Smooth Jazz Grooves Piano

Bob James is a prolific, best-selling, Grammy-winning composer, arranger, producer, and pianist. Along with Grover Washington, Jr., he is known as one of the fathers of smooth and contemporary jazz. His music seamlessly melds genres from bop to pop, from classical to R&B via relatively simple, accessible, and elegant melodies with rich harmonies and multiple sonic textures, often anchored by lithe, funky grooves. In addition to gold- and platinum-selling albums on his own and in various collaborations, he issued four numerically titled albums for CTI in the mid-'70s that successfully melded jazz, pop, and classical styles with sharp arrangements, accessible melodies, and funky grooves. Those four albums are all considered shining examples of early jazz-funk and have been abundantly sampled by hip-hop DJs and producers…

Terri Lyne Carrington's dual identity as an extraordinary progressive jazz drummer and powerful in-the-pocket groove driver has been presented on her previous recordings. While straddling those lines appeals to different audiences, this CD reverts back to her more commercial roots from 20 years ago, centering on the contemporary, rhythm & blues oriented side of music from an instrumental standpoint.

Collection includes 3 solo albums by Munich-born and Los Angeles-based jazz composer/guitarist Nils and also includes collaboration album with Gravity 180.

The music of Blue Knights thrives on rhytmus and a very jazz influenced groove-piano. Amazing production, rich sounds and some very tight arranging and playing will capture all fun loving music gourmets. Music to dance to, songs to relax with, melodies like a sunset and rhytms that are perfect for lovers and dancers. Afun combination of colour and sensual music. Sexy jazz, light house grooves, some fine piano playing and high class audiophile production turn this music into a first rate music. Curtis McLaw who reached with his band Dancing Fantasy the Billboard Top 20 in USA, shines here as a producer on another project…

Recorded in 1971, shortly after he departed Cadet where he served as a house sideman-playing on dozens of records and a prefferred guitarist for Curtis Mayfield and Jerry Butler, Phil Upchurch headed for the West Coast and Blue Thumb Records. Produced by Tommy LiPuma, Upchurch's Darkness, Darkness is his quintessential (double) album, full of laid-back funky grooves, elegant, mind-blowing guitar work, elegant string and horn arrangements, and fine Fender Rhodes work from Donny Hathaway with legendary session bassist Chuck Rainey and smooth jazz piano great Joe Sample in the house. Upchurch effortlessly walks the line where jazz, blues, rock, soul, and funk fold into one another, yet he never gives quarter in the process.

Dave Sereny's new album Take This Ride is a gem for all smooth jazz lovers.