Saturday, July 25, 2009

--=[ DJ I.N.C ]=--













DJ I.N.C - Tha Afterset (2006)

This CD has an Acidjazz/Neo Soul Vibe to it...Hip Hop production along with Jazz Musicianship. A great listen.

“I find to be necessity controlling positive destiny…” so goes the rhythmic intro to THE AFTERSET: SELECT MUSIC PROGRAMMING. DJ I.N.C. delivers up music for the people concentrating on the feel and vibe not just the genre. This recording is cool and sexy first, followed by jazzy and soulful with elements of Hip Hop, funk and chill. This very satisfying album is graced by some of the finest musicians in the world including bassist/songwriter Marzuq Asanti, saxophonist/singer Marqueal Jordan, trumpeter Kafele, guitarist Phil Seed and percussionist Joe Rendon. The concept DJ I.N.C. puts into play on this project is the premise that like jazz and soul, Hip Hop is timeless, and the evolution of the sound is what is commonly referred to as Acid Jazz… a rich tapestry of musical styles. There’s no doubt that music fans will whole-heartedly embrace this deep and artful offering of sexy and smooth Nu Jazz from one of the most progressive and trend-setting musical talents to come along!

Track listing is in comments section.

--=[ Donald Patterson ]=--













Donald Patterson - Family (2009)

Bassist Donald Patterson's debut contemporary smooth jazz CD with a touch of R&B featuring top recording artists Peter White, Kirk Whalum, Doc Powell and others.

Donald Patterson was born in Dallas, Texas. Donald is a professional bassist who is skilled in the electric bass and has performed extensively throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe and Japan. Patterson has performed in concert with a host of artists including Phillip Bailey, Kirk Whalum, Howard Hewett, Brian Mcknight and a host of others. He has also toured throughout the U.S. with Peter White, Marc Antoine, Rick Braun and Kirk Whalum in Guitars, and Saxes. Donald has recorded with such notable artists as Ray Charles, and Kirk Whalum and can be heard on the Grammy nominated CD Motown Comes Home.

Track listing is in comments section.

Friday, July 24, 2009

--=[ Peaches & Herb ]=--













Peaches & Herb - Colors Of Love (2009)

After 20+ years, Peaches and Herb are back on the Imagen Records label with a brand new CD entitled "Colors of Love." This CD is a collection of 11 songs containing the best of today’s contemporary music, while continuing to stay true to their old-school roots. Making up the female half of this powerful new duo, Herb Fame enlisted the talents of an incredibly fine ass gifted vocalist to take on the reigns of 'Peaches' - Meritxell (pronounced 'mary-chell') Negre-Williams. Her voice brings a fresh quality to the duo that most certainly represents Peaches and Herb at the best that they've ever been.

And the chemistry between these two is amazing, as heard on the songs Spend the Night, Dance Floor and Higher. Many artists and groups seem to lose touch with their roots by trying to accommodate a more modern sound to appeal to a wider audience, but this album shows that Peaches & Herb was able to keep their sound fresh and exciting without compromise.

Tracklist in comments.

--=[ Manami Morita ]=--













Manami Morita - Colors (2009)

Manami Morita is a pianist from Japan. This is her first album by her own production. It features Zak Croxall on bass, Bob Edinger and Thomas Hartman on drum.

Manami Morita was born in Saitama, Japan in 1984. She started off with learning classical piano at the age of 4. Unfortunately, she hated piano lessons because she couldn't stand so much rules in classical piano. On the other hand, she loved playing just as she wanted and felt, which she was able to do in jazz.

As soon as she got to Berklee in Boston, her significant musical skills was recognized by school. In 2007, she was awarded Mary Jane Earnhart Endowed Scholarship. Also, in 2008, she was honorably selected as a representative of Jazz Composition Department at Berklee and awarded Herb Pomeroy Award. In 2009, she joined International Kodolanyi Jazz Competition in Hungary with Tenor Saxphone player Mitsuru Hirayama and won 3rd prize. Also, she was awarded Outstanding Performer Award at the same competition.

Manami has performed with internationally acclaimed musicians such as Esperanza Spalding, Greg Hopkins, Mark Walker, Rosa Pasos, Oscar Stagnaro and more. Also, she appeared at Martha's Vineyard Music Festival in 2008 with other groups such as Boston Pops, Gladys Knight, Kate Taylor. She has played at famous jazz clubs in Boston such as Sculler's Jazz Club, Ryle's Jazz Club, the Beehive and more and more.

We always show love for not only those independent artists who not only play well, and Manami Morita is no exception. Folks, she's one to keep an eye on in the future!

Tracklist in comments.

--=[ bird 3 ]=--













Bird - Covers (2009)

Our favorite incognito singer from Japan is back with a cover album simply titled "Covers." This album features cover songs from her previous releases, in addition to "You Can't Hurry Love" by The Supremes.

If you're a fan of Bird you may wanna cop this to tide you over until she drops her next studio album!

Tracklist in comments.

--=[ Al Williams III ]=--













Al Williams III - Heart Song (2008)

Heart Song is the latest offering from sax and flute man, Al Williams III, on the "Pacific Coast Jazz" label. Produced by one of the most talented all around musicians in the business, John Stoddart, the CD contains eleven tracks of groovin', soulful sax and flute propelled by the finest rhythm section players around. Spyro Gyra's Scott Ambush (bass) and Tom Shuman (keys) appear on the Ambush penned "Skyline Drive." Drummer/producer Eric Valentine makes a strong appearance on several tracks along with bassists Alex Al, David Dyson and Chris Kent. Gorgeous, soulful vocals are delivered by jazz festival headliner Ron Gutierrez and producer John Stoddart. Enjoy great performances by trumpeter Aaron Broadus, guitarist Michael Ripoll and a host of others. Add to that a final mix by Dave Rideau, and Heart Song by Al Williams III is one killer CD.

Track listing is in comments section.

--=[ J.P. DeLaire ]=--













J.P. DeLaire - In My Life (2009)

Jason Peterson Delaire, a member of the Peterson family of Minneapolis, is known as a prolific saxophonist, keyboardist and singer. He toured with such artists as Oleta Adams, Prince, Alexander O’Neal, Richard Marx, Solo, Donny Osmond, and Cherrelle and recorded with Michael Bolton, Alexander O’Neal, Prince, Donny Osmond, as well as Bobby Brown, Ben Sidran and Flyte Time Productions.

Designated as a smooth jazz musician his solo project In My Life is although pure R&B. Well, the influence of Prince on DeLaire's music is undisputable. It was DeLaire's top hit In My Life, which allured my attention. And indeed the video of this song was one of the most viewed in 2008 on YouTube.

The album attracts with wonderful ballads like Never Enough or Prodigal Sun presenting DeLaire as splendid R&B singer. The groovy I Need Your Love is flirting with vocoderized vocals.
But it's the title song which levels the album to a superior project. Something that could be penned by Prince himself. Gotta Keep The Funk Alive let's your spinning top move. While Last Call is a turntable spin-off with a nice sax overlay.

More fundamental R&B groove is placed in Special Lady. While We Can't Go On searches the emotion in retro soul. Heartfelt ballades like Living With A Broken Heart and True Love will evoke sentiments of the female audience.

Track listing is in comments section.

--=[ Kashif 3 ]=--













Kashif - Love Changes (1987)

AS REQUESTED

While recognized and respected as one of the 1980s most important ,prolific and innovative R&B producers and songwriters Kashif never enjoyed the success and recognition he deserved as a recording artist.

Some of the songs on this album ("Somebody","It All Begins Again",Midnight Mood"--the latter featuring a very smooth and sultry sax solo from Kenny G.) had definite crossover appeal. Like its three predecessors "Love Changes" was a fine album that did not receive its due acclaim.

Track listing is in comments section.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

--=[ Jazzida Grande 2 ]=--


Jazzida Grande - Petits Morceaux L (2009)Jazzida Grande - Petits Morceaux R (2009)

The long-awaited new album is finally released! Now more than ever, Jazzida Grande (born Kiyoshi Ikegami) claims his place as one of Tokyo's best musicians. Petits Morceaux, his latest effort, explores pop territory in addition to his classic jazztronica sound, which makes for two very HOT EPs! All 12 tracks are quality, so don't miss out on this here HEAT!

