Dianne Reeves - The Nearness of You

Styles: Vocal
Year: 1988
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 50:12
Size: 115,3 MB
Art: Front

(4:55) 1. Softly As In A Morning Sunrise
(5:41) 2. Like A Lover
(4:08) 3. How High The Moon
(8:05) 4. For All We Know
(3:19) 5. The Nearness of You/Misty
(6:18) 6. You Taught My Heart To Sing
(5:39) 7. Ancient Source
(9:02) 8. Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most
(3:01) 9. Oh What A Freedom

Five-time Grammy winner DIANNE REEVES is the pre-eminent jazz vocalist in the world. As a result of her breathtaking virtuosity, improvisational prowess, and unique jazz and R&B stylings, Reeves received the Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Performance for three consecutive recordings a Grammy first in any vocal category.

Featured in George Clooney’s six-time Academy Award nominated Good Night, and Good Luck, Reeves won the Best Jazz Vocal Grammy for the film's soundtrack.

Reeves has recorded and performed with Wynton Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra. She has also recorded with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra conducted by Daniel Barenboim and was a featured soloist with Sir Simon Rattle and the Berlin Philharmonic. Reeves was the first Creative Chair for Jazz for the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the first vocalist to ever perform at the famed Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Reeves worked with legendary producer Arif Mardin (Norah Jones, Aretha Franklin) on the Grammy winning A Little Moonlight, an intimate collection of standards featuring her touring trio. When Reeves’ holiday collection Christmas Time is Here was released, Ben Ratliff of The New York Times raved, “Ms. Reeves, a jazz singer of frequently astonishing skill, takes the assignment seriously; this is one of the best jazz Christmas CD's I've heard.”

In recent years Reeves has toured the world in a variety of contexts including “Sing the Truth,” a musical celebration of Nina Simone which also featured Lizz Wright and Angelique Kidjo. She performed at the White House on multiple occasions including President Obama's State Dinner for the President of China as well as the Governors’ Ball.

Reeves’ most recent release Beautiful Life, features Gregory Porter, Robert Glasper, Lalah Hathaway and Esperanza Spalding. Produced by Terri Lyne Carrington, Beautiful Life won the 2015 Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Performance. Reeves is the recipient of honorary doctorates from the Berklee College of Music and the Juilliard School. In 2018 the National Endowment for the Arts designated Reeves a Jazz Master the highest honor the United States bestows on jazz artists.
https://diannereeves.com/media/
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Personnel: Lead Vocals [Vocals] – Dianne Reeves; Acoustic Guitar – Kevin Eubanks (tracks: 2); Alto Saxophone – Greg Osby (tracks: 1, 4); Bass – Charnett Moffett (tracks: 1, 3 to 7), Tony Dumas (tracks: 9); Drums – Marvin Smitty Smith* (tracks: 1, 4, 6, 7), Michael Baker (2) (tracks: 9), Terri Lyne Carrington (tracks: 3, 5); Keyboards – David Torkanowsky (tracks: 9); Piano – Donald Brown (tracks: 1, 7), Mulgrew Miller (tracks: 3 to 6, 8); Tenor Saxophone – Gerald Albright (tracks: 9); Vibraphone – Bobby Hutcherson (tracks: 1, 7); Wind Chimes – Ron Powell (tracks: 2).

The Nearness of You

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Randal Clark - Imaginary World

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2021
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 53:09
Size: 122,3 MB
Art: Front

(5:23) 1. Trailblazer
(3:52) 2. New Day
(5:59) 3. Daybreak
(4:07) 4. Living Underground
(4:22) 5. Discovery
(5:00) 6. Boulevard East
(4:17) 7. Tiger Lily
(6:08) 8. Looking Back
(4:20) 9. Turbocharged
(4:20) 10. Time's Arrow
(5:15) 11. Imaginary World

Randal Clark's Imaginary World stretches beyond the conscious boundaries and illuminates the dark corners. It's clear from the onset that it is steeped in jazz tradition with a giant foothold on both rhythmic and melodic foundations. Clark establishes himself early and never lets go. Too often a buoyant blast off can ultimately fade away into the abyss of both the imaginary and conscious recesses of the mind or a once steaming groove can melt into the wallpaper. Even the most established of artists can find pacing to be a challenge. Sequencing is an art form in itself. That said, it matters little without the right chops and strong compositions. Prolific songwriter Jeff Lorber is responsible for well over half of the material on this project. As always, his tunes are bright and melodious. The keyboardist is also among the strong cast of musicians assembled for this recording. That list includes drummers Vinnie Colaiuta and Gary Novak, bassist Jimmy Haslip (who also produced),guitarists Mike Miller and Michael Thompson, as well as several others. There's even a special guest appearance from Randy Brecker.

It is Clark, however, who seizes the opportunities. Starting out as a "Trailblazer" seemed fitting as Clark then evokes a bright "New Day" in a tune that Haslip and Novak present in a rhythmic jewel case. Clark and Thompson utilize the structure to engage in playful improvisation. The "Daybreak" continues with Colaiuta and Haslip forming a soft launch pad for Clark to propel out of with his soprano sax. He meets a spirited Lorber in orbit, as his high-end springs open, entering into an intelligent early morning conversation. The day then really gets going with a snap, clap, and funk in which the ensemble rides a punchy groove. This fourth consecutive Lorber composition, "Living Underground," is highlighted by a Haslip bass solo and ignited by the earthy and soulful playing of Clark. No doubt it became a sunny day as the Clark and Lorber co-write "Discovery" shines brightly with fiery guitar licks from Thompson and equally buzzing sax riffs from Clark. This song gives Clark a lot of room to fly. He soars gracefully dipping his emotional wings in a myriad of directions.

