Listening Loft Store

Hot off her hit sensual funk rendition of “For What It’s Worth,” the Vietnam era classic she slyly re-appropriated for contemporary times, New York based singer, songwriter and vocal interpreter extraordinaire Rebecca Angel makes her long-awaited full length album debut with the vibrant, multi-faceted LOVE LIFE CHOICES. Vibing with longtime collaborator, veteran keyboardist/producer Jason Miles, and some top-flight session cats, the sultry, easy flowing vocalist makes every track an intimate invitation to join her as she celebrates her recent marriage and artfully chronicles the pandemic and other important societal issues. The set includes dynamic jazz, R&B and/or Brazilian tinged originals, exotic, atmosphere and groove-centered re-imaginings (of gems by Bill Withers, Bob Marley, Antonio Carlos Jobim and Sade) and a few memorable, previously released singles. 

After years of serving as a sideman for the Smooth Jazz elite (Kirk Whalum, Brian Culbertson, Gerald Albright, et al), versatile German bassist and vocalist Gunter Asbeck emerges as a compelling and eclectic singer/songwriter with his debut album EVOLVE. Though he cites his bass heroes as Marcus Miller and Nathan East, Asbeck eschews the concept of a bass heavy collection, choosing to keep his axe as a supporting rhythmic instrument on mostly vocal tunes that run the gamut from smooth romantic pop, and edgy, classic styled rockers to easy flowing urban jazz (on two songs with saxman Will Donato) and even country. One of the standout songs, a stunning inspirational ballad featuring Selina Albright, seems perfectly suited as a beacon of light in these challenging times.  

Years after discovering her, jazz legend Lionel Hampton exclaimed of Sylvia Bennett, “Man, that lady can sing! Her magic gets to the ears and the hearts of the audience.” The extraordinary, multi-talented Grammy nominated vocalist does just that once again on her exceptional new album THIS LOVE IS REAL. To the delight of Smooth Jazz fans, Bennett has been part of the genre for much of the new millennium, recording hits with Paul Brown and Rick Braun. Recent smashes featuring Nathan East and Arturo Sandoval lay the buoyant foundation of the new collection produced by Hal S. Batt, which finds Bennett artfully swinging from playful and whimsical to passionate and sensual as she brings smooth grooves and Latin-tinged twists to her all-time favorite subject… love!

The title of Congolese born, Stockholm, Sweden based singer/songwriter Marius Billgobenson’s album THE SPIRIT LOVE embodies his life’s work and mission as a concerned and compassionate musical citizen of the world with a commitment to bridging cultural divides. Over the course of 11 heartfelt and provocative, urban jazz meets world music tracks, the multi-talented artist – also an award-winning anthropologist with a deep passion for ethnomusicology - creates a deeply visceral and empowering autobiographical fusion of pop, soul, blues and jazz, infused with the spirited rhythms and vocal sounds indigenous to the Congo. Helping him immerse into the Smooth Jazz world are Paul Brown, who wrote and produced two tracks, and Chris “Big Dog” Davis, who helmed six others. 

Closing in on a decade and a half of solo artistry, multi-talented pianist, keyboardist and composer Patrick Bradley gives us all permission to EXHALE after a challenging year, on this infectious, fancifully played and deeply funkified new album. Forging an exciting, spiritually driven musical partnership with saxophonist and producer Darren Rahn, Bradley takes his high energy blend of lively urban jazz, hipster blues, cool and rock influenced jazz fusion to transcendent levels, keeping the positive, hopeful energy flowing with fiery guest performances from Rahn, Jeff Lorber, who produced two tracks, guitarist Allen Hinds and trumpeter Rick Braun. Thematically, Bradley uses these stylistically diverse tracks express everything from gratitude and the blessings of his faith, to affection for family.   

After a year in quarantine, nothing says sunshine like the music of the islands – and no Smooth Jazz artist these days better captures that spirit of a NEW DAY than Brettina. The Nassau, Bahamas born singer releases her new EP and showcases her equal facility for dreamy, sensual romantic soul/jazz along with breezy vocalese and harmonies, danceable grooves and dynamic percussion patterns of her homeland – the latter vibe infused with folk acoustic guitar and vibrant steel pans! Brettina collaborated on this sexy, feel good project with multi-platinum Grammy nominated producer G’harah Degeddingseze. 

Fans digging on Richard Brown’s sweetly whimsical, pop/rock influenced debut Smooth Jazz single “Stars in My Eyes” should count themselves grateful that the multi-talented musician switched early on from violin and guitar to mastering the flute these past 48 years! Inspired by an infatuation with another artist/dancer, it’s his breakout as a solo artist after years of leading Distilled Butter, one of Atlanta’s premier party and event bands specializing in R&B and contemporary jazz. The ultra-melodic song gets its easy flowing pocket groove from veteran Emmy Award winning bassist Tony Saunders, whose atmosphere rich production takes the track to the next level. Just as the song is breezing along, Distilled Butter’s guitarist Tremaine Young bursts in and rocks it with a sizzling solo leaving listeners with stars in their ears as well!

