Len Boogsie Sharpe – Bridge Over Troubled Water

Len ‘Boogsie’ Sharpe – Bridge Over Troubled Water

2004 has begun on a bright note with the release of recordings by ace pannists. “Bridge Over Troubled Water” is one although, correctly, it is a re-reissue of Len ‘Boogsie’ Sharpe’s 1997 solo CD “Moods of A Genius”. The earlier title is more indicative of the artistry of displayed on the CD. The thirteen tracks are in a different sequence than before and the overall pan sound is more crisp and modulated to the other instruments.

This recording has many notable features: Boogsie’s calypso arrangement of “How Great Thou Art” and the jazzy improvising of “I Had A Little Monkey” spawned many ‘me too’ pan recordings. Superblue’s “Ethel” and “Sa Sa Est”, a la Sparrow, demonstrate a superb balance of pan and voice. The Lydian Singers under the direction Pat Bishop add the dimension that sets this compilation apart. It put down the formula that others were to follow judging by how common it is now to have pan jazz recordings with voices.
“Honey Child” and “Sunny Isle” are two other standouts. The first, for its relaxed pace in a small combo setting with a strong bass that does not overpower the pan melodies. And the second for the true pan solo – Boogsie and the pans, alone; it is sunny, intricate and calm. Taken as a whole “Bridge…” is cool, composed, and Caribbean. [eCaroh/Ron]