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February 24th, 2007

Earl Carter - My Paradise
4 stars out of 4

Earl Carter made our list for 2005's Top 10 CD of the Year with the release, "495".  The Baltimore based guitarist continues his soulful-style jazz and he provides us with his newest CD entitled, "My Paradise". Carter starts right where left off with some outstanding guitar riffs and high-quality arrangements. Some highlights on the CD are "Jammin' at the Alley", and my personal favorite, "Smooth Ride Home". He even surprises the listener with a cool version of the 70's hit, "A Horse With No Name" by the rock group, America. If you haven't heard of Earl Carter, then check out this CD or his previous release. Both will keep you thoroughly entertained for hours.  Amazon.com will be releasing this CD in April, 2007. 
 

David Mora - Conga Love

3 stars out of 4

David Mora is a percussion musician, specializing in Latin Jazz.  His latest CD, "Conga Love" has Afro-Cuban roots that surround it's tracks.  This CD is filled with lots of Latin rhythms, light vocals and lots and lots of congas.  There are some bright spots, preferably on the track, "Topsy II" or "the theme from Inspector Gadget".  It gave a different spin on a familiar tune. There are some moments when the CD does lose a bit of it's touch with the track, "What you won't do for love.".  I thought it could have used a bit more fine tuning as it didn't quite get my attention.  Overall, its a good recording, designed to satisfy those who enjoy Latin beats.  Good CD!

Bill McGee - Chase the Sunset

3½  stars out of 4

McGee's latest release can be described as "cool smooth"!    His musical arrangements have been brought up a notch with tracks "Stop, Look, Listen" and "The Groove".  It's a change to have strings. He also does additional covers of past and current R&B classics, such as Kenny G's "I Like the Way You Move" and a soulful rendition of The Dramatics "In The Rain".    It sounds refreshing and it's quite a joy to listen to.  This CD is gaining much accolades from the music industry and should give his career a much needed boost.   Well recommended!

Mike Arroyo - My Jazzy Mood

3 stars out of 4

This was a CD originally recorded in 2003 in Brooklyn, NY.  One track that stands out was "Initial Flight" the track brings in the right mix of Latin, Jazz and some Gospel.  There's also some blues mixed in, as well, with the track "Mira al Cielo".  The CD is a little rough around the edges, but it still packs a punch.  Overall, the native of Puerto Rico put together a crafty release that sounds pretty good.  Consider purchasing this release.   

If you listen to these two CD's, you'd swear it was Lee Ritenour,  but it not.  He's a highly talented, but obscure guitarist who will grab your interest. 

Dirk K - Urban Standards, Volume II

4 stars out of 4

Dirk K is a German born musician who started playing at the age of 16.  He traveled to the United States and worked with some of the finest musicians in the business.  Over the years he's released over 10 CD's.  His latest  are music compilations that profile he years of skill.  "Urban Standards, Volume II" takes on music from the 50's and 60's, but he adds his own unique touch.   His guitar playing really shines on such classic tunes as, "Fly Me to the Moon" and "Black Orpheus".   One track that blew me away was his slick rendition of "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" from "The Wizard of Oz."  It was a really unique version that no one else could have put together.  This CD will introduce new listeners to songs that they may not have ever heard before, thanks to this outstanding guitarist.

Dirk K - My Romance

3½ stars out of 4

Dirk K continues his fine selection of distinctive music.   This time he ads selections from "the Great American Songbook".    He uses the same arrangements as he used on his previous release.  It's a marvelous set of renditions from old favorites.  "K" selected some great tracks on this CD, including "Body & Soul", "The Nearness of You" & "April in Paris".   If you're searching for something different from the same old standards, give this CD a try.  Well Recommended!

Peter DuVal Lee – It’s a New Day
4 stars out of 4

I discovered Peter's work about two years ago by chance.  I reviewed  the Rhode Island based guitarist's first to releases simultaneously and thought they were very well regarded.  I thought his third CD release, "Contemplation" was one of my favorite CD's of 2005.  Now, he puts together the same formula for his 4th CD entitled, “It’s a New Day.” If you’re not familiar with Lee’s style, it’s a combination of music similar to contemporaries Lee Ritenour, Wes Montgomery and George Benson.  I enjoyed the first track, "Crossroads", which reminded me of a drive down New York's wine country.   Other tracks that stood out for me were "It's Alright" and "Closure".  Lee has pulled off another winner with this release!  It's a nice touch to his repertoire that should be discovered to all to seek out new artists to discover. 