Though Vann Burchfield will forever be known as the ambitious saxophonist who broke Kenny G’s record for circular breathing (over 47 minutes!), that shouldn’t overshadow the amazing reality that, he’s closing in on 15 years as a renowned Smooth Jazz artist. The title of his latest album KEEP PRESSING ON – which is thematically consistent with the names of most of the tracks - says it all about his intention to offer us sparkling and soulful, rhythmically eclectic musical encouragement and optimism as we press forward through this difficult, anxious time. His blend of sultry and lyrical ballads, tight mid-tempo groovers and supercharged jamming funk takes us on a whirlwind journey that inspires reflection on where we’ve been and reminds us to keep the faith. 

Still blazing trails, grooving hard and firing up their trademark sizzling horns more than 15 years after their launch by trombonist and JPL Spacecraft engineer Jim Lewis, the San Gabriel Seven’s latest album TIME TO STAY offers a prime showcase for the brilliant singing and songwriting of Andrea Miller – one of SoCal’s busiest and well-traveled vocalists and a Top 5 finalist in the International Sarah Vaughan Jazz Competition. The ten romantic minded songs she brings to the collection come to alternately silky/sensual and punchy/explosive life via the six-piece rhythm section and four-piece horn section’s vibrant rendering of Dave Cushman’s bright, emotionally impactful arrangements. Miller and her versatile cohorts infuse the genre-hopping journey with adventurous funk, dance, strutting R&B, sensual soul-pop, tender balladry and gritty soul/rock. Produced by Chris Gordon.

In an inspirational video clip Gil Johnson (known professionally as Gil) posted while he was making his down deep soulful, heartfelt and uber-romantic debut album SOMETIMES A MAN, the Detroit based vocalist - reflecting on his recent retirement from the car business after 30 years to pursue his musical dreams – offered a sage piece of advice: “Don’t let age be the reason you didn’t give that one thing you’re passionate about at least an effort.” Gil blazes these personal trails with a set of sweet soaring ballads and easy grooving mid-tempo gems – plus a super funky piano driven, guitar soaring instrumental – produced by David Lee Spradley, renowned for his work with everyone from George Clinton and Stevie Wonder to Roy Ayers and Earl Klugh.    

On his first album in five years, “The Funky Sax Man” Charles “Chazzy” Green reconnects with his longtime pal and collaborator Ray Parker Jr., among other top line urban jazz sidemen, to create the richly emotional, alternately punchy/funky and blissfully sensual collection LET’S GO HOME – whose title is a wink towards the reality of remote recording this past year while in lockdown. While renowned for wide-ranging skills on alto and tenor, the Detroit bred, Howard University educated musician – who has played and toured throughout his career with the likes of Howard Hewett, Montell Jordan, Macy Gray and Bobby Womack - showcases on a few infectious tracks his equally sparkling flute skills – a callback to Green’s early classical training which also included clarinet. 

Still producing their 3rd full length album WATCH YOUR STEP for a 2021 drop, the dynamic Bay Area jazz ensemble GTF release “Prayer For Linda,” their 3rd single from the highly anticipated recording. Delivered in a dream, composer John Cain crafted a musical message just as he heard it for his friend and concert producer Linda, the jazzy Samba soundscape features John Rekevics’ sax playing along with the signature GTF, stress-free vibe that includes vocalese and the compelling guitar work of Richard Livoni, along with a feel-good low end powered by drummer Ron Otis, percussionist Juan Escovedo and band co-founder/bassist George Franklin.  “Prayer For Linda” unfolds like a beautiful, musical poem delivering another radio ready, Smooth Jazz smash for George & Tracy Franklin (GTF).

Saxophonist Wayne Gutshall’s perfectly titled debut album SPICY! is a joyous reflection of the many years he’s spent immersed in Miami’s Latin pop and jazz scenes – which includes work with greats like Nestor Torres, Dave Valentin, Arturo Sandoval and an appearance on Ed Calle’s Latin Grammy winning album MAMBLUE. While he showcases these influences via an artful balance of high energy exotica and balmy sensuality, the Latin vibe is simply the launching point for a stylistically eclectic collection that includes jazz fusion, gritty blues, stylish tributes to Gato Barbieri and Miles Davis and engaging twists on pop classics by Mariah Carey and Lionel Richie. Playfully jumping genres from track to track, Wayne Gutshall delivers a fashionable collection with a lot of Miami spice!