A midway line-up change then works well to add a new wrinkle and subtract any possibility of malaise. Keyboardist David Mann, guitarist Jon Herington, bassist Gerald Albright, and drummer Sonny Emory become Clark's bandmates for the Mann penned "Boulevard East." Herington's distinct tonality and the shuffled rhythm section bring a new flavor to the mix. Clark's sound casts a contrasting shadow as his impressions are made in a new light. The middle of the set is refueled by the return of Lorber and his feisty rock-grooved "Tiger Lily." Clark makes no attempt to hold that tiger, instead invigoratingly capturing the raw energy and powering through the barn burner, alongside the blazing inferno of Thompson's guitar. Having gone the upbeat distance, slowing down to catch your breath with a ballad is logical, if not necessary. "Looking Back" strongly demonstrates at least a couple of footnotes. One is Clark's ability to be convincingly sentimental with gorgeous soprano lines. The other is to be able to write such a piece. "Looking Back" is one of two solo compositions from Clark on the record. With oxygen tanks replenished, it's right back to being "Turbocharged." Yes, another Lorber juggernaut. This one has Miller's guitar edges and Clark's alto benefitting from the unique and swinging gait.

Lorber and Haslip have written many songs together over the years, so it comes as no surprise that they contributed a co-write. Nor is it a surprise that "Time's Arrow" is a composition of significance and creative depth. It never hurts to invite Randy Brecker to the party either. It takes only a New York minute for Brecker to make his presence felt with such nifty pops emanating from his horn. He goes on to trade licks with Clark in this notable song. It's the makings of a stellar record when you have this kind of gas left in the tank near the end. The record finishes with Clark's second solo composition, which also is the title track, "Imaginary World." Fittingly, it's a pondering and meandering piece that straddles the line between imagination and reality. This eleven song offering is an impressive debut album. Randal Clark is on the map, beginning his journey of melding fresh ideas with time honored jazz traditions. By Jim Worsley https://www.allaboutjazz.com/imaginary-world-randal-clark-blue-hour-productions

Personnel: Randal Clark: saxophone, alto; Jeff Lorber: keyboards; Vinnie Colaiuta: drums; Jimmy Haslip: bass; Gary Novak: drums; Mike Miller: guitar; Scott Kinsey: keyboards; Michael Thompson: guitar, electric; Jimmy Branly: drums; Gerald Albright: saxophone; Randy Brecker: trumpet.

Imaginary World

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Dave Koz And Friends - Summer Horns II From A To Z

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2018
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 54:54
Size: 126,3 MB
Art: Front

(4:28) 1. Medley: Getaway / That’s The Way (I Like It)
(5:05) 2. More Today Than Yesterday
(4:50) 3. Keep That Same Old Feeling
(5:28) 4. Medley: From A To Z (Take The “A” Train / Make The Road By Walking)
(4:10) 5. This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) (feat. Kenny Lattimore & Sheléa)
(4:55) 6. Before I Let Go
(5:09) 7. Late In The Evening (feat. Jonathan Butler)
(4:43) 8. If You Really Love Me
(4:44) 9. Conga (feat. Aubrey Logan & Gloria Estefan)
(5:58) 10. Earth Song
(5:19) 11. Route 66 (feat. Aubrey Logan)

It’s easy to see why Dave Koz wanted to record a part two to his Summer Horns album. Part 1, which dropped in 2013, brought together four of contemporary jazz’s best-known saxophonists Koz, Gerald Albright, Mindi Abair, and Richard Elliott - to cover tunes from pop and R&B bands that had world famous horn sections. The original Summer Horns featured cuts by Chicago, Tower of Power, Sly and the Family Stone, the Beatles and Earth, Wind & Fire (actually two EW&F songs, since their 1978 cover of the Fab Four’s “Got to Get You Into My Life” served as the inspiration for the track included on Summer Horns.)Summer Horns became a commercial and creative success, earning a Grammy nod, and receiving considerable airplay on terrestrial, satellite and internet radio. The band also spent two years touring following its release. With all that positivity surrounding the original, a sequel could be viewed as an economic necessity. However, the music industry is like a river in that artists never creatively cross twice. It’s been five years since the original Summer Horns dropped, and so it’s not surprising that the four principles were not in the same place.

Changing times presented Koz with an opportunity to make the same type of album different, and he took advantage on Summer Horns II: From A to Z by adding trumpeter Rick Braun and trombonist and vocalist Aubrey Logan to give the brass ensemble a larger and more diverse sound to accompany the returning Albright and Elliott. Summer Horns II also features more vocals from Logan, as well as Kenny Lattimore, Shelea, Gloria Estefan and Jonathan Butler. The addition of trumpet and trombone seemed to inform the album’s musical selections. “This Will Be,” the album’s best track, opens with a honking baritone saxophone and is joined in with the other players giving the track a big band sound. And while the balance of the track plays it pretty close to Natalie Cole’s original, the decision to turn the cut into a duet featuring Lattimore and Shelea pays off, as they transform Cole’s loving soliloquy about the eternal nature of that special love into a swinging yet sensual conversation between two lovers. The horns combine with the African infused percussion, backing vocals and Jonathan Butler’s acoustic guitar work and rangy vocals on the cover of Paul Simon’s “Late in the Evening.” Whereas Simon’s vocals were subdued and wry, Butler brings elements of his gospel roots to this soulful rendition. Acoustic bass and the harmonic horn play combine with Logan’s vocals to create a swinging version of “Route 66.” The vocal tracks on Summer Horns II are so strong that I had to wonder if the group missed some opportunities with sticking primarily with instrumentals on several covers. I would love to see what creative arrangements Koz and his crew could have come up with if Lattimore had been turned loose on “More Today than Yesterday,” “Before I Let Go,” or if paired in duet with Estefan (who paired with Logan on a remake of her 1986 hit “Conga”) on “If You Really Love Me.” But, my desire for a few more vocals aside, this is a worthy follow up to the smash original collaboration, and an extremely enjoyable soundtrack to Summer 2018. Recommended. By Howard Dukes https://www.soultracks.com/album-review-dave-koz-summer-horns-II-from-a-to-z

Personnel: Dave Koz, Gerald Albright, Gloria Estefan, Jonathan Butler, Mindi Abair, Richard Elliot