* thanks to Colinb *

Tracklists in comments.

--=[ Idea6 ]=--













Idea6 - Idea6 Remix (2007)

More great remixes from the Idea 6 album -- with some great help from Quasimode and Sunaga T! "Tune Up" is taken into even jazzier territory by Quasimode -- who warm things up beautifully with their version of the tune, and add in some added acoustic instrumentation as well! Sunaga T takes off nicely with "Junior Is Back" -- vamping the cut with a jazzy club rhythm, and adding in extra instrumentation by members of Jabberloop!













Idea6 - Metropoli (2005)

A brilliant session of Italian jazz -- recorded with the depth and spirit of some of the classics that were reissued years ago by the Right Tempo label, and soaring with that uniquely tight sound that was bubbling on the Italian scene of the 60s and early 70s! The groove here is a mix of modal and hardbop influences -- played by a sextet that includes Gianni Basso on saxes, Dino Piana on trombone, Guido Pistocchi on trumpet, and Andrea Pozza on piano. All tracks are originals -- and all are wonderfully fresh -- bristling with the kind of electricity that makes us love some of our favorite Blue Note albums of the 60s, especially work from Hank Mobley and Lee Morgan! CD features10 tracks in all -- including "Train Up", "Minor Mood", "Metropoli", "New Born", "Autumn In Milano", "Pittura", "Vivacita", and "Windy Coast". Japanese version features different mastering -- with a bit more of a "60s" feel!

Tracklists in comments.

--=[ Georgia Anne Muldrow ]=--













Georgia Anne Muldrow - Umsindo (2009)

UMSINDO (which means sound in Zulu) is Muldrow’s second full length album and tells this story with subject matter ranging from world politics to the metaphysical sciences-with laserlike synthwork to match. Muldrow, who birthed the new millennium hip-hop soul movement, is the producer/singer/songwriter phenomenon who keeps on giving.

Umsindo is dedicated to Muldrow’s African heritage with themes of creation and calls to wake up the consciousness to all who hear it. This Afro-centric gem of an album speaks to the Zulu warriors whose lineage goes back before the planet, where the power of sound is paramount.

* thanks enrico *

Tracklist in comments.

--=[ Van Hunt 2 ]=--













Van Hunt - Use In Case Of Emergency (2009)

While a release like this could be a bunch of throwaway tracks meant only for the die-hard fans, the album has a few noteworthy songs. “Her Smile” is a bittersweet, working-class ballad, perfect recession music. “Sexy (I’m Not Known for Dancing)” succeeds despite its somewhat cringe-worthy hook (“sexy sexy love, sexy sexy love”) on the strength of the spare arrangement and Van Hunt’s space alien falsetto. The original version of “On the Jungle Floor’s” “Hot Stage Lights,” here called “Man of the Year,” is a bouncy punk/funk mix that allows Van Hunt to showcase his inner-Prince.
Overall, Use in Case of Emergency lacks the strong singles of Van Hunt’s debut, and isn’t quite as fully-realized as On the Jungle Floor, but it’s a fun listen. Van Hunt fans will definitely want to check it out, and while newer listeners should probably start at the beginning of his short-yet-strong discography, they’ll probably enjoy this one too.

Track listing is in comments section.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

--=[ Root Soul ]=--













Root Soul - Root Soul (2009)

Bassist Kenichi Ikeda, aka Root Soul, has been a regular member of the Kyoto Jazz Massive live band for some time as well as making guest appearances on various different recording sessions over the years. In the last couple of years we have been treated to some great singles on Especial Records, and now his eponymous debut album has dropped at last. The album was co-produced by Root Soul and Shuya Okino, and they have created a very solid sound and an album full of club tunes. All this quality is reflected in what is overall a very strong set of songs.

The album has a good mix of vocal and instrumental tracks and also it hits a nice balance between retro and contemporary sounds. And this album will blow your mind, so strap on your seatbelt and give praise for the funk!

Tracklist in comments.

--=[ Mark Allen Felton ]=--













Mark Allen Felton - I Do It For Love (2008)

Velvety sax, sweet melodies, and beautifully crafted songs make up the foundation of Mark Allen Felton’s 4th CD, “I Do It For Love”.

