Listening Loft Store

While pop fans everywhere have an enduring affection for Gregory Abbott’s debut single and global #1 hit “Shake You Down,” they may not know that the NYC bred singer/songwriter is of Venezuelan and Antiguan origin and has infused his Smooth Jazz songs since 2020 with inspiration from his Caribbean, Latin and R&B roots. His aesthetic as a lifelong musical explorer leads him now to tap into his great passion for Brazilian jazz on his breezy and high spirited, tropical flavored new single “Brazil Is Inside Me (Como Em Casa”) featuring cheerful female backing vocals and a vibe that perfectly reflects the charm and warmth of the Brazilian culture and how it can stick with you even after just one visit to the enchanting country. 
 

Starting with the aptly titled 2022 EP GROOVE INFECTION, the high-spirited, ever-poppin' team of acclaimed German guitarist Uli Brodersen and keyboardist/composer Amandus (aka Michael Quast) have been a prolific force in Smooth Jazz. Vibing now as the trio AMB with veteran drummer Alvin Mills - who's collaborated with the likes of Jeff Lorber and Ronan Keating - the three debut their fresh, sparkling, feel-good sound on their first single "In the Curve." Driven by a killer keyboard melody and featuring an inventive, improvisational guitar solo, the track is everything we've come to expect from Brodersen and Amandus, with the added bonus of Mills' nonstop groove.

There’s a very good reason why the wildly versatile “Uptown Saxman” Edmond Baker Jr. waited over a decade to deliver his latest album, the supremely vibey, silky, funky and spirited JUS DOIN MY THANG. It’s because he's busy! As the “the only full time, independent solo saxophonist in the entire state of Texas,” the musician has literally been gigging non-stop for high-end clients and audiences as well as worthy fundraisers. Baker’s triumphant return to the studio results in an instantly engaging collection of inviting Smooth Jazz, full of passionate and emotional playing, with smoky and energetic licks and sparkling arrangements steeped in classic blues and soulful influences. 

Anytime we're graced with a sensuous new single from veteran Grammy nominated vocal charmer Sylvia Bennett, it's appropriate to mention her multi-lingual skills (Spanish and French) and multitude of jazz accolades, including performing with Lionel Hampton and working with Smooth Jazz greats Paul Brown, Rick Braun and Nathan East. Yet she's also been lighting up the genre charts for a couple of decades - an impressive streak that will surely continue with "I Still Love You," a sumptuous, reflective, saxophone-spiced ballad whose overall sense of melancholy is tinged with touches of gratitude and ultimately, hope.

Fueled by a dope, hypnotic electronic percussion pattern and a rich, funky melodic saxophone swirl, Louisiana native Jeremy Benoit’s wildly adventurous new single “Just Feels Right” offers Smooth Jazz danceability at its finest – and lets newcomers to his all-encompassing sonic experience understand the magic that long ago earned him the nickname “The Real JB Saax.” Launching his career as part of the music ministry at Lafayette’s Good Hope Baptist Church, faith and gospel music (not to mention Charlie Parker, Gerald Albright and David Sanborn) have been huge influences in a solo career that began with the album JEREMY JAZZ, back in 2018. Get ready for more from this rising star!

Following years as a first call studio and touring backing vocalist for everyone from Earth, Wind & Fire to Stevie Wonder and Boney James, Kimberly Brewer has established herself as a popular Smooth Jazz artist, with singles featuring Walter Beasley, Maysa and Gerald Albright. On her latest, she pays homage to the legendary Quincy Jones, bringing her silky, seductive voice to a hip, rhythmically edgy twist on his 1976 Leon Ware-Minnie Riperton sung classic “If I Ever Lose This Heaven.” This horn-punched version was produced by Chris “Big Dog” Davis and features the sweet, soaring flute of Ragan Whiteside.  

The title of veteran guitarist dee Brown’s sixth full length album MISTER SMOOTH isn’t just a riff on being an influential Smooth Jazz hitmaker, it’s a hip persona of a man and musician he says “is consistently on top of things and maintains control in every situation.” With several titles (“Charismatic,” “Charming,” “Finesse”) that capture aspects of this aesthetic, Brown is at the top of his crisp, coolly melodic game, bringing fresh silk and funk (along with dashes of disco and rock!) to a set of eight fire originals, a whimsical Sister Sledge cover and his recent holiday streaming hit, "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas." 

A onetime Top 10 winner in Jazziz Magazine’s Woodwinds on Fire competition judged by Michael Brecker, Eddie Daniels and David Murray, saxophonist Damian Cremisio has performed with countless legends and shared the stage with Rob Thomas, Gavin DeGraw, Harry Connick Jr. and Ben E. King. As leader of Damian and DCQ (Damian Cremisio Quartet which has actually turned into a Sextet), he’s off to a jamming, high-powered start in Smooth Jazz with the Sandy Shore / Peet Ferencz produced, instantly infectious debut single “Saturday With You,” in honor of the recording artist’s father, whom he has fond childhood memories of, especially of their Saturday outings. While Damian’s blistering sax melody and solo are front and center, his core ensemble and guest musicians bring equal amounts of heat! Catch Damian and DCQ live in the NY, NJ and PA tri-state area this spring and summer. 