Returning to the scene of the rhyme, Swedish born, NYC based singer/songwriter Anders Holst pulls out a showstopper from his latest release ENDLESSLY, with his stirring cover of “All I Do.” This supremely soulful tribute to Stevie Wonder accentuates the album’s bold and artistic approach, elegantly produced by Grammy Award winner Gordon Chambers, with beguiling string arrangements and soaring backing vocals. The pop/soul/jazz collection is grounded by a live ensemble featuring keyboardist Shedrick Mitchell, guitarist Sherrod Barnes, vocalist Sy Smith and saxophonists Peck Almond and Andreas “Pastorn” Andersson. Holst muses on various aspects of love on ENDLESSLY, with inviting originals and spirited re-imaginings of unforgettable tunes. 

A socially conscious force in global jazz fusion for over 10 years, Bangladesh born, NYC based composer/guitarist Reza Khan taps into the exotic-meet-melodic aesthetic of one of his major influences, Pat Metheny in his adventurous approach to blending pop, jazz, soul and world music influences. On his multi-faceted and wildly groove intensive album IMAGINARY ROAD, Khan uses a wide array of musical textures to express his emotions about the pandemic and our political culture. Vibing with top genre musicians like Philippe Saisse and Miles Gilderdale (Acoustic Alchemy) as well as fusion great Mark Egan (bass) and trad jazz pianist Matt King, he leads us along an ultimately hopeful path filled with sunshine, sizzling soul, seductive light funk and exquisite free flowing balladry.  

Since the 2010 resurrection of the wildly funky, freewheeling and frequently improvisational ensemble concept of the Jeff Lorber Fusion, the keyboardist and crew – anchored by bassist Jimmy Haslip and drummer Gary Novak – have been on a roll that includes seven Billboard Top 5 Contemporary Jazz Albums and their first Grammy win in 2018 (PROTOTYPE). The title of Lorber’s latest melodic, Rhodes and piano driven blast and vibrant groove explosion SPACE-TIME harkens back to albums from both eras of the Fusion (GALAXIAN and GALAXY) - and all starry eyed , otherworldly adventure metaphors apply. Along for the mostly rollicking, yet at times odd metered or sensually tinged journey are all-stars from the expansive Lorberverse – including Hubert Laws, Paul Jackson, Jr., Michael Landau, Robben Ford, Bob Mintzer, Dave Mann, Gary Meek and Gerald Albright.  

For jazz, soul, and pop influenced, sensual yet intensely emotional vocal powerhouse M’lynn, her 2019 single “T.F.I.L” is the gift that keeps on giving! Named both Best Pop Song and Best Singer-Songwriter Song by the Dallas Songwriter’s Association’s International Songwriting Contest, both its original version and the Nate Harisim vibey chill remix hit the SmoothJazz.com chart, the latter for more than half a year in 2020-21. On her latest release, the hypnotic, intimate and deeply heartfelt post breakup plea “You Should Know,” M’Lynn bares her soul ever-so-gently. The graduate of Bruce Hornsby’s Creative American Music program at the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, soars passionately on this hypnotic track, mixed by Peet Project’s Peter Ferencz, the chill sonic atmospheres serve as a healing caress.

It may sound funny for a guy nicknamed “Motown Moe” to work out of a studio in Chicago, but the keyboardist/composer and Air Force veteran is a Detroit cat through and through - a former member of United Steel Workers and United Auto Workers Unions who grew up on classic R&B and funky jazz fusion and cut his musical teeth in the Motor City. His prolific nearly 15-year career soars to new heights with his vibey new album LIVING MY BEST LIFE, which showcases his mastery of blending sensual moods with lively deep pocket and sometimes unconventional and exotic rhythm patterns, along with his bandleading prowess leading vibrant ensembles featuring the likes of Nils, Rick Stone, Tony Craddock Jr, Tony Guerrero, Ryan Svendson, Chris Campbell and Darron Cookie Moore.  

With one listen, you’ll step deeply into the alluring saxophone world of Shawn Raiford… he is the MAN WITH A HORN, playing it smoothly, brightly and with great conviction! This slickly produced and intensely melodic debut album fires up rich bass lines and hip-hop grooves, creating a proprietary blend of Smooth Jazz, pop, funk, soul and gospel for the Sacramento alto saxman. Raiford’s roots took form in a house of worship, where he played sax for the first time at his late grandmother’s 75-year church anniversary. While showcasing his highly spirited style and emotional range, this collection reflects many styles of musical inspirations, from the exhilarating Raiford-penned originals that the world will surely take notice of, to a select and fun handful of covers from Bruno Mars, DeBarge and Rihanna. MAN WITH A HORN from a man who has arrived. 

