YELLOWJACKETS — Yellowjackets (1981) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

The Yellowjackets made a splash with their first record, an accessible mixture of jazz, rock, and funk bearing the unmistakable mark of the L.A. session scene that spawned them. In fact, the Yellowjackets had their roots in the sessions for Robben Ford's 1979 album The Inside Story. Russell Ferrante, Jimmy Haslip, and Ricky Lawson all appeared on that album and reenlisted Ford's help for their own debut, with the guitarist's fluid soloing often taking the lead role. As fun an album as it is -- and there are times when the melodies rise to a joyful exuberance that recalls Weather Report's "Birdland" -- Yellowjackets isn't a true fusion record. Ricky Lawson provides rock beats to the material, Haslip's bass work is as funky as it is jazzy, and the arrangements tend to stick with the same groove (as ingratiating as they may be) rather than explore the musical themes like an esoteric jazz band might. The opening "Matinee Idol" is as much the Jackson 5 (one of Lawson's previous gigs) as fusion, "Rush Hour" is jazzy in a Steely Dan sense, while "Sittin' in It" actually borrows from the old funk classic "For the Love of Money." There are some nice, chunky grooves that give the album a sense of substance ("The Hornet," "Imperial Strut"), a wistful track in "It's Almost Gone," and a neat melody tucked into "Priscilla," all of which contribute to the album's charm. But compared to their GRP recordings, the Yellowjackets' debut does seem a little one-dimensional. If you enjoy the smooth, guitar-led jazz from this period (e.g., Earl Klugh, Lee Ritenour), Yellowjackets is worth checking out, both for the upbeat melodies and Ford's seemingly effortless solos. Dave Connolly  
Tracklist :
1.     Matinee Idol 5:08
Russell Ferrante
Saxophone [Tenor] – Ernie Watts    
2.     Imperial Strut 5:25
Russell Ferrante
3.     Sittin' in It 5:06
Ricky Lawson / Bobby Lyle
4.     Rush Hour 5:13
Russell Ferrante / Robben Ford
5.     The Hornet 5:29
Russell Ferrante / Jimmy Haslip
6.     Priscilