by Scott Yanow
Throughout most of his career, tenor saxophonist Plas Johnson has worked in the R&B and rock & roll field, adding his virile tenor to many sessions and uplifting the music without receiving that much credit. However, in 1975-1976, the busy studio musician was recorded on two occasions as a leader in jazz settings by Concord, and the results show that he is also a superior jazz player. Johnson, teamed up with keyboardist Mike Melvoin, guitarist Herb Ellis, bassist Ray Brown, drummer Jake Hanna, and Bobbye Hall on congas for this date, puts plenty of soul and swinging ideas into such songs as &Georgia on My Mind,& &Please Send Me Someone to Love,& and &Parking Lot Blues.& The music is accessible, fairly basic, and fun.