Description
Bay Area jazz guitar legend Calvin Keys released his debut solo record, Shawn-Neeq, in 1971, and it remains one of the most beloved albums on the Black Jazz label. But that record was mere prelude for 1974’s Proceed with Caution; this time around, the arrangements were more complex, the instrumentation more diverse. In short, a quantum leap forward; indeed, as Calvin tells Pat Thomas in his liner notes for the release, “I started going to the Los Angeles School of Music studying orchestrations and I was putting it to use!” And he recruited the band to fulfill his ambitious musical visions to their fullest, including legendary drummer Leon “Ndugu” Chancler, fellow Black Jazz mainstays Henry Franklin on bass and Kirk Lightsey on keyboards, and Charles Owens (Horace Tapscott, Buddy Rich, Terry Callier, John Mayall) on sax and flute. Despite being hugely collectible, Proceed with Caution has never been reissued on vinyl before!
"Calvin Keys is one of the most exciting and talented young guitarists to hit the jazz scene in recent year. As evidenced by his mastery of the instrument in his first album, he is to be reckoned with in years to come.
The key to all of this is Calvin's ability to take a direction and to exploit it to the fullest in his own inimitable manner. On this, his second album on the Black Jazz Label, he leaps forward in time ans sets a pace that others will now have to follow.
it would be unfair to single out any tune and call it "BEST" for each ear is served and satiated. Exceptional work by each of his sidemen makes manifest Calvin's, as well as their own, musical gifts.
Calvin Keys is an innovator destined for greatness !"
Chuck Siler
West Coast Editor
The Black Collegian/Expressions
![Calvin Keys - Proceed With Caution (1974) [full album]](media/video-thumbnail/123669-oafgqdk_gue.jpeg)