Summer Horns II From A To Z

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Don Grusin - Laguna Cove

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 2007
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 42:39
Size: 99,1 MB
Art: Front

(3:56)  1. Laguna Cove
(3:50)  2. No Tanlines
(4:16)  3. Sunburn
(4:05)  4. Sunset @ Peggy's
(4:05)  5. Cats of Carlsbad
(4:36)  6. Heartbeat
(3:44)  7. Kickin' Back
(5:06)  8. Odalisque
(4:09)  9. Naked Truth
(4:47) 10. Crazy

Contemporary Jazz and World music with classic melodies and deep harmonies soaring over grooves that feel good, all supported by strong acoustic piano playing. This project was recorded in Laguna Beach at Award Records by Mike Hatcher and all my guys came down from Los Angeles to play the spirit of the Laguna Beach air, water, hills, sunsets... These players brought their hearts and musical depth to the party:
https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/dongrusinmusic2

Personnel: Gerald Albright - Sax, Sal Marquez - Trumpet, Walfredo Reyes Jr - Drums, Guitarist Wayne Johnson, and Bassist Armand Sabal-Lecco.

Laguna Cove

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Gerald Albright - Slam Dunk

Styles: Saxophone Jazz 
Year: 2014
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 48:49
Size: 113,9 MB
Art: Front

(4:39)  1. Slam Dunk
(5:33)  2. True Colors
(5:16)  3. Because Of You
(5:43)  4. It's A Man's, Man's, Man's World
(4:17)  5. The Duke
(1:30)  6. Sparkle In Your Eyes - Interlude
(4:13)  7. Sparkle In Your Eyes
(4:46)  8. Where Did We Go Wrong?
(3:04)  9. Fiesta Interlude
(4:38) 10. Split Decision
(0:39) 11. The Gospel - Interlude
(4:27) 12. The Gospel

On his latest disc, Gerald Albright offers a high-energy contemporary jazz set that puts the veteran saxophonist’s dizzying array of talents amply on display. Not only does the album showcase Albright’s formidable skills on alto, soprano, tenor and baritone sax, it also demonstrates his facility on flute, bass and vocals, as well as his talents as a composer, producer and arranger. Stylistically, Albright stays on familiar terrain, not venturing far from his trademark R&B-flavored sound, but the tunes on the album are so likable, and so energetic, that they draw you in and keep you interested. The title track, which opens the disc, sets the tone. An ebullient urban-jazz number, it features punchy horns, a muscular alto sax lead and some very funky bass from Albright. The saxophonist played in Phil Collins’ 1998 Big Band project, and on Slam Dunk he tips his hat to his former bandleader by covering “True Colors,” a hit for both Collins and Cyndi Lauper. Both pop stars recorded the song as a ballad, but Albright’s version-which features background vocals by the saxophonist and his daughter Selina-picks up the tempo a bit, pairing a peppy alto lead with a midtempo groove. Albright delivers a slow-burning take on James Brown’s “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World,” the intimate, sultry open gradually escalating into a big, full production with Albright serving as his own horn section. Two tracks on the album memorialize people close to Albright. The saxophonist celebrates his old friend George Duke, who passed away last year, with the gently grooving “The Duke,” and pays heartfelt tribute to his late mother-in-law with the sweet, appropriately titled closer, “The Gospel.” ~ Lucy Tauss https://jazztimes.com/reviews/albums/gerald-albright-slam-dunk/

Recorded in Denver, Colorado and Wallingford, Connecticut (hometown of co-producer/co-writer/keyboardist Chris "Big Dog" Davis), Albright is also supported on this CD by drummer Jerohn Garnett, guitarist Rick Watford, and his daughter, Selina Albright, on vocals.

Slam Dunk

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Jeff Lorber - Kickin' It

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 2001
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 43:34
Size: 100,8 MB
Art: Front

(4:17)  1. Snakebite
(3:54)  2. Ain't Nobody
(4:25)  3. Happy Endings
(3:58)  4. Chopsticks
(4:33)  5. Keep That Same Ol' Feelin'
(4:40)  6. Reflections
(4:52)  7. The Bijou
(4:08)  8. Kickin' It
(4:05)  9. The In Crowd
(4:37) 10. What It Is

Jeff Lorber's label debut on Samson Records is a typical jazz fusion effort that will sound familiar to fans of his band of the 1970s and '80s, the Jeff Lorber Fusion. Teaming with co-writer/producer/arranger Steve Dubin, Lorber constructs a series of upbeat rhythm tracks over which he plays melodically on either acoustic piano or Fender Rhodes electric. He is joined on nearly every track by a guest saxophonist and/or guitarist. Tenor saxophonist Gerald Albright sits in on "Snakebite," "Keep That Same Ol' Feelin'," and "Kickin' It" (with guitarist Stuart Wylen); soprano saxophonist Dave Koz on "Happy Endings" (with guitarist Michael Landau) and "The Bijou"; tenor saxophonist Steve Cole on "Chopsticks"; soprano saxophonist Gary Meek on "Reflections" (with Wylen) and "What It Is"; and tenor saxophonist Richard Elliot on "The 'In' Crowd." Lorber cedes considerable space to his guests, but he still finds room for his own improvisations. He also brings in a horn section on several cuts, notably "Keep That Same Ol' Feelin'," which sounds enough like a lost Steely Dan track that you keep expecting Donald Fagen to start singing on instead of Siedah Garrett, who intones the repeated lines "Keep on/Keep that same ol' feelin'." "Ain't Nobody" is the 1983 Rufus and Chaka Khan hit, here rendered with an appropriately funky feel, and "The 'In' Crowd" is, of course, the 1965 Ramsey Lewis Trio hit, a nod to an obvious predecessor of Lorber's. The keyboardist slows the pace for "Reflections," but most of these tracks are lively pieces with lots of interplay that is only ended when they fade out. ~ William Ruhlmann https://www.allmusic.com/album/kickin-it-mw0000115527