Besides raw musical talent, sometimes the difference between a working artist and a major star is that hard-to-define quality of “Charisma” – the essence of drawing effortless attraction. This dynamic power track has it! The collaboration between De Lacy and the chart-topping production duo of Peet Ferencz (Peet Project) and SJG Founder Sandy Shore, showcases the up and coming saxophonist in a bold light. Following the success of his funky, 2024 debut single, "Hi There!," this new piece offers a soaring ethereal atmosphere with angelic vocal textures behind the silky passion of his deeply heartfelt performance and elevated energy. 

In years of touring the U.S., Europe and Asia, award winning KC native and Seattle-based bassist/composer E. Pruitt is likely the only Smooth Jazz artist to open for Gerald Albright, B.B. King and Sir Mix-a-Lot. The 2025 Remix version of his single “What Do You Say” features a free-flowing fusion of easy thumping bass, intoxicating wah and electric guitars, soulfully hypnotic sax and the elegant funk of keyboardist, special guest Rick Habana.” Inspired by secret-sharing conversations he observed by two couples of different generations in beautiful Seattle locales. This is a musical way of saying that it’s love that drives people together, and the connection that keeps them dreaming.

Emerging Maryland based Smooth Jazz saxophonist Eddie K Jr.’s commitment to healing and connection has served him well as a music therapist for students with disabilities, an in-demand regional performer and as a Medal of Valor winning police officer for nearly 20 years. On his explosive, yet heartfelt debut album BACK TO SERENITY (Deluxe), his playing is intensely soulful and emotionally intuitive on tunes ranging from edgy funk to the exotic and symphonic. But what really sets him apart from the pack, whether on ballads or the jams, are his bold and sizzling stacked horn textures and vibrant arrangements and production inspired by co-producer Kyle Carson!

Often compared, and rightly so, to Ella Fitzgerald (for her remarkable vocal jazz chops) and Tina Turner (for her soul aesthetic and sheer emotional intensity), multiple international award- winning Australian-born singer Skii Harvey’s skill with musical heartbreak runs so deep that she recently had a seven-year period she called the “broken” years. Her latest single, the breathtaking, piano-vocal centered ballad “Wanting You More,” taps into similar aching emotions with a unique narrative twist – a story of love and longing between two people kept apart by societal expectations and the oppression of outside forces. Sorrow never sounded so magnificent!

Who doesn’t love the moment someone gives us a triumphant “High Five” for a great achievement or job well done? That’s exactly what fans of James ‘PJ” Spraggins will feel like doing to him when they hear the veteran Smooth Jazz drummer, composer and producer’s latest single. Written by Spraggins, it’s a free-spirited, uplifting jazzy funk celebration of life featuring the always-sparkling piano magic of guest keyboardist/artist Oli Silk, who carries the winsome melody and shares his adventurous improvisational gifts throughout. Lead and rhythm guitarist Eric Essix offers more subtle but still essential support. 

The Kinsman Dazz Band, the original Dazz Band, the 80's R&B hitmakers ("Let It Whip"), has been on a Smooth Jazz roll with four singles in 2024. The iconic band's first album was produced by Phillip Bailey (EWF) and Tommy Vicari (George Duke, Prince). Led by the musical vision of founding member, guitarist, producer and songwriter Michael J. Calhoun, the group's latest track "There" is an easy flowing, dreamily romantic mid-tempo ballad featuring sultry lead vocals by recording artist and award-winning filmmaker Gina Sedman and soaring sax harmonies and solo action by saxophonist Matt Horowich. It's a picture perfect summer playlist tune making us privy to a sensual conversation about planning a much-needed physical and spiritual escape.

Part of a stable of Las Vegas and Santa Fe singers and musicians collectively known as the “Crown Jewel,“ R&B influenced jazz singer Abe LaMarca follows his recent spiritual minded airplay hit “When God's In the Music” with “My Side of the Mountain,” a fun, rambunctious, Steely Dan-esque single spotlighting his powerhouse voice and lush vocal harmonies as they glide over a fast swinging horn section, punctuated by powerhouse sax and flute solos. Continuing his thought provoking themes, LaMarca encourages listeners to experience newfound freedom by overcoming old mindsets and adopting a fresh perspective on life.  

A longtime Boston A-lister, saxophonist Charles Langford became a popular bandleader and touring sensation after years playing with R&B and jazz greats like The Temptations, Mighty Sam McClain, Solomon Burke and Norman Connors. In 2021, 13 years after his debut album, he began conquering Smooth Jazz with his debut album POWERLESS and a flurry of singles that now includes the passionate, smoky, sensual and romantically suggestive ballad “Leave the Light On.” It’s testament to his rich and emotional tenor intensity that he’s attracting top collaborators like keyboardist/producer Greg Manning and several of the genre’s rhythmic giants including Ray Fuller, Mel Brown and Eric Valentine!

