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Album Review: Brian Baggett Trio- Groovin’ and Swingin’ at Green Lady Lounge

November 6, 2022 William Brownlee

Original image by Plastic Sax.

The death of Eddie Van Halen two years ago was devastating. The celebrated musician’s family, friends and fans continue to mourn the loss.  Had the guitar hero lived past 65, he may have joined the venerable list of rockers who turned their attention to jazz in their golden years.

Van Halen’s impact is increasingly pervasive.  While he never approached the realm of the “big three” living jazz guitarists- Bill Frisell, Pat Metheny and John Scofield- Van Halen nonetheless made an impact on the sound of scores of jazz guitarists in recent decades.  

Brian Baggett is a prime example.  The Kansas City guitarist’s new album Groovin’ and Swingin’ at Green Lady Lounge possesses a sharp metallic tinge.  Whether the influence is direct or filtered through other guitarists, Baggett’s playing contains strong echoes of Van Halen.  

Rather than corrupting the form, Baggett’s perspective enlivens the music.  What might otherwise have been a perfectly fine but typical mainstream jazz recording is elevated by jagged edges.  Bassist Ben Tervort and drummer Taylor Babb provide a rock-solid foundation for Baggett’s invigorating approach.  

Baggett is a central component of the robust calendar at Kansas City’s most popular jazz club.  And on the surface, Groovin’ and Swingin’ at Green Lady Lounge is true to its title.  The album captures the venue’s jubilant atmosphere.  Jazz purists who treasure the classic jazz guitar work by the likes of Grant Green and Wes Montgomery are likely to embrace Baggett.

Yet even the album’s prettiest passages contain a hint of a rock and roll sneer.  An appreciation of Van Halen hits like “Runnin’ with the Devil” isn’t necessary to enjoy Groovin’ and Swingin’ at Green Lady Lounge, but the sinfully good album may be appreciated most by guitar fans with expansive ears.


(The Kansas City venue will host the album release show for Groovin’ and Swingin’ at Green Lady Lounge at 6 p.m. Monday, November 6. The $5 cover charge includes a CD version of the album.)

Tags Kansas City, jazz, Brian Baggett, Taylor Babb, Ben Tervort, Green Lady Lounge, Pat Metheny
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