Scofield hits the road with Charles tribute

RAY CHARLES was one of American music’s greatest artists, and John Scofield is one of the contemporary jazz world’s finest guitarists. It’s hard to argue either point. The real question is whether there is common ground between these two seemingly disparate figures.

Scofield’s new CD, “That’s What I Say: John Scofield Plays the Music of Ray Charles,” comes up with some pretty impressive answers. A guest lineup including Mavis Staples, Dr. John, Aaron Neville and David “Fathead” Newman virtually guarantees that the spirit, style and message of Charles would remain front and center -- and it does.

Taking this tribute on the road is an entirely different issue. Scofield’s quintet showcased the Charles program Tuesday night at the El Rey without the benefit of the album’s star power and the results were disappointing, to say the least.

Vocals fell to trombonist-singer Meyer Statham, whose warm, baritone voice was completely out of the loop in terms of the Charles style. On at least one number -- “Hit the Road, Jack” -- the tune was pitched inappropriately for Statham, obliging him to sing alternating lines either too high or too low.

Add to that the failure of bassist John Benitez and drummer Steve Hass to capture either the characteristic Charles grooves or the propulsive energy required for the occasional straight-ahead passages. As a result, principal soloists Scofield and organist Gary Versace had little support during their rare opportunities so stretch out improvisationally.

Scofield’s album obviously is a commercial success, and it’s understandable that he would support it with a tour. But remembering the extraordinary quality of his playing in groups such as his trio (with Steve Swallow and Bill Stewart) and the all-star ScoLoHoFo band, it’s hard to be enthusiastic about the creatively tepid music of his Charles road band.