Personnel:  Jeff plays Yamaha DS6 piano, Fender Rhodes,other keyboards, synth bass, mute guitar; Alex Al – Bass; Dave Koz – Soprano, Alto sax on track 3 and 7; Gary Meek – Soprano, Tenor sax; Gerald Albright – Tenor sax on track 1, 5, 8 Jerry Hey – Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Horn arrangements; John “Little John” Roberts – Drums; Lenny Castro – Percussion; Richard Elliot – Tenor sax on track 9; Siedah Garrett – Vocals on track 5; Steve Cole – Tenor sax on track 4; Tony Maiden – Guitar; Wah Wah Watson – Guitar

Kickin' It

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Gerald Albright, Will Downing - Pleasures Of The Night

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 1998
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 51:56
Size: 120,1 MB
Art: Front

(5:38)  1. Pleasures Of The Night
(7:19)  2. The Nearness Of You
(3:41)  3. Stop, Look, Listen To Your Heart
(3:01)  4. Michelle
(4:45)  5. Like A Lover
(5:17)  6. The Look Of Love
(5:23)  7. Here's That Rainy Day
(5:41)  8. Back To The Roots
(7:01)  9. We'll Be Together Again
(4:03) 10. Girl Blue

Although saxophonist Gerald Albright gets co-billing on this CD and two of the ten selections are instrumentals, this is very much a Will Downing vocal set. The emphasis is on romantic ballads; in addition to some newer material, it includes some older songs like "The Nearness of You," the Beatles' "Michelle," "The Look of Love," and "We'll Be Together Again." Downing has long had a strong, warm, and deep voice, and this type of outing is perfect for him. 

The performances, although touched a little by jazz, are really a soulful blend of middle-of-the-road pop music. The co-leaders are joined by a variety of top rhythm section players, including pianists John Beasley, Bobby Lyle, Patrice Rushen, and Ronnie Foster. This CD serves as an excellent showcase for Will Downing's voice. ~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/pleasures-of-the-night-mw0000600709

Personnel:  Saxophone – Gerald Albright; Vocals – Will Downing; Acoustic Bass – Kenny Wild, Tony Dumas; Bass – Abraham Laboriel, Jimmy Haslip; Drums – Harvey Mason, John Robinson, Land Richards, Marvin Smith; Guitar – Paul Jackson Jr.; Keyboards – Dave Delhomme, Ronnie Foster; Percussion – Luis Conte; Piano – Bobby Lyle, John Beasly, Patrice Rushen

Pleasures Of The Night

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Gerald Albright - Bermuda Nights

Styles: Crossover Jazz, Saxophone Jazz 
Year: 1988
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 44:53
Size: 103,0 MB
Art: Front

(5:06)  1. When You Say You Love Me
(5:43)  2. In The Mood
(5:53)  3. Bermuda Nights
(5:39)  4. The Hook
(6:37)  5. Feeling Inside
(5:23)  6. Still In Love
(5:02)  7. Truth
(5:28)  8. Too Cool

Smooth jazz usually enjoys a bad reputation with critics, who tend to complain that the music is shallow and bereft of any personality. It's thanks to albums like Gerald Albright's Bermuda Nights that this style is often dismissed. There is virtually nothing on the album which is actually worth hearing. Sure, Albright's saxophone playing is competent, but he shows little excitement and even less personal style. The backing musicians include session cats such as drummer Harvey Mason and guitarist Paul Jackson, Jr., but they do not add anything to the proceedings. Basically, the songs tend to sound alike, and even though most feature different musicians, all of them offer the same pseudo-lush plastic-keyboard approach. There are many smooth jazz albums which show that the genre is not as terrible as critics pretend, but Bermuda Nights certainly doesn't fall into this category. This album is in its essence an inoffensive piece of fluff, recommended only to fans of Albright who would later record better smooth jazz albums himself. ~ Christian Genzel https://www.allmusic.com/album/bermuda-nights-mw0000202303   

Bermuda Nights

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Pete Escovedo - E Street

Styles: Vocal
Year: 1997
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 57:15
Size: 131,4 MB
Art: Front

(6:14)  1. Another Star
(6:24)  2. Sambacu
(5:24)  3. Fantasy
(6:16)  4. Boomerang (Instrumental)
(4:57)  5. Smile Please (Instrumental)
(5:05)  6. Like A Volcano (Instrumental)
(4:49)  7. You're My Little Girl
(6:01)  8. La Familia (Instrumental)
(5:13)  9. Waterfall (Instrumental)
(6:47) 10. Lord Remember Me

E Street is an all-star affair led by percussionist Pete Escovedo, the father of drummer/percussionist Sheila E., who also guests on E Street along with several Escovedo siblings, saxophonists John Handy, Gerald Albright and Mel Martin, and pianist/vibraphonist Buddy Montgomery. E Street seems to expend a great deal of energy going in a lot of different directions wide-open freeways of Latin rock, lit up with horns and sparkling with guitar, piano, trumpet and of course percussion solos; rolling, soft cha-cha ballads; and new yet familiar byways with covers of Earth Wind & Fire's "Fantasy" and Stevie Wonder's "Another Star" but it never seems to actually GET anywhere. The only breaks in the placid scenery come from the appropriately titled fiesta jam "Like a Volcano" and the surprisingly stirring, hymn-with-vocals "Lord Remember Me," which closes this set. ~ Chris Slawecki https://www.allmusic.com/album/e-street-mw0000019566

Personnel: Pete Escovedo (vocals, percussion, timbales); Brenda Roy (vocals); Peter Michael Escovedo (vocals, drums, percussion); Juan Escovedo, Sheila Escovedo (vocals, percussion, congas); John Handy (alto saxophone); Gerald Albright, Alex Murzyn (tenor saxophone); Melecio Magdaluyo (saxophone, flute); Mel Martin (bass clarinet); Bill Ortiz, Louis Fasman, John Worley, Mike Galisatus (trumpet); Robbie Kwock (trumpet, flugelhorn); Marty Wehner, Wayne Wallace, Jeff Cressman (trombone); Buddy Montgomery (vibraphone); Renato Neto, Jeff Chimenti, Murray Low (piano); Dave Mathews (piano, synthesizer); Ray Obiedo (synthesizer, guitar); Steve Erquiaga (acoustic guitar); Mark Van Wageningen, Derek Jones (bass); Paul Van Wageningen (drums); Van Waller (percussion); Juanita Escovedo (guiro).