With multiple layers of instrumentation accompanied by Felton’s trademark silky soprano saxophone and a natural instinct for keeping the groove. Felton is able to combine the technique of a virtuoso with the pure essence of emotion, all while constructing a well produced, hook-filled, Jazz/R&B CD that appeals to a wide demographic of fans.

Felton’s “I Do It For Love” gives the listener a certain peace of mind and transports them to a place of divine sensual tranquility. Making them feel as if they don't have a care in the world, no bills, money in their pocket, in love, and all they want to do is eat, drink, and be merry.
A mixture of 10 sexy, melodiously seductive tracks as well as two interludes “I Do It For Love” promises to put listeners in the mood for love.

“I Do It For Love” is a CD that doesn't hide Felton's emotion, but does the opposite. It opens a window to his soul. Providing the listener with a deep craving for it after a long arduous day. This is the brilliance of multi-talented Mark Allen Felton in action.

Track listing is in comments section.

--=[ AJ ]=--













AJ - Joyride + One (2007)

A melting mix of jazz, R&B, pop and soul

A re-release of a soul-full, superbly crafted music experience. Joy Ride + One features all of the great songs from the original Joy Ride CD plus, the smash single, Crazy For Your Love.

The correct pronunciation is “ahhsh” and äj is actually the combination of the first initials of the duo: Andrea and James Rohlehr (“Rolair”).

The Rohlehrs are an incredibly interesting and musically gifted couple. Married 13 years, they partner professionally as vocalists, songwriters, musicians, producers and music educators. They have worked with a variety of stellar artists including Regina Carter, bassist Muzz Skillings (formerly of Living Colour), Cuba Gooding Sr. of The Main Ingredient, Ashford & Simpson and Nancy Wilson. In 1997 the Rohlehr were winners of the President’s Award for Songwriting from the Songwriters Guild of America for Excellence in the Art and Craft of Songwriting. For JOYRIDE + ONE the goal as Andrea states was “to write and perform songs that invite people to relax.

If you like Maysa you'll enjoy this album.

Track listing is in comments section.

--=[ Bohemianvoodoo ]=--













Bohemianvoodoo - Bohemian Bazaar (2009)

We've scoured the globe for almost seven months looking for this one, and everyone seemed to be sold out. Folks, you're looking at perhaps one of the rarest jazz EPs to have ever been released in Japan, and these four songs are tighter than vice grips!

Bohemianvoodoo is a four-piece from Yokohama featuring guitar, keyboards, bass and drums that offer up jazz-tinged instrumentals. Now be warned, this is not for you if you're into crazy horns and riffs throughout each measure, like Soil & Pimp Sessions; this group's music is very smooth and the sound is very much polished. It's the kind of music you might hear in the background in a cafe or on a smooth jazz radio station, which for some of us is perfect!

Hopefully, their full-length debut will not be as difficult to find and purchase!

* eternal thanks to Ste and Tenki Sensei *

Tracklist in comments.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

--=[ Rob Juice 2 ]=--













Rob Juice - Tall Glass Of Juice (2007)

Link 2

Tall Glass of Juice" aptly describes the music of Rob Juice...delicious to the senses, electrifying and mesmerizing. He is an original, his music gets into your skin within minutes. The songs stir your heart deep down mellowing you into a peaceful state of mind. You can get lost in his music within minutes of listening to it. Like a nice delicious glass of juice, you will want more than just a tall glass. You'll want to spend time letting it soak through the pores of your skin; your mind; your heart. Juice has the "JUICE"

Track listing is in comments section.













Rob Juice - From Danger With Love (2006)

Link 2

The Beats come out of Juice's MIND like popcorn, the hooks pop out like a smooth Butter knife. Juice's writing style, art-form is a kinda cool Thrill-Drill. Rob Juice has arrived.
This is one of the most versitile artists' of our era. To make such quality music is so amazing, playin all instruments via computer and live trumpet just means this is the kind of musician record labels would crave. Just listen to the new ideas of creativity.
The album is Sexy, tasteful, Hot, Wet and down right devilishly Soulful in a sensual way. Bringing to mind the many colors of Jazz. Juice’s high-end urban beats blur the Line between Jazz, R&B, POP and Hip Hop.