With each successive recording full of catchy and uber-melodic, urban-tinged Smooth Jazz delights, the Next Lev’l Band continues living up to its uniquely challenging moniker. Launched by drummer Morris Harris, bassist Ernest Raheem and keyboardist Grant Nicholas, the popular Baltimore based ensemble infuses PURPLE PASSION – their first collection in four years – with a potent mix of lead instrumental voices. They complement the elegant and funky piano of Nicholas with crisp, edgy spotlights for electric guitar, and, most prominently, the soaring sax energy of guest Eddie Baccus, Jr. – all topped at special moments by silky, soulful female backing vocals. 

With the drop of pianist/composer Lori Nicely’s fresh, emotionally raw and sublimely funked out new single “Come on Down” featuring Selina Albright, it’s clear Smooth Jazz has a great instrumental/vocal duo on its hands. Marking the second collab between the two, following Nicely’s passionate 2024 ballad “Reach into My Heart,” the track delights nonstop with a frolicsome fusion of Selina’s gospel/soul lead and textured backing vocals and Nicely’s hypnotic/melodic ivory dazzle and percussive chords. The invitation to “Come on Down” grooves and bounces mightily thanks to the buoyant rhythm section of bassist Vernon Prout and drummer Mike Reid.

Since establishing herself as a Smooth Jazz force on her self-titled 2014 debut album, flute virtuoso Sherry Reeves has performed with everyone from Ben Tankard and Vincent Ingala to Kim Waters and was voted Best Jazz Female Performer by the Alabama Music Awards. The melodic master returns with an impactful, heart-tugging 3-track EP whose title VOYAGE, is no doubt a reference to her exciting musical journey. Featuring the crisp, crackling guitar harmonies and solos of Eric Dubose and Cashmere Williams, Sherry’s fanciful funky vibes sandwich a soothing, breezy ballad, creating a perfect representation of her stylish artistry.  

Currently one of Dallas’ busiest musicians, to the tune of 15-20 shows a month at luxury hotels, wineries, cocktail lounges and private events, guitarist Randy Sloan – a veteran of numerous West coast rock and Top 40 bands – follows his prolific 2024 Smooth Jazz emergence with his latest single “Pop’s Bebop!.” Another grand showcase for his crisp yet fluid melodic style, the track, despite a hipster title referring to a classic style of jazz, is a picture perfect song, fast paced, funky and brass-punched Smooth Jazz through and through. The track is a collaboration with multi-instrumentalist Torrey Brown, whose adventurous trumpet solo is a delightful highlight. 
 

A versatile veteran guitarist in the classic Wes Montgomery/George Benson mold, Ronny Smith laid the groundwork for his prolific 25-year Smooth Jazz career by performing in U.S. Army bands all over the U.S. and Europe during four years of active duty and 31 years of part time service. His perfectly titled 10th album CRUSIN keeps his trademark fusion of killer licks, endless energy, silky melodies and occasional wordless vocals flowing freely. While the focus is always on his shimmering guitar, he adds a few exciting production touches along the way, including sparkling horns, bluesy organ magic and sexy, percussive Latin/tropical atmospheres.
 

From the first notes, you can feel the gentle breeze of a tropical island washing over you. Matt Horwich’s saxophone sets the tone, smooth and soulful, like the the perfect soundtrack to a lazy afternoon by the beach. Guitars by Chris Cuda and Vic Smiley blend seamlessly with Pete Tokar’s lush keyboards, strings, and percussion, creating an atmosphere that feels both relaxed and alive. And let’s not forget the steel drums and marimba playing of Duncan Crooks—these touches add that irresistible island flavor that makes you feel like you’ve just stepped into vacation mode along with the background vocals of Michael J Calhoun, Chris Cuda and Wayne Preston. Heidi, a multi-talented, Phillippines-born singer delivers a silky, intimate voice that soars on the wings of The Kinsman Dazz Band.Turn this one up and you'll feel the sunshine!

Produced and written by Kinsman Dazz Band
Written by Michael J Calhoun
Lead Vocals by Heidi Tann Sax, Matt Horwich Chris Cuda and Vic Smiley
Guitars by Pete Tokar
Keyboards, Strings, Bass and Drums by Duncan Crooks
Keyboards, Marimba, and Steel Drums Produced by Michael Calhoun and Pete Tokar
Music Arrangement by Michael J Calhoun, Pete Tokar, and Duncan Crooks
Vocal Arrangement by Michael J Calhoun, Wayne Preston and Chris Cuda
Background Vocals by Michael J Calhoun, Wayne Preston, and Chris Cuda
Engineering and Mixing by Pete Tokar