Sunday, July 21, 2013

Essential Tracks: "White Rabbit" - Album: "White Rabbit", George Benson, 1972

Essential tracks highlights tracks that arguably should be found somewhere in any serious jazz collector's library. This segment is also meant to inspire readers to seek out foundational tracks from the various sub-genres of this great music.

"White Rabbit", title track of this 1972 release on CTI records


There are a couple generations that only know George Benson for his vocals. He is still, arguably, the greatest bebop guitarist alive. This was the CD that catapulted his popularity and showcased massive guitar skills. The CTI label was hot, and George was one of it's brightest stars. His cover of the Jefferson Airplane hit "White Rabbit" showcased the strength of the CTI lineup, while taking the song into another galaxy. The star studded cast included Ron Carter on bass, Billy Cobham on drums, Hubert Laws on flute, Airto on percussion, and Herbie Hancock on piano. Orchestral arrangements by Don Sebesky.

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