The secret is out. Rod Fleeman’s longstanding weekly matinee gig at Green Lady Lounge has long been one of Kansas City’s hidden gems. The release of Saturday Afternoon (Live at Green Lady Lounge) reveals the magic of the furtive Saturday afternoon tradition to the world.
The guitarist has spent decades as one of Kansas City’s most in-demand sidemen. He’s best known for his collaborations with Karrin Allyson, Marilyn Maye and the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra. Incredibly, Saturday Afternoon is Fleeman’s first album as a leader.
In one of the absorbing videos in which he discusses his life and career with Ken Lovern, Fleeman says “I want to sound like I’m from Kansas City.” He’s succeeded. Saturday Afternoons is 52 minutes of unadulterated Kansas City swing.
Fleeman, bassist Gerald Spaits and drummer Todd Strait perform six original compositions with jubilant informality. While Fleeman disdains flash, his solos prove that tastefulness needn’t be devoid of color. His wit and imagination are displayed throughout.
Many readers were baffled when Fleeman was named Plastic Sax’s 2021 Person of the Year. His low profile- exacerbated by the lack of a recording as a leader prevented the guitarist from receiving his due. Fleeman gets an overdue turn to shine on the radiant Saturday Afternoon.