn’t just celebrate the past; it actively pushes the boundaries of what a jazz organ trio can achieve. The inclusion of standards like “Alone in the Morning” and the Gap Band’s “Yearning For Your Love” alongside Ho’s original compositions serves to “bridge” the gap between the old and the new, creating a cohesive narrative that is both familiar and innovative.

Particularly noteworthy is Ho’s rendition of “Saving All My Love,” a song that has been covered by many but is given new life through Ho’s thoughtful arrangement and the trio’s impeccable execution. It’s a fitting end to the album, leaving listeners with a sense of completion, yet yearning for more.

In a time where jazz is constantly evolving, Brian Ho’s “Bridges” is a reminder of the power of the organ trio format and its continued relevance in the modern jazz landscape. This is an album that deserves to be heard, not just by fans of the Hammond B3 but by anyone who appreciates great music. As the WDNA Album of the Week, “Bridges” stands out as a significant release that will undoubtedly leave its mark on the jazz world.

Join the Conversation

Join us this week on WDNA as we delve into “Bridges,” our Album of the Week, and celebrate the remarkable contributions of Brian Ho to the world of jazz. Connect with us on social media and let us know which track resonated with you the most.

Explore More

To delve further into the world of Brian Ho, visit his Home page where you can purchase the album and discover more about this incredible artist. Congratulations to Brian Ho and his trio for crafting such a remarkable album. I look forward to hearing more from them in the future.

Stay tuned for more album reviews and updates from WDNA, your home for serious jazz.

By Michael Valentine, 88 Jazz Place at WDNA – Your trusted voice in the jazz community.

Brian Ho – organ, Hammond B3
Paul Bollenback – guitar
Byron Landham – drums

Record label: Cellar Live
Released date: July 19, 2024

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Each week, WDNA music director, Michael Valentine shares his album of the week. Michael’s picks often focus on new jazz releases, but sometimes dip into history with notable and classic releases worth revisiting.