Greg Chambers – City Lights
3 stars out of 4

Greg Chambers’ is a saxophonist based out of Gilroy, California.  He released this debut CD.  His sax playing is not overpowering, and that may have been a letdown on this recording.  The CD as a whole has, at times, some deep spots. The track, “I Burn for You” plays with a flamenco style. I expected a little more power that links it to the genre. Then the CD changes tempo with a rock guitar riff on the track, “Full Throttle”.  I just wasn’t sure where the recording was going to take me. It just seemed out of place in the release and better suited for something more rock based. There are a few good tracks, though.  One that captured my interest was the track, "This Friday".   Overall, its entertainment value is there.  Enough to grab interest.

Patrick Yandall - Samoa Soul

3½ stars out of 4

Here's a nice, blend of funk, jazz and smooth.  Yandall doesn't play around with many of the tunes here.  He gives lots of soulful grooves on his latest CD, "Samoa Soul".  His music is similar to the style of fellow guitarist, Lee Ritenour.   He does some cover tunes such as the Christopher Cross' classic, "Sailing" and Tom Browne's "Funkin' For Jamaica".  But he delivers the goods on his original stuff like the title track.  If you're looking for a good mix, then consider this CD.  Recommended!

Dan Siegel - Departure

3½ stars out of 4

Dan Siegel has been delighting Jazz audiences for many years.  His latest CD gives his fans more to cheer about.  The CD entitled, "Departure" includes many of the industry's finest musicians, including Brian Bromberg, Norman Brown & Grant Geissman.  The CD starts with a moving latin-style track, "Across the Sea", a tune that reminds me of driving down the Pacific Coast Highway.   It then moves to the familiar guitar of Brown with the tune, "Street Talk".   This really isn't much of a "Departure as much as it is his familiar style of piano jazz we're accustomed to hearing.  It's fresh, lively and exquisite!   This is classic smooth jazz piano that all will enjoy!

February 2nd, 2007

Nyee Moses - Nyee Moses

3½  stars out of 4

Nyee Moses dropped me a note via email, saying that she would like to have me review her debut CD.  I obliged and I'm glad I did.  This is a pretty cool release!  Nyee has a beautiful sound.  Her voice is soothing and sensual, a nice touch to the recording.  Her music selections are both intriguing and provocative.  A couple of the highlights were the tracks, "Love is a Lion" & “Between Me”.  She's surrounded herself with some of the best in the business, including Grammy winners Neil Case and Wayne & Brian Jobson.  The result is a debut album that will capture you soul.  It's a very innovative release that will please many.   

Marilyn Scott - Innocent of Nothing

2½ stars out of 4

Songstress Marilyn Scott has been entertaining jazz audiences for the last 15 years with her soft style of singing.  That style of singing has brought her a Grammy nomination in 1998. 

After reviewing a compilation CD of her's two years ago, she finally has her first new release in years.    With the help of well established musicians such as George Duke, Brian Bromberg, Patrice Rushen, Russell Ferrante & Jimmy Halsip of the Yellowjackets.), "Innocent of Nothing" takes a different turn away from her previous releases and dives head first into a more raw style of jazz singing.  Her rendition of Bob Dylan's, "It's Alright, Ma" loses it's punch from the original recording.   Overall, this release certainly isn't what we've been used to from Scott.  The CD's saving grace is the final track, "A Change".  It brings us back to what we expected from her.  Despite her usually sultry voice, it's not enough to save this release.  The CD is  somewhat of a disappointment.  Marginal thumbs down.  

Kenny Carr - Turn the Page

3½ stars out of 4

We reviewed his previous CD with a well recommended review.   His latest release gives us different styles of music.  The track, "Remember When" gives us a guitar style much like Craig Chaquico.  While the track, "Highway One" harkens back to the music of George Benson's classic "Breezin'".     This is a solid recording that is sure to give fans of jazz guitar a refreshing choice.  Recommended!   

