Bill Connors, Tom Kennedy, Dave Weckl – Step It

Bill Connors, Tom Kennedy & Dave Weckl – Step It

Released in 1989, Step It brings together three exceptional musicians at the peak of their creative powers: acclaimed guitarist Bill Connors, virtuoso bassist Tom Kennedy, and legendary drummer Dave Weckl. The result is a superb showcase of jazz fusion, blending technical brilliance with expressive compositions, infectious grooves, and first-class improvisation.

Known for his groundbreaking work with Return to Forever, Bill Connors combines lyrical guitar playing with intricate harmonic ideas, while Tom Kennedy's fluid bass lines and Dave Weckl's world-renowned drumming provide a dynamic rhythm section that effortlessly shifts between complex time signatures and powerful grooves. Step It is an album that rewards attentive listening while remaining melodic and accessible throughout.

The album opens with Lydia, setting the tone with expressive guitar work before the expansive A Pedal explores atmospheric textures and sophisticated interplay between the trio. The title track Step It delivers energetic fusion with dazzling musicianship, while Cookies closes Side A with a lively, groove-driven performance.

Side B continues with Brody, followed by the melodic Twinkle and the powerful Titan, where each musician has room to demonstrate their exceptional technique. The album concludes with Flickering Lights, a thoughtful and atmospheric finale that perfectly encapsulates the trio's musical chemistry.

A must-have for fans of Bill Connors, Dave Weckl, jazz fusion, contemporary jazz, and instrumental virtuosity, Step It remains an outstanding example of late-1980s fusion, combining technical excellence with memorable compositions and superb ensemble playing.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Lydia – 3:35
2. A Pedal – 8:48
3. Step It – 4:33
4. Cookies – 4:46

Side B

1. Brody – 4:15
2. Twinkle – 5:58
3. Titan – 6:37
4. Flickering Lights – 5:07