Jazz / Contemporary Jazz; Crossover Jazz
Composer, pianist and three-time Grammy nominee David Benoit continues his legendary status as the pioneer of smooth jazz with his latest release, "Right Here, Right Now." Maintaining his signature style of tranquility, Benoit decides to loosen up a bit and add a little funk on this CD. The opening cut, "Watermelon Man" offers Herbie Hancock's classic funk but also embraces a retro-60's sound that Benoit classifies as "funky jazz" or "jazz rock". The title track, "Right Here, Right Now", produced by longtime friend and trumpet player Rick Braun captures the true essence of a David Benoit classic. James Taylor's "Don't Let Me be Lonely Tonight" is cushioned with an intoxicating live jazz treatment accompanied by a 22-piece string section. Benoit's musical selections reflect his attraction for a range of jazz-inflected styles, from contemporary pop to pure bebop, orchestral and hip-hop. On the cadenced "Jellybeans and Chocolate" titled with his daughter June in mind, he introduces up and coming smooth jazz musicians, Brian Culbertson (trombone) and Euge Groove (saxophone). Benoit also features the talents of his live band on the bossa nova inflected ode to Hawaii, "Swingin Waikiki" and "Quiet Room" a touching dedication to his late father. Recently lauded for the third time in a row as "Keyboardist of the Year" in the 4th Annual National Smooth Jazz Awards, it is music like this current selection that makes Benoit's legacy an indelible mark in contemporary jazz music.
David Benoit - Piano
Andy Suzuki - (1-8) Tenor Saxophone
Pat Kelly - (1-8) Guitar
Dean Taba - (1-8) Bass
Rick Braun - (1-2, 8, 10) Trumpet
Peter White - (8) Guitar
Nathan East - (3, 6) Bass |