A bright and hopeful dual burst of fluid, free-spirited piano and muscular sax energy that speaks to and captures the vibrancy of better days ahead, the single “In These Times” marks the dynamic first time pairing of veteran artists Michael Silverman (the most streamed pianist in the world) and stylistically diverse jazz great Eric Marienthal. Featuring James Lloyd (Pieces Of A Dream), Jimmy Haslip (Yellowjackets) and Michael’s brother, acclaimed drummer Rob Silverman, it’s the first single for the duo from their upcoming album of the same name. While Marienthal has thrived for decades in deep funk and explosive improvisation, Silverman gets into the urban groove after years of playing everything from new age/chill, solo piano and classical music to traditional jazz. He’s a master of them all!  

Being apart from loved ones and the things we love this past year has given many of us time to reflect on what’s most important to us. In that spirit, keyboardist/composer extraordinaire and consistent Smooth Jazz hitmaker Brian Simpson’s 10th album ALL THAT MATTERS, launches his second quarter century as a recording artist with a spirited, soulfully exuberant, and stylistically celebratory bang. Collaborating with genre greats like Nicholas Cole, Najee and Steve Oliver – with whom he scored a Billboard Top 5 hit with the title track from their 2020 dual album Unified – Simpson stirs up an infectious mix of danceable funk, sensual grooves, glorious tropicality and mystical romance. To quote the late great George Duke, “My hat’s off to you, B!”

A Minister of Music for over 25 years, versatile composer/keyboardist (and preacher’s son) Solomon Edmond (aka Solex) has also channeled all of his great gospel and funk spirit into a nearly 15-year career as a Smooth Jazz recording artist that includes two #1 UK hits! On his easy-flowing 8th album FULL MOON, Solex showcases his range of jazz skills as an artist and producer, offering an artful blend of gentle acoustic piano melodies with classic keyboards and fashionable production textures. While his infectious melodic and harmonic elements are front and center, he equally shines as a collaborator, featuring special guests on the project, including his cousin, gospel guitarist Jonathan Dubose, Jr., saxophonist Jason Gay and soul singer Tony (T-Mac) McLendon. We find it very easy to bask in this FULL MOON!

From COAST DRIVE to ENDLESS SUMNER and RIDE THE WAVE, the titles and coastal vibes of Will Sumner’s decade-plus string of albums make the versatile composer and electric guitarist the Smooth Jazz equivalent of the Beach Boys. The name of his latest collection OCEAN STREET – also the moniker of his indie label – has a more personal meaning: it’s the locale of his longtime family home near the Ocean in Carlsbad, where his mother lived until she passed away at 96. You can feel Sumner’s heartfelt sentimental passion amidst the lively blasts of sandy musical sunshine and chillaxed grooves. As we party at this inviting destination, Sumner treats us to a flow that’s alternately laid back, playful, tropical and driving.    

Martin Trotman has wowed ‘em at top venues in his native UK, worked with legendary Elton John guitarist Caleb Quaye and opened for Snarky Puppy and Nile Rodgers. Yet the multi-faceted composer, keyboardist and producer was so determined to become a solo artist on his own terms that he began playing in restaurants and hotels to fund the sessions that result now in LET’S BEGIN, his dazzling and adventurous, perfectly in the pocket debut. While drawing on the stirring energy of his gospel roots, Trotman stirs in vibrant, tightly grooving splashes of funk and jazz, dreamy atmospheric soul, sweet piano elegance and a lush showcase for his inviting lead vocals. Fans of Brian Culbertson and Oli Silk will find Trotman’s eclectic vibes and keyboard sparkle right up their alley.

Originally formed in San Diego by keyboardist Jayson Tipp in the early 90s, versatile contemporary jazz fusion vets Under the Lake continue their extraordinary Renaissance of the past few years with the ensemble’s aptly titled OLD FRIENDS, NEW GROOVES. The wildly adventurous, perfect for a high-spirited road trip collection’s rapidly shifting vibes – from R&B to funk to blues to rock to Smooth Jazz – and colorful song titles combine to tell the group’s fascinating experience of living through and making a socially and geographically distanced recording during the pandemic. The old pals – including bassist Nathan Brown, drummer Richard Sellers, guitarist Patrick Yandall and saxophonist/flutist Quintin Gerard W – infuse the set with high octane solo action throughout. This one celebrates three decades of contemporary jazz at its finest!

Closing in on a decade of recording music that, in his words, are designed to help set the “chill factor,” versatile saxophonist/composer R.L. Walker keeps the blessed, inspired and genuine vibes of his 2020 collection COMING B.I.G. flowing on his latest single, the reflective and heartfelt ballad “Memories Kept.” Composed and arranged by producer Lew Laing Jr., the dreamy, soulfully hypnotic and richly emotional track is a wistful dedication to the memory of Walker’s parents. The saxman, a U.S. Air Force veteran who developed his self-taught talent in South Korean clubs and talent shows, captures the spirit of the song best when he says, “Sometimes you will never know the true value of a moment until it becomes a memory.”