E Street

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Pete Escovedo - Flying South

Styles: Vocal
Year: 1996
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 54:45
Size: 128,5 MB
Art: Front

(1:37)  1. Flying South (intro)
(6:33)  2. Flying South
(5:42)  3. All This Love
(3:35)  4. Cabo Frio
(5:34)  5. Tiemblas
(3:38)  6. Flying Easy
(7:24)  7. Still Life
(4:56)  8. Esta Noche
(4:52)  9. Como Rien
(5:08) 10. Leyte
(1:17) 11. Canto Para Chango
(4:25) 12. El Alma De Carnival

An active force in Latin jazz since the '60s, Pete Escovedo is well-known in the San Francisco Bay area; not only as a seasoned percussionist and bandleader, but as the musical and spiritual head of the Familia Escovedo. His brother is fellow musician Coke Escovedo, and his children and relatives include percussionist/vocalist Sheila E., producer/bandleader/percussionist Peter Michael Escovedo, and Texas-based singer/songwriter Alejandro Escovedo. Flying South, a 1996 release, continues Escovedo's exploration of the musical region where Latin jazz, salsa, and pop meet. Featuring contributions from George Duke, Andy Narrell, and Najee, highlights include the title track, "Tiemblas," and a Cal Tjader composition, "Leyte." For fans of Koinania, Alex Acuna & the Unknowns, and pop/jazz/Latin crossover, this disc is a worthwhile buy. ~ Gregg Juke https://www.allmusic.com/album/flying-south-mw0000180346

Personnel: Pete Escovedo (vocals, drums, congas, bongos, guiro, timbales, percussion, bells); John Santos (vocals, shekere, percussion); Lalah Hathaway, Nikita Germaine, Pastiche (vocals); Ray Obiedo (guitar, piano); David Yamasaki (guitar); Melecio Magdaluyo (flute, saxophone, tenor saxophone); Najee (flute, soprano saxophone); Norbert Satchel, Norbert Stachel (flute); Gerald Albright (alto saxophone, tenor saxophone); Robbie Kwock, Robbie Kowck, Louis Fasman (trumpet, flugelhorn); Wayne Wallace (trombone, keyboards); Dave Gregoric, Jeff Cressman, Marty Wehner (trombone); George Duke, Murray Low (piano, keyboards); David Matthews , Rebeca Mauleón (piano); Sheila E., Sheila Escovedo (drums, congas, shekere, percussion); Francisco Aguabella (drums, percussion); Paul van Wageningen (drums); Juan Escovedo (congas, bongos, percussion); Juanita Escovedo (guiro, percussion); Andy Narell (steel drum, steel pan); Brittney Escovedo, Mom Escovedo, Pops Escovedo (percussion).

Flying South

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Gerald Albright - 30 (Bonus Version)

Size: 120,3 MB
Time: 52:10
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2018
Styles: Jazz: Smooth Jazz
Art: Front

01. Sooki Sooki (5:04)
02. Just Between Us (5:38)
03. Bermuda Nights (4:44)
04. Road To Peace (5:25)
05. Chips N' Salsa (4:59)
06. New Beginnings (4:57)
07. Come Back To Me (Feat. Selina Albright) (5:08)
08. 4 On The Floor (4:47)
09. Boss Of Nova (6:35)
10. 4 On The Floor (Feat. Ricky Watford) (Bonus Track Version) (4:48)

This self-produced anniversary project is a reflection of some of Albright’s favorite music that he has written over the past three decades! All of the songs are action-packed with new and unique arrangements, spear-headed by Albright, Chris “Big Dog” Davis, and James “JRob” Roberson. This CD will prove to be one of Gerald Albright’s finest efforts to date.

Albright is a Los Angeles, California native. For decades and through past solo CD’s, he has wowed us with the sultry yet high-octane funky sounds of his compositions. After 30 years at the top of his game as one of contemporary urban jazz’s core artists and sonic innovators, the eight-time Grammy nominee is letting loose like never before. “30” and all projects to follow will place a stamp on the Albright name as one to deliver nothing but the best.

Albright gets right down to business, celebrating his fresh start of “30” with a new rendition of “Sooki Sooki”. He creates all the horn sections himself, texturing alto, tenor and baritone saxophones with the funkiness of an up and coming hit maker, James “JRob” Roberson on keyboards. Roberson’s off-the-chain talent on keyboards will also keep you jumping on “Chips and Salsa” and “4 On the Floor”. Chris “Big Dog” Davis (one of urban jazz’s top hit makers), creates an array of keyboard sounds on “Bermuda Nights”, “Road to Peace”, “New Beginnings”, “Come Back to Me”, “Boss of Nova” and “Just Between Us”, with Albright infusing a mixture of horns and other instruments.

The emotional up-tempo ballad “Come Back to Me” features Albright’s daughter, Selina Albright – a solo artist in her own right – on background vocals. Another highlight of “30” would be a bonus track, “4 On the Floor” featuring the dynamic Ricky Watford on guitar.

Albright says that the big, multi-faceted sound of the album, particularly his use of multiple flutes, is a throwback to the way he came up in music. Because Albright’s musical muse has taken him to so many fascinating locales along the contemporary R&B/urban jazz spectrum, he’s joyfully defied easy categorizations.

“Top to bottom,” Albright says, “Whether in concert, listening to my music over the radio or CD player, I always want my listeners to be taken on a musical journey with different textures, rhythms, chord progressions and moods. I want people to know where I’ve been and where I’m going, and to let them hear that I’m in a really good place in my life.”

