Koz

There is a strange but beautiful irony that occurs when an artist writes a great song upon the death of a loved one. Doubtful that Brian Culbertson was aiming for one of Somethin' Bout Love's (Atlantic) most emotionally rich tunes when he wrote the powerful gospel of "I'm Gonna Miss You" for his late manager Howard Lowe II, but he and co-writer/vocalist Lori Perry achieve just that. Unlike similar tunes in American culture that come across as generic, the poignant lyrics are specific to the artist-manager relationship, adding to the tune's uniqueness.

David Benoit And Friends' features special guests Dave Koz, Marc Antoine, Rick Braun, Vincent Ingala, Lindsey Webster and others. All are Smooth Jazz stars in their own right, highlights include the gorgeous Dave Koz feature "Vernaaza","Make It Real" a sensuous ballad featuring Lindsey Webster, "Moon and Sand" featuring Marc Antoine, David's interpretation of the Portugal hit "Feel It Still" and much more.

Because this second album by the former New York Yankee outfielder was released a month before the passing of NBA Star-turned-popular jazz bassist Wayman Tisdale, there are bound to be some comparisons made. It's a logical starting point, because both were shining lights in two very different fields.

A new CD from Brian Simpson is a highlight of any contemporary jazz year and this is certainly the case with ‘Just What You Need’ that was released April 23 on the Shanachie label. It is the fifth solo project from this composer, producer, keyboard player and prolific studio musician who for almost two decades has not only enjoyed the distinction of being the musical director for Dave Koz but also contributed richly to the music of George Duke, Teena Marie and Janet Jackson.

After a seven year layoff, feisty veteran funkmaster Lorber steps out from the producer's chair with a fun filled all star project. The keyboardist, best known for his fusion years, has been far from idle during that time, producing for pop jazz sax gods Kenny G and Eric Marienthal, and mixing for U2 and Paula Abdul. His latest lives up to its title…though not resoundingly so. As he did with Marienthal's brilliant Oasis, Lorber divides his keyboard time between punchy, soulful rhythms and mellifluous textures that pour on the romance. Easygoing exercises like "Yellowstone" and the Latin tinged "Punta Del Soul" inspire a cool charm, but it's danceable cookers like "High Wire" and "Jazzery" that keep the disc spiraling

A collection of Christmas classics performed by Jonathan Butler and his friends. Christmas Together includes performances from smooth jazz legends Dave Koz, Gerald Albright, Keiko Matsui, Kirk Whalum and Rick Braun. This new take on holiday favorites is a must have for your collection! Jonathan also celebrates his new partnership with the Lalela Foundation in South Africa which provides children from 6 to 18 with an education in the arts, allowing them to express themselves creatively—including painting. Artwork from the students is featured in the packaging, most prominently by Amos Kabulo Maboneng, whose painting won the competition to be used as the cover art for this release.