Title: Introducing Kendall Carter
Artist: Kendall Carter
Label: Lladnek Music
Formats: CD, Digital
Release date: March 30, 2021

Kendall Carter is making a name for himself throughout the Midwest as a jazz organist, recognized for his mastery of the Hammond B3 as well as the SK-2 and A100 models. A recent graduate of the Jamey Aebersold Jazz Studies Program at the University of Louisville in Kentucky, Carter earned a master’s degree in jazz composition and arranging, which he puts to good use on his solo debut release, Introducing Kendall Carter. Accompanying him on this trio project is guitarist Dave Stryker and Indianapolis drummer Kenny Phelps, two musicians who have performed with the organist at local clubs and jazz festivals.

Inspired by past masters of jazz organ such as Jimmy McGriff, Shirley Scott and Charles Earland, Carter also has deep roots in gospel and currently serves as Minister of Music at The Greater Faith Church of Deliverance in Louisville. These many influences are reflected in his performance style, as the trio runs through standards such as “Afro Blue,” “Blame It on the Boogie,” and Bill Wither’s “Lovely Day.” Carter also contributes “Punjabi Affair,” an original tune with a mid-tempo groove.  The album concludes with the swinging “Blues for Kendall,” an original by Stryker that serves as a wonderful showcase for the talents of the young organist. No doubt we will be hearing more from Kendall Carter following this promising introduction.

Reviewed by Brenda Nelson-Strauss