For years John Scofield has played musical chairs, so to speak, as any great jazz artist will do. Lately his work has been on the edges of his seemingly boundless range, from the exceptional union with MMW on 1998's A Go Go and the ambient funk of 2000's Bump (which features Mark De Gli Antoni of Soul Coughing). Now he has returned to his roots with the release of Works for Me. Scofield leads by example, as he has done so many times before, keeping the band in a straight line towards the goal that is the finished piece. The band he utilizes so amply on Works for Me could hold their own with anyone, but Mr. Scofield, as he has done before, brings out the best in each. Special mention should go to drummer Billy Higgins ("a jazz group is only as good as its drummer") whose staccato snare work turn the music on its edge and whose forceful beats are the perfect compliment to Mr. Scofield's growling guitar licks.
- Charlie Kuller
(3.5)