Ronald Turner and the Fashion Statement - Love Prevails

4 stars out of 4

His last release two years ago put his group on our top 5 list of favorite albums.  Now he returns with a soulful new CD, "Love Prevails".   He continues to develop the same style of music formula that made his last CD such a surprise hit.  I really enjoyed the names of some of the tracks.  For example, Turner creatively named tracks, "High School Hips", Mama Hoochee" and personal favorite "Sugar Daddies on Section 8".   According to his liner notes, he considers his music "Nu-Jazz".  I'm not quite sure that is the case as much as it sounds like Pieces of a Dream.  His tracks are more a mix of R&B & Jazz and not Electronica (i.e. - St. Germain, Jazzanova), the true meaning of Nu-Jazz.  That should not lead the listener into a false sense of buying something it's not.  The CD is fresh, innovative and original.    Turner comes up with another winner!   Buy it! 

Philip Wesley - Comfort & Joy

3½  stars out of 4

Philip Wesley's solo piano gives Christmas music his own touch of the season with his release, "Comfort & Joy".  In addition to some traditional favorites such as "Away in a Manger" and Joy to the World",  he added some original tunes he hopes will be Christmas classics.  The tracks "In the Eyes of a Child" and the title track are very comparable.  Next holiday season, consider purchasing this pleasant collection of Christmas melodies. 

Dave Dunlop – The Hang
3½ stars out of 4

Dave Dunlop is a Trumpeter from Toronto whose music is filled with much promise and direction.  His latest CD called "The Hang" charges the listener with a sound that is fresh and lively!  Dunlop’s music will remind you of current trumpeters Chris Botti and Rick Braun.  His music compositions are concrete and solid.  This best track is "Rolling Hills" which really sounds Botti-esque!   It's funky and cool!  You'll be impressed by it's production value.  It's well worth the effort!  Recommended!

Everett B. Walters - Always High Reaching

3½  stars out of 4

This is another album from one of the MySpace family.  The album is his debut and it's a good one!  The CD receives help from pianist Brian Simpson on the track, "Always High", a funky groove with lots of bass.  There are also smooth moments with the tracks "Rainbow Beach" and "Funky Ain't It".  There are a few vocals that I wasn't too keen on, but not enough to bring the CD down, but overall it's a very impressive debut for a future smooth jazz star!

Wayne Gratz - Soul to Soul

3½ stars out of 4

New Age pianist Wayne Gratz gave us his 2005 release for review.  It's a beautiful mixture of tranquil electric and acoustic piano that is serine and refreshing.  The CD starts off with the track "Arise", a fitting open that will remind you of the beginning of a new day!  Other tracks that really stand out are, "A Peaceful Path" with it's soothing musical texture.  Picture yourself in a spa relaxing with this music and you'll be amazed.  It's a nice find!

Lynn Maas - Wingless Angel

3 stars out of 4

Here's another one of our MySpace friends.  The Seattle-based singer's first CD is a folk style release called "Wingless Angel".  Maas reminds me of singers I've heard during the early days of KKSF in San Francisco.   Singers such as Eliza Gillkyson, Mary Black and Marti Jones.  She has a voice that is soothing and abundant.  I enjoyed the track, "Soul Rendezvous" with a country style like flavor.   A few of the tracks wear thin after a while.  But its Maas' vocals that give enough weight to give this a recommendation.    

Jamhunters - Jamhunters

4 stars out of 4

The duo is originally from Copenhagen,  Denmark and specializes in acid jazz in the style of Count Basic and format's founder, Ronny Jordan.   I requested this CD from the group with a hunch from what they've posted on their MySpace site.   I was hooked with the track, "Close Your Eyes" and wanted to review it further.  My, my, my!   This CD is everything I thought it would be!   Bold, precise, hip, daring!    What I also enjoyed about the CD is that it didn't forget it's jazz roots with tracks "Relax" and "Goodbye".  They blended perfectly with the rest of the CD.  If you love to jam and don't mind being too relaxed, this is the CD for you!  It's one of the best of the year!

August 1st, 2006

Westbound – Miles Away
3 Stars out of 4

Westbound is a talented musical duo from Italy who inquired about receiving a review from us.  They’ve created a CD that can be described as a European tourist’s trip across the United States.  The CD is filled with plenty of light sounds and good quality.  The first track, "Smooth" is their best work.  There are two versions of the song on the CD with the second being the radio edit, which I really didn't think was necessary for the release.  Another track that caught my ear was "Ivan".   Listening to it will remind you of fellow guitarists, Peter White or Russ Freeman, the track really flows well.   There are a few downturns, but not enough to be a disappointment.    Overall, its good traveling music for a wine tour.  
 

