Jazzwise, (Andy Robson), November 2011
(4 stars) A real treat from Rollins...of course the funk is never far away...the results are irresistible.
(4 stars) Attention to detail, tight delivery and immaculate grooves are common factors...the title track is a blues-soaked highlight.
(4 stars) Fine trio set...Rollins' paints a broader canvas of melody and texture than this lineup ought to permit.
CD Description
For 25 years trombonist Dennis Rollins has played at the forefront of UK jazz, funk and pop as virtuosic sideman to such stars such as Maceo Parker, Courtney Pine, The Brand New Heavies, Blur, Tom Jones and as an award-winning leader in his own right. His latest project is the Velocity Trio, a brilliant marriage of refined contemporary jazz arrangements with simmering grooves which is clearly one of Rollins' strongest musical statements yet. A previous winner of the 2006 BBC Jazz 'Best Band' Award in 2006, the Parliamentary Jazz 'Education' Award; Ronnie Scott's 'Best Trombone' Award and others, Dennis Rollins' latest group will appeal to multiple generations of jazz, funk and world music fans. His new band also includes Hammond organ virtuoso Ross Stanley and fiery drummer Pedro Segundo and the Trio makes its recorded debut on 'The 11th Gate', for U.S. label Motéma. Personnel: Dennis Rollins (trombone), Ross Stanley (Hammond organ), Pedro Segundo (drums)