We all know James Taylor his his own style of playing. On his new album, American Standard, he plays classics in his own style. I’d like to get your opinion of what arranger style might best mimic his quasi-Latin rhythm.

https://youtu.be/vbeQqteag_k
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I'd use the pattern that fits "Tears in Heaven"

My keyboard is still in the van, but when I bring it in later today, I'll figure it out. Sounds like one of the Rumba styles I have onboard of my S-950.

Gary

On the Yamaha the Cool8beat variation A at 100 works.

Regards,

Jerryghr

Loved Teach Me Tonight since I first heard Connie Stevens do it in the late 60's(loved her, too, but that's another story.

James is GREAT. Sounds like he hit a few clinkers here, but they could just be slightly different interpretations of the original lead line.

Whatever. It's great to hear these kinds of songs today.

Russ

Love JT and do some of his songs...but my favorite arrangement of Teach Me Tonight was by the DeCastro Sisters. Using the Acoustic Jazz style in the SX900 is the way I am doing it these days.
Ed

Jerry hit it on the money. Cool 8 beat style nails it.

All the best,

Gary

A bossa would work.

Also try an “un plugged “ style at 99 bpm . Maybe add some Latin Percussuon multi pads to add more flavor.

Bossa, or a slow cool Cha Cha.
Simplicity is beautiful, and he does that very well.

Thank you, one of ma favorites, John C.

I think it was Uncle Dave who once said he only needs a few styles a night to play almost any song on an arranger. So maybe try one of his few select "go to" styles.

What were they again Dave?

EZ 8

It all started with this ... (probably try #2 to start)

As a side note I just discovered the great guitarist John Pizzarelli collaborated on this album with James Taylor. Interesting title too “American Standard” when I was a kid growing up we had an American Standard sink our home.

LOVE John Pizz!