30 (Bonus Version)

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Dave Koz & Friends - Summer Horns

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 55:11
Size: 126.3 MB
Styles: Saxophone jazz
Year: 2013
Art: Front

[4:03] 1. Always There
[5:37] 2. Got To Get You Into My Life
[5:06] 3. Rise
[4:37] 4. So Very Hard To Go
[4:26] 5. Hot Fun In The Summertime
[4:10] 6. Take 5
[4:46] 7. 25 Or 6 To 4
[4:44] 8. Reasons
[4:14] 9. I Got You (I Feel Good)
[3:44] 10. You Haven’t Done Nothin’
[5:43] 11. God Bless The Child
[3:56] 12. Summer Horns

Nine-time GRAMMY® nominee Dave Koz remembers a time when the summers lasted forever, and the most popular rock, R&B, soul and funk bands of the day were propelled by high-octane, richly arranged horn sections. Indeed, from the late 1960s through the ‘70s, bands like Sly & the Family Stone, Tower of Power, Earth Wind & Fire, Chicago, Blood Sweat & Tears and other brassy juggernauts of the era ruled the airwaves and opened his young ears to the saxophone’s limitless possibilities as a solo instrument as well as a collaborative voice with the trumpet and trombone.

Four decades later, Koz has assembled three of his most talented and trusted colleagues – Gerald Albright, Richard Elliot and Mindi Abair – to revisit this golden age with new arrangements of classic songs from this period in the history of popular music. Dave Koz and Friends Summer Horns, produced by Paul Brown (Al Jarreau, George Benson, June Tabor, Boney James), is a collaborative effort that throws the spotlight on four high-profile saxophonists, and augments the team with several other equally talented musicians and vocalists. Summer Horns, released on June 11, 2013 on Concord Records, turns up the heat just in time for the summer tour season.

Summer Horns mc
Summer Horns zippy

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Bob Baldwin - Betcha By Golly Wow: The Songs Of Thom Bell

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 51:52
Size: 118.8 MB
Styles: Soul, Crossover jazz
Year: 2012
Art: Front

[5:18] 1. Didn't I (Blow Your Mind This Time) (Feat. Russ Freeman)
[5:43] 2. The Rubberband Man (Feat. Paul Brown & Ragan Whiteside)
[5:06] 3. La La Means I Love You (Feat. Vivian Green)
[5:02] 4. Gonna Be Sweeter
[5:10] 5. Break Up To Make Up (Feat. Will Downing)
[4:49] 6. You're As Right As Rain (Feat. Paul Taylor)
[4:44] 7. I'll Be Around (Feat. Marion Meadows)
[3:02] 8. Bell & Creed
[6:42] 9. Betcha By Golly Wow (Feat. Toni Redd)
[6:13] 10. People Make The World Go Round (Feat. Marion Meadows)

Grammy nominee and a bona fide hero of New Urban Jazz, keyboardist and arranger Bob Baldwin makes his debut on Peak/eOne with an all-killer, no-filler collection of classic tunes penned by Philadelphia soul immortal Thom Bell. This set hits the sweet spot from the first track and doesn t miss for a single minute of the entire program.

An all-star cast puts the project over the top, a real whos who of contemporary jazz and smooth R&B.It includes: WILL DOWNING, VIVIAN GREEN, GERALD ALBRIGHT, MARION MEADOWS, PAUL TAYLOR, RUSS FREEMAN (of THE RIPPINGTONS), PAUL BROWN. To top it all off, the legend himself, Thom Bell, has written a brand new song especially for this tribute, Gonna Be Much Sweeter. And Bob Baldwin proves one more time that it doesn t get any sweeter than his brand of soul and jazz.

Betcha By Golly Wow: The Songs Of Thom Bell mc
Betcha By Golly Wow: The Songs Of Thom Bell zippy

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Nancy Wilson - Forbidden Lover

Styles: Vocal Jazz
Year: 1987
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 40:39
Size: 94,0 MB
Art: Front

(4:17)  1. Forbidden Lover
(3:18)  2. I Was Telling Him About You
(4:24)  3. If You Only Knew
(4:47)  4. Deeper
(3:40)  5. Puttin' My Trust
(4:23)  6. You Know
(4:21)  7. Too Good To Be True
(3:53)  8. I Never Held Your Heart
(3:32)  9. What Will It Take This Time
(4:00) 10. A Song For You

Billed as the 50th album by this 50-year-old singer, Nancy Wilson's Forbidden Lover is an attempt to contemporize her sound, with arrangements that recall Luther Vandross and the Earth, Wind & Fire horn section. The title track, a duet with Carl Anderson, seems intended to heat up the R&B charts and, if it did, there would be other tracks to follow. It's reasonable that Columbia Records, which signed Wilson up after her long tenure at Capitol, should try to get a return on its investment. But Wilson the jazz-R&B song stylist gets lost on most of these recordings. "I Was Telling Him About You" is a ballad that lets her get across her personality, and the string-filled closer, Leon Russell's "A Song About You," really gives her room to shine and probably will turn out to be the only keeper on this collection. Pop music performers almost always want to sound contemporary, but this is one singer who would be better off acting her age. ~ William Ruhlmann https://www.allmusic.com/album/forbidden-lover-mw0000192687

Personnel:  Alto Saxophone – Ernie Watts;  Electric Piano [Steinway Piano, Rhodes Piano], Synthesizer [Oberheim OB-8, DX-Z, Mini Moog] – Masahiko Satoh;  Backing Vocals – Desiree McAlpin, Jim Gilstrap, Marlena Jeter, Valeria Mayo;  Bass – Abraham Laboriel, Jimmy Johnson ;  Bass Trombone – Bill Reichenbach;  Cello – Armen Ksajikian, David Shamban, Raymond Kelley;  Concertmaster – Gerald Vinci;  Congas, Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa;  Drums – Ed Greene ;  French Horn – James A. Decker, Richard E. Perissi;  Guitar – Paul Jackson Jr.;  Harp – Ann M. Stockton;  Tenor Saxophone – Gerald Albright , Marc Russo;  Trombone – Bill Reichenbach, Charles Loper, Lew McCreary;  Trumpet, Flugelhorn – Gary Grant, Jerry Hey;  Viola – Harry Shirinian, Myer Bello, Roland Kato;  Violin – Assa Drori, Betty Moor, Robert Sanov, Irma Neumann, Mari Tsumura Botnick, Patricia Ann Johnson, Robert Sushel, Ronald Folsom, Sheldon Sanov