July 13th, 2004
Konstantin Klashtorni – Led By You
4 stars out of 4

Konstantin Klashtorni was one of the first CD’s I reviewed in early 2004 on my fledgling radio station. I thought his debut CD was one of the best recordings I’ve ever heard and was on my Top 5 list for that year. Like our radio station, Klashtorni has grown from his humble roots. Originally from Ukraine, he’s settled in the Netherlands for his music career. His latest CD, “Led By You”, picks up right where he left off, providing his listeners with some of the most memorable smooth jazz around. Some of his highlights include “Back It Up”, which starts the CD off in style. He also ads vocals to the release with the track, “Haven’t Got the Heart”. This is a high maintenance, fully charged recording that will signal the calling out of a future star in jazz music.

July 12th, 2006
Lisa Hilton – Midnight in Manhattan
4 stars out of 4

Lisa Hilton has had some great CD's reviewed in the past.  She was also recognized by us in 2004 for her CD, "Jazz After Hours".  She’s back with her latest release, “Midnight in Manhattan”! The CD can be described in words such as, “Beautiful!” “Eloquent!” “Romantic!” “Sensual!” Her smooth delivery on classics such as Henri Mancini's "Moon River" & "Over The Rainbow" from the Wizard of Oz gives the listener a pleasant touch.  She goes original with the title track along with 6 other tunes which complement her style.  After giving her last CD review a ½ star less, Hilton has recovered to release her best CD yet!  You'll be impressed!   

July 1st, 2004
Rod Tate – My Tribute
3½ Stars out of 4

Tate put together a compilation CD with music performed by some all-time great Jazz and R&B artists. Aside from a couple of very minor glitches, this is a great recording. I would have preferred to mix the variety in the selections.  Instead of 6 songs in a row by Vandross, I would have added Art Porter and Grover Washington Jr’s tracks in between to put together better continuity. I also would have liked to have read his reasons for the selections and how he felt in the liner notes. Despite that minor glitch, Tate still packs a punch. He’s an outstanding sax player!   

Paul "Sequence" Ferguson - From The Heart

3 stars out of 4

"Sequence" is a guitarist from Staten Island, New York who has been releasing innovative jazz music for the last couple of years.  He's also been on our daily playlist via the Live365.com.  He's released a new CD that I can describe as mix between Acid Jazz & Fusion.   "From The Heart" has some moments of sheer abstract composition.   It also has a good production value.  The recording is Grade "A".  However, I did find most of the recording too complex.  It's not a bad CD though.  If you enjoy Acid Jazz, consider this release. 

July 13th, 2004
Richy Kicklighter – Moving Skies
3½ Stars out of 4

I’ve been waiting for this CD for the last couple of months. The label’s publicist finally asked if I ever received it and I said, “No, I never did.” I finally received a copy of his CD and it's well worth the hassle.  "Moving Skies" is a collection of music that should be on the Weather channel.  Kicklighter’s guitar style is light and easy, though not too heavy handed.  The best track on the CD is the title track.  You can really hear the comparisons to fellow guitarists, Larry Carlton & Craig Chaquico.   It's a treasure of a CD. 

July 14th, 2006

Ron Boustead – Blend
3 stars out of 4

One of the first CD’s I ever bought was Gregg Karukas’ “Sound of Emotion”. That was 10 years ago. The title track was written & sung by a composer named Ron Boustead (Dave Koz was the sax player on the recording.). I first heard the song on KKSF in San Francisco back in 1992 and I’d been looking for the album ever since. I finally ordered the CD from a record store in Augusta, Georgia in 1996. Fast forward to 2006. When I opened my MySpace account this year, who would be requesting to be my friend than none other than Ron Boustead. Small World!  With that said, Ron provided me with his latest release, “Blend”. Boustead is accompanied by his longtime pianist, Gregg Karukas on this recording.

July 12th, 2006

Chris Greene & New Perspective – Jazz
4 Stars out of 4

Chicago area Saxophonist, Chris Greene and his group, "New Perspective" described their music on their website as, "an acoustic organic jazz with a garage band mentality."  The simply titled, "Jazz", their latest CD reminds me of the days of jazz fusion in the 70’s with great music from jazz super groups like the Headhunters and the Crusaders.   The CD contains only 6 tracks.   Despite that slight shortcoming, all of the tracks are unique in their delivery.  The quartet really shines on the tracks, "Core of Vitality"  & "Good Riddance!", which delivers the goods with its funky soul beat.  If you remember funky jazz like I do, you'll enjoy this high power release! 