Rob Juice – BadBoy Love (2008)


Track listing is in comments section.

--=[ The O'Jays 2 ]=--














The O'Jays - Together We Are One [2004]

"Together We Are One" consists of tracks originally recorded in the late '70s and '80s by producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff that were not used on O'Jays albums of the time. Now resurrected, the tracks have been updated with new overdubs including vocal performances by O'Jays members Eddie Levert and Walter Williams. Leadoff track "All Eyes on Africa" was on the 1985 Love Fever album in a later version, but the rest of the songs are unheard before. The title song is a typically moving ballad from Linda Creed. Otherwise, the music, while enjoyable and characteristic of the O'Jays' work with Gamble & Huff, is relatively minor.

There is not one track on this CD that doesn't make you want to either get up and dance around the room, sing out loud, or wish for the days long gone when music really made you feel good.No fillers to be found here, just the pure "Philly Sound". Many tracks date back to the Mid & Late 70's, but still stand up to many of the current O'Jays recordings.














The O'Jays - Imagination [2004]

It is always refreshing - even comforting - to hear a new O'Jays album. Especially in 2004, when it is impossible to hear solid group soul on the radio and nearly as tough to find it on CD. And the O'Jays have been doing it so long and so well, I listen to any album by them predisposed to liking it -- even if it is a fairly average O'Jays disc such as Imagination. Since the O'Jays' departure from PIR over a decade ago, their albums have generally boasted fantastic vocal work but inconsistent material and production, and Imagination continues that trend. However, amidst the uneven cuts are a few gems. The disc's high point is the title cut, the O'Jays' first collaboration with hitmakers Jimmy Jam/Terry Lewis. It is a fantastic midtempo number that should have steppers dancing all winter and which stands with the O'Jays' best Philadelphia work. Equally engaging is "Make Up," a simmering slow cut that recalls their great 80s ballads "Your Body's Here With Me" and "Hurry Up and Come Back." Eddie Levert and Walter Williams' alternating lead vocals are excellent throughout, especially on the other Jam/Lewis number, "Why You Wanna," and on "Made It Back" and "Chauvinistic." While the remainder of the cuts aren't as memorable, the performances are, and the disc's bright spots make Imagination another O'Jays disc worth owning.














The O'Jays - So Full of Love [1978]

This was the biggest hit album The O'Jays ever enjoyed, even though it wasn't as aesthetically transcendent as Ship Ahoy. But it came at the right time; there weren't many great group albums being produced in R&B at the time, and that's what this really was, even if Eddie Levert took most of the leads. "Use Ta Be My Girl" was a triumphant success, while "Brandy" was the prototype album cut that became a hit through popular demand.














The O'Jays - Collectors' Items [1977]

Collectors' Items is an O'Jays compilation with a narrow range (basically 1972-76), a contradictory title, and odd sequencing, but a parade of huge hits that make up for any of its other faults. Using two LPs (or one CD, in its digital incarnation) to collect songs from only six albums, the set has plenty of room to anthologize all of the smooth Philly soul trio's biggest singles from the early- to mid-'70s: "Love Train," "Back Stabbers," "I Love Music," "Give the People What They Want," "Livin' for the Weekend." Even though all of the songs that had to be here are here, a few bizarre choices make this less than the definitive compilation of their time: why take "Sunshine" from 1972's Back Stabbers, but not the far superior "Time to Get Down" or "992 Arguments" (or both)? Why use "Darlin' Darlin' Baby (Sweet Tender Love)" from 1976's Message in Our Music, but not the gorgeous title track? These few questionable decisions aside, Collectors' Items delivers exactly what fans expect, and there is actually one item for the collectors: a previously unreleased cover of "Wildflower," a recent hit for the Canadian group Skylark as well as the New Birth.














The O'Jays - Survival [1975]

Not one of their most classic Philly LPs, but still a nice batch of soul tracks with the usual perfect Gamble-Huff production, and harmonies that definitely go the distance! Tracks include "What Am I Waiting For", "Give The People What They Want", "Rich Get Richer", and "Never Break Us Up".














