Richard "Groove" Holmes

Richard "Groove" Holmes has got to have one of the best names. When I was just first started looking for records I always kept my eyes open for a "Groove" Holmes record. I'm not sure where I heard or read his name, but I was convinced I needed a Groove Holmes record. I came across a couple of them and sadly they never held up to his name. Like lots of organ players Holmes's work tends to swing more than be funky. But, "New Groove" does not disappoint with the funkiness. Maybe, that is what the "New Groove" refers too. So check out the opening bass line and Bernard Purdie drum beat on "Red Groove" and tell me it is not Funky. Those congas could be funky all by themselves. Then take a good listen to the soulfulness on the vocal track "No Trouble on the Mountain." Too bad the liner notes don't list a vocalist because that dude can get down. I don't think it's Groove Holmes. It definitely does not sound like he looks.

Red Onion by Richard "Groove" Holmes from New Groove
No Trouble on the Mountain by Richard "Groove" Holmes from New Groove

Two More by Vernon Garrett

Last time I posted about Vernon Garrett I promised I'd post some more of his music. I'd never heard of Vernon Garrett until I picked up that first 45 I posted. Then within a week I came across another 45 of his. It's weird how records kind of come up in spells. You'll be searching for a record for years and then eventually come across like three copies in one week. Them record Gods sure like playing with the minds of us mortals.

Little Black Woman by Vernon Garrett on Kapp Records
Long Lonely Nights by Vernon Garrett on Kapp Records