July 1st, 2006

Lynne Fiddmont – Flow
4 stars out of 4

Lynne Fiddmont was brought to my attention by her publicist, Max Bernard, who thought I should give her play list consideration.   Although Lynne’s voice is not as overpowering, her voice will remind you of Minnie Ripperton, soothing and pleasant to listen to.  The crown jewel of this CD is the track, “Cupid”.  She also shows off her R&B skills with the track "Something So Right".  The tracks defines smooth vocals at its best!    I can't help but think that this singer has "superstar" written all over it.   This is a hot pick up if you find it.  Consider purchasing this outstanding release, one of the best CD I've heard this year!

David P. Stevens – Timeless
3½ stars out of 4

David P. Stevens is a "jack of all trades" in the music business. He composes, produces, engineers and plays guitar on his latest CD, "Timeless".  He describes his music as, "cool, exciting and mesmerizing."   His latest CD sure is pleasant and relaxing to listen to.  I was hooked on the track, "In Philly", which is a hip charged groove in the tradition of the music group, "Pieces of a Dream".   Other tracks of note are   " ".  The CD definitely has style.  Stevens give the listener an entertaining fill of jazz music.  "Timeless" is certainly a well made recording!

June 1st, 2006

Ty Causey – N-Tysing Rekindled
4 Stars out of 4

Ty Causey is the first musician who inquired me through my new MySpace website.  After listening to his re-released CD, I may have just found one of the best CD's I’ve heard so far this year.  "N-Tysing Rekindled" has the flavor that most vocal jazz should have; style, flair and finesse.  The recording starts out with probably his best track. "Let's Get Smooth" is a outstanding tune that brings back memories of another great soul singer, Marvin Gaye.  Other tracks that are of note are, "Until Sunrise" and a marvelous cover of Sting's "It's Probably Me".  I'm certainly glad that this CD is getting a second look by many radio stations.  Causey is a one of a kind soul singer with a range that can span from Smooth Jazz to Traditional R&B. Highly, highly recommended! 

June 1st, 2006

Kim Monroe – New Reality
3½ stars out of 4

On her PR information, it was listed that if Jimmy Page and Gladys Knight had a child, he/she would probably sound like Kim Monroe.  I reviewed her debut CD last year and thought she had raw talent. She has an outstanding vocal range and with the right producer, she’ll go places. Her latest CD release, really shows her improvement.  "New Reality" mixes original work with exciting covers by Bill Withers, Todd Rundgren, Marvin Gaye & Three Dog Night.  She's surrounded by very talented local music artists and a very good producer, Mark Doyle.  Together, they make one heck of a CD.  Give this CD your utmost attention!
 

June 1st, 2006

Wilton Felder – Let’s Spend Some Time
3½ stars out of 4

Wilton Felder is a jazz legend. He spent more than 30 years as a member of the groundbreaking group the Jazz Crusaders. That quartet comprised some of the greatest musicians in the business. (Joe Sample, Wayne Henderson, Stix Hooper.) Their 1979 album, “Street Life” was a Grammy award winning smash. After much success with the group, Felder has branched off on a solo career with his 2005 release, “Let’s Spend Some Time”.  Most of Felder's tracks are accompanied by a wonderful trumpeter, George Shaw.  Shaw compliments Felder's recognizable sax on tracks such as "Smoke House", As Long As I'm With You".  The only drawback was the track "Information" as it seemed out of place with the rest of the CD. Overall, this is a superb solo release by a true jazz legend.  Long time fans of the Crusaders won't be disappointed!

June 1st, 2006
Greg Smith – Above the Clouds
3 Stars out of 4

Guitarist Greg Smith is originally from Central New York. His artistic journey has brought him to the Tampa Bay, Florida area where he is a successful musician on the club circuit. In the past, he’s played with Larry Coryell, Pat Metheny and Chick Corea. His latest CD, entitled “Above the Clouds” is a musical journey through Jazz, New Age and a bit of Americana. The recording is a refreshing change of pace from the