Forbidden Lover

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Ray Parker Jr. - After Dark

Styles: Vocal
Year: 1987
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 43:07
Size: 99,0 MB
Art: Front

(4:15)  1. Don't Think That Man Should Sleep Alone
(4:40)  2. Over You (feat. Natalie Cole)
(4:10)  3. Lovin' You
(4:48)  4. You Shoulda Kept A Spare
(3:30)  5. The Past
(4:31)  6. You Make My Nature Dance
(4:52)  7. Perfect Lovers
(4:03)  8. After Midnite
(3:45)  9. I Love Your Daughter
(4:29) 10. After Dark

This was the closest Ray Parker Jr. ever came to doing adult soul. His debut for Geffen included the song "I Don't Think That Man Should Sleep Alone." This was his last big hit, and despite the title, said some serious things about male/female intimacy and relationships. Parker's voice sounded more somber, introspective, and varied than on anything before or since. ~ Ron Wynn https://www.allmusic.com/album/after-dark-mw0000197005               

Personnel:  Ray Parker, Jr. – all instruments, arrangements (1, 3, 4, 6-10);  Paul Jackson, Jr. – guitar;  Cornelius Mims, Nathan East, Neil Stubenhaus – bass;  Jeff Porcaro, Ollie E. Brown, Carlos Vega – drums;  J. Wayne Lindsey, Robbie Buchanan, Eric Daniels, Sylvester Rivers, Greg Phillinganes, Burt Bacharach – keyboards;  Larry Williams – synthesizer;  Kevin Toney – acoustic piano;  Gerald Albright – saxophone solo (2);  Dave Boroff – saxophone solo (4).
 

Background Vocalists:  Ray Parker, Jr., Kamaya Koepke, Karyn White, Arnell Carmichael, Keith Harrison, Candice Ghant, Kashif (also BGV arrangement on track 5), Julia Waters, Maxine Waters, Yogi Horton, Cornelius Mims, Monty Seward, Lynne Fiddmont, Philip Bailey, Greg Phillinganes, Anita Sherman.

After Dark

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Kirk Whalum - Colors

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 1997
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 49:33
Size: 113,7 MB
Art: Front

(5:34)  1. Cannonnesque
(4:53)  2. All I Need
(4:19)  3. Daddy Loves You
(4:15)  4. Strength In You
(4:38)  5. If Only For One Night
(6:55)  6. Escolhido (Chosen)
(4:17)  7. Open My Eyes
(4:35)  8. After All This Time
(6:26)  9. Natchez
(3:37) 10. The Back Porch

In the liner notes to his 1996 Warner Bros.solo debut, Colors, saxophonist Kirk Whalum explained why the rhythms of "Escolido" carried him away. "I believe that heaven will be a place where all cultures and all types of music will be celebrated and enjoyed," he wrote. "But if I could choose one genre of music for my mansion there, it would be Brazilian." It's not heaven on earth yet, but at the dawning of the 21st century, musical influences from around the world are infusing jazz with new life. Here, on tunes like "Escolido," Whalum leans on the long, happy marriage of styles fostered by Stan Getz and others and displays how much promise it holds for contemporary jazz. ~ JAZZIZ Magazine Copyright © 2000, Milor Entertainment, Inc. ~ From Jazziz - Editorial Reviews https://www.amazon.com/Colors-Kirk-Whalum/dp/B000002NIV

Personnel:  Kirk Whalum (tenor saxophone, keyboards, programming); Vanesse Thomas, Curtis King, Kevin Whalum, Lynn Fiddmont-Linsey, Allison Krauss, Michael McDonald, Howard Hewett (vocals); Justo Almario (soprano saxophone); Gerald Albright (alto saxophone, bass); Stuart Duncan (violin, mandolin); Leon Pendarvis, Marc Harris (Hammond B-3 organ); Oji Pierce, Dan Shea, Philippe Saisse (keyboards, programming); Bill Cantos (keyboards); Marc Antoine, Chris Rodriguez (acoustic guitar); Nick Moroch (electric guitar); Paul Jackson Jr., Sheldon Reynolds, Mark Baldwin, Dwight Sills (guitar); Chris Minh Doky (acoustic bass); Tommy Simms (bass, keyboard programming); Abraham Laboriel, Ron Jenkins, Dwayne "Smitty" Smith (bass); Bill Maxwell, Sean McCurley, Chester Thompson (drums); Luis Conte (percussion); Paul Brown (programming).

Colors

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Gerald Albright - Kickin' It Up

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 46:06
Size: 105.6 MB
Styles: Smooth jazz
Year: 2004
Art: Front

[4:24] 1. 4 On The Floor
[4:22] 2. To The Max
[4:31] 3. Why Georgia
[3:58] 4. Walker's Theme
[4:50] 5. Condition Of My Heart
[4:55] 6. Throw Yo' Hands (In The Air)
[4:54] 7. Father's Lullaby
[4:55] 8. On The One
[4:34] 9. Kickin' It Up
[4:38] 10. If You Don't Know Me By Now

