(B2B Music)

San Francisco-based organist Brian Ho first fell in love with playing the organ when he became its full-time practitioner at an African-American church at 16 years old. Today, the thirty-something is a bona fide groover, as his debut release Organic makes very clear. The project features Ho among a solid group of musical sidemen deftly conveying the subtlety and power of the Hammond engine, with a repertoire that ranges from funky jams to bluesy ballads. The song selection is a balance of original compositions and nicely done covers, from classics to pop. Joining him on the set are drummer Lorca Hart, saxophonist Oscar Pangilinan and guitarist Calvin Keys, a veteran of his craft, who has played alongside the likes of organ greats like Jimmy Smith, Jack McDuff, and Dr. Lonnie Smith, among others. Such experience in his corner can’t help but contribute to the musical acumen Ho demonstrates on this inaugural effort. This is a fantastic recording kickoff for a rising star of the keys.