Celebrate spring with TOBIN MUELLER’s thrilling new arrangement of Herbie Hancock’s first hit, “Watermelon Man.” Featuring Grammy-winning guitarist Paul Nelson, NYC’s Birdland Band director David Dejesus (flute/saxes), Netherland’s Ruben de Ruiter (congas, bongos), rising drummer Isaiah Schmidt, and visionary musician Tobin Mueller (arrangement/keys/bass). Official Video for Tobin Mueller’s “Watermelon Man” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_coDH-hJTsQ More psychedelic and fuller than the original, utilizing a larger band, Mueller’s “Watermelon Man” illustrates through fusion jazz the growing throng of morning street vendors, adding players and rhythms until it becomes an urban cacophony, then it slowly recedes into dusky blues as day turns into night. David Dejesus’ opening and closing flute solos are a true highlight.
Tobin Mueller’s use of two fretless bass lines drives the arrangement. Paul Nelson’s guitar work weaves in and out in unpredictable ways, adding constant spice, blending rock and jazz. The combination of Ruben de Ruiter’s conga and Isaiah Schmidt’s drumming gives the tightly arranged piece a sense of evanescent improvisation. “Watermelon Man” is originally from Herbie Hancock’s 1962 hard bop album, Takin’ Off. Released when he was 22 years old, the track is imbued with elements of bebop, R&B and blues. Hancock also recorded a more contemporary version of the track in 1973 that appeared on his album Head Hunters. And now Tobin Mueller has created his own arrangement and interpretation of Hancock’s fusion jazz classic for 21st century audiences. Tobin Mueller’s next featured album release will be Fragments (Deluxe Edition), coming out at the end of May and featuring Kenny Cash, Woody Mankowski, and others!