It's hard to deny that saxophonist Gerald Albright often gave up playing "jazz" -- at least the snob definition -- in favor of urban radio and smooth jazz radio acceptance. During his years on the Atlantic label (1987-1997), his full-lengths contained big hits surrounded by lackluster songs. The exception was the "real jazz" album (snob definition again) Live at Birdland West, which kicked up the excitement a notch. After leaving Atlantic his first record for GRP, Groovology, was freer and more fun. Maybe it wasn't "real jazz," but it was really good. Nothing was so sweet and staid that it made you wince and the excitement was certainly back. Kickin' It Up continues along these lines, and if it isn't as well constructed as Groovology, it will at least keep the Albright faithful coming back. Albright still plays the jazz-pop that's kept him in the money, but once again he adds little flourishes and playful embellishments that are the textbook definition of jazz. A rotating group of musicians keeps the album from having any honest live feeling (no one ever "responds" to any of the other musicians), and there's almost as much drum programming as there is real drumming. The various groupings at least sound tight, and whenever Albright is coupled with Jeff Lorber he's extra effervescent. Former Boyz II Men vocalist Shawn Stockman pillow talks his way through the Brian McKnight-penned "Condition of My Heart" better than Justin Guarini did, and Albright's inspired arrangement and performance of John Mayer's "Why Georgia" captures the wistful, wandering spirit of the original. A couple formulaic numbers keep the record from being a total success, but there's less of it than during his worst Atlantic days and every song has at least one eyebrow-raising passage. The jazz elite will refuse to recognize him until he delivers another Birdland West, but they're missing his new voice, and judging by how comfy he sounds here, he probably shouldn't go back. Since going with GRP Albright finally added comfortable and freewheeling to amiable, smooth, and relaxed. A fair album -- like this one -- from the new Albright beats a very good one from the old, controlled Albright. ~David Jeffries

Kickin' It Up

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Jeff Lorber - He Had A hat

Styles: Piano Jazz

Year: 2007

File: MP3@320K/s

Time: 52:22

Size: 120,3 MB

Art: Front

(3:48)  1. Anthem For A New America

(4:34)  2. He Had A Hat

(4:06)  3. Grandma's Hands

(4:10)  4. Surreptitious

(4:25)  5. All Most Blues

(3:54)  6. Orchid (Chris Botti)

(2:28)  7. BC Bop

(5:35)  8. The Other Side of the Heart (Paula Cole)

(3:58)  9. Hudson

(3:52) 10. Super Fusion Unit

(3:50) 11. Eye Tunes

(3:43) 12. Requiem for Gandalf

(3:52) 13. Burn Brightly

A sophisticated showcase for his varied jazz styles, Jeff Lorber's He Had a Hat finds the pianist moving from softly funky pop-jazz numbers to a few straight-ahead swingers. Always an urbane and tasteful musician, Lorber has often found a good balance between contemporary pop oriented material and more cerebral improvisational cuts, and He Had a Hat is a prime example of this duality. To these ends, tracks like the title cut and the frenetic "Surreptitious" evince a kind of Tower of Power meets Brecker Brothers funk. Fittingly, trumpeter Randy Brecker adds his supple chops to the latter track. Similarly engaging big-band numbers like "All Most Blues" and the afterglow ballad "Orchid" bring to mind both early- and late-period Miles Davis, respectively. Also joining Lorber here are a bevy of name artists including trumpeter Chris Botti, vocalist Paula Cole, saxophonist Gerald Albright, and many others.This CD was nominated for a Grammy award in 2007 for Best Contemporary Jazz Album. ~ Matt Collar http://www.allmusic.com/album/he-had-a-hat-mw0000478929

Personnel:  Jeff Lorber – Piano & Keyboards (All Tracks);  Eric Benet – Vocals (Track 3 & 8);  Paula Cole – Vocals (Track 8);  Hubert Laws – Flute (Tracks 9 & 11);  Bob Sheppard – Tenor saxophone (Tracks 6 & 9);  Gerald Albright – Alto saxophone (Track 3);  Kirk Whalum – Tenor saxophone (Track 2);Ada Rovatti – Tenor saxophone (Track 4);  Chris Botti – Trumpet (Tracks 6 & Bonus Track);  Randy Brecker – Trumpet & Horn Arrangement (Track 4);  Jacques Voyemant – Trombone (Track 2);  Tom Scott – Horns & Horn Arrangement (Tracks 2 & 5);  Paul Jackson Jr. – Guitar (Tracks 2, 3, 4, 8 & 10);Paul Brown – Guitar (Track 3);  Russell Malone – Guitar (Track 13);  Brian Bromberg – Bass (Tracks 1, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12 & Bonus Track);  Alex Al – Bass (Tracks 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10 & 13);  Lenny Castro – Percussion (Tracks 2, 3, 9, 10, 12, 13 & Bonus Track);  Abe Laboriel Jr. – Drums (Tracks 1, 2, 3, 8 & 9); Dave Weckl – Drums (Tracks 4 & 13);  Vinnie Colaiuta – Drums (Tracks 5, 6, 7, 11, 12 & Bonus Track);  Blood, Sweat & Tears – Horns (Tracks 4, 7, 9, 11 & 13);  The Lair Studio Brass Ensemble (Tracks 5, 10 & 12);  The Krim Symphonic Orchestra – Orchestrated by Jeremy Lubbock (Tracks 1 & 8);
Bobby Colomby – Producer (All Tracks).

He Had A hat

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Gerald Albright - Sax For Stax

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 51:01
Size: 116.8 MB
Styles: Crossover jazz, Saxophone jazz
Year: 2008
Art: Front

[5:05] 1. Theme From The Men
[4:05] 2. Knock On Wood
[4:14] 3. Never Can Say Goodbye
[4:53] 4. Memphis Passion
[5:03] 5. Respect Yourself
[5:08] 6. I Stand Accused
[4:20] 7. Cheaper To Keep Her
[4:30] 8. Walkin' Down Beale Street
[4:48] 9. What You See Is What You Get
[4:14] 10. Who's Making Love
[4:36] 11. W.C. Handy Hop

Sax for Stax by Gerald Albright features Will Downing, Ledisi, Kirk Whalum, and Philip Bailey. Gerald Albright has been serving up "Sweet Pain" on his soulful saxophone for an ever-growing audience that spans across R&B, "Quiet Storm," traditional jazz and smooth jazz lines. Albright once again demonstrates his unique soulful sound while paying homage to one of the greatest eras of american music history.

Sax For Stax

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