The O'Jays - Family Reunion [1975]

A great sense of righteousness and groove -- the key mix that made the O'Jays so great back in the day -- and which really helped put the Philly International enterprise on the map! The album's miles from the group's simple harmony soul roots -- even though those were pretty darn great -- and it blends together soaring backings with a sweet Gamble/Huff finish, and really makes some magic in the way the whole thing comes off. Titles include the great mellow ballad "Stairway To Heaven", the party groovers "Livin For The Weekend" and "I Love Music" -- and the cuts "Unity", "You & Me", and "She's Only A Woman".

The O'Jays - Cry Together




All track info is in the comment section...

Monday, July 20, 2009

--=[ Paris Match 3 ]=--













Paris Match - Passion8 (2009)

The trio of Yosuke Sugiyama, Mari Mizuno and Tai Furusawa is back with their eighth studio album, Passion8! Like their previous efforts, this album continues on with that fusion of diverse musical genres including bossa nova, jazz, acid-jazz, soul, blue-eyed soul and house! The album cover seems to indicate that a toast is in order for this album, and yes, we shall toast to that!

* props to Tenki Sensei *

Tracklist in comments.

--=[ Teena Marie 4 ]=--













Teena Marie - Passion Play [Rare][1994]

Passion Play is the tenth album by Teena Marie, released in 1994. Marie had parted company with Epic Records following disappointing sales of her 1990 album Ivory, and Passion Play was released on her own independent label, Sarai. Without the backing of a major label, the album received only limited distribution and sold modestly despite being highly-regarded by Marie's hardcore fans. The CD has long been out of print and is one of the most sought-after items in Marie's catalogue.

Passion Play contains guest contributions from Lenny Kravitz ("Main Squeeze") and rapper Yo-Yo ("Sweet on You"). It also includes a cover of the Linda Jones classic "Hypnotized". "Warm as Momma's Oven" was released as a single,













Teena Marie - It Must Be Magic [Extra Tracks][2002]

This CD is one of Teena's best recordings. With two members of the famous Temptations singing background, Teena gives us clarity on what it means to be diverse. On this disc, there's some rap, jazz, funk and soul. By far, "It Must Be Magic" was the hit album in the year of 1981.

The addition of the previously unreleased tracks, along with the 12-inch instrumental version of "Biz", are just added to placate contemporary listeners who feel that longer is better.

Teena Marie – Congo Square [2009]

All track info is in the comment section...

--=[ Gil Parris ]=--













Gil Parris - Gil Parris (1998)

When a producer studs an artists' debut with an impressive all-star guest list, he runs the risk of overshadowing the leader. Not the case with a new CD by Gil Parris. Although half of Fourplay (Bob James and Harvey Mason), David Sanborn, Mark Egan, and Will Lee were invited to Parris' coming-out party, it's obvious that the 28-year-old guitarist wasn't intimidated.

Parris shows an equal facility for electric and acoustic and clearly has been influenced by Larry Carlton. He also holds his own by writing engaging melodies, by adeptly shifting dynamics (often employing distorted electric sounds and graceful acoustic tones on the same piece), and by hitting solo heights that would please fans of both George Benson and Eddie Van Halen.

On "Starting Over," Sanborn plays a simmering harmony behind Parris' lead. Then the two soar together on the hook before Parris takes a crunching, rock-flavored solo. "What Will It Take" displays an even greater buildup, moving from a fluffy, tropical-flavored intro to a blistering fit of aggression.

Parris also varies the clarity of his tone to good effect. On the melancholy "An Ardent Man," he uses a dark, murky sound that, in the company of Egan's gloomy bass, creates a fog of romantic confusion. Then, on "Midnight Rendezvous," the crispness of his sound evokes a brilliant moon passing through the clouds. On "It's a Lie," Parris alternates between that clear, Neal Schon-like tone and a crying country twang. All and all, an impressive beginning.













Gil Parris - Strength (2006)

Gil Parris is jazz guitarist and a rising star in the modern jazz, blues-rock and light funk genres. The critically acclaimed guitarist has been compared to jazz legend Larry Carlton, and has already been a part of over 20 collaborative music projects. Gil Parris is one of the few artists that have nationally released albums in over four different genres: R&B, smooth jazz, traditional jazz and blues.

“Strength” is sure to please any music enthusiast, and especially fans of jazz guitar and improvisation. With 10 new tracks, “Strength” exhibits Gil’s unique hybrid sound that has made him one of the top high-demand session players in New York.













Gil Parris - A Certain Beauty (2009)

"Parris is an absolute monster of the guitar- lyrically, technically, sensitively. His finesse blending tones and contouring the dynamics throughout his lines truly gave the sense that he is speaking thru the notes!"

Grammy-nominated guitar virtuoso known for his special blend of Blues, Jazz, Rock and Smooth Jazz. Passionate melodies combined with timeless guitar work. With guest stars Chris Botti, David Sanborn, Randy Brecker, Will Lee, Gloria Loring and Bob Baldwin.

Track listing is in comments section.

Sunday, July 19, 2009

--=[ Mark Portmann 2 ]=--













Mark Portmann - Westside (2004)

A best-kept secret in the business. Having quickly gained a considerable reputation as a talented producer, arranger, and musician for some of the biggest stars in music, Mark Portmann steps comfortably into the spotlight as a solo artist with his 3rd solo album, WESTSIDE. The album gives Grammy-nominated arranger and accomplished keyboardist an opportunity to a return of his rich, lyrical, pop flavored jazz melodies to a growing audience of fans. This album all started with putting together my dream team of musicians.

Two different rhythm sections were put together to make this all live recording. One section includes Harvey Mason (Fourplay) on drums with Freddy Washington, Jr (remember the bass line on "Forget Me Nots"), and Paul Jackson, Jr. on gtrs. The other groovemasters include Vinnie Coluita (world reknown) & Steve Ferrone (E. Clapton, Tom Petty) with Neil Stubenhuas on bass and Michael Landau guitar.

Other musicians include: Michael Paulo (sax), Scott Kreitzer (sax), Freddy Washington, Jr (bass), Neil Stubenhaus (bass), Michael Landau (gtr), Paul Jackson, Jr (gtr), Raphael Padilla (percussion), Steve Ferrone (drums), Vinnie Coluita (drums), Bernie Dresel (drums), Leslie Smith (vocals), Mark Portmann (piano, keyboards, programming, arranging, producer).

Track listing is in comments section.

--=[ Toni Redd ]=--













Toni Redd - 'N' The Key Of Redd (2009)


Songstress Toni Redd is an internationally known powerhouse performer and entertainer. Though regarded as a smooth R & B singer, Redd is an intense vocalist whose style is infused with R & B, contemporary smooth jazz, and classical soul; these elements combined create her unique and distinct powerful ambience.

Her vocal capabilities are so rich that a reviewer with the Atlanta Journal Constitution concluded that, “when Toni Redd performs it is always a musical treat.” Additional reviews state that, “Her vocals are sultry and emotional, from the heart is exactly where her vocals come from.

In her illustrious career, she has had the honor of performing and sharing concert billing with Najee, Gerald Albright, Jonathan Butler, The Rippingtons, Pieces Of A Dream, Alex Bugnon, Angela Bofill, Rick Braun, Everette Harp, The Yellowjackets, Gerald Austin, Stanley Jordan, Brian Bromberg, Steve Cole, Fattburger, Chico Debarge, Pamela Williams, The Temptations, Warren Hill, Oleta Adams, The Stylistics, Walter Beasley, Steve Laury, Joe McBride, Marion Meadows, and Kim Waters.
Toni is also a featured vocalist on Fattburger’s “Fattburger.com” and Bob Baldwin’s “New Urban Jazz.com”.

Track listing is in comments section.

--=[ Cinematone ]=--













Cinematone - Smooth Deluxe (2009)

Link 2

Cinematone is a collaboration of Hollywood’s finest studio musicians under the direction of film composer Leonard Rogowski. Their album Smooth Deluxe is enchanting atmospheric music featuring modern smooth jazz grooves with new age undertones for easy listening pleasure.

Track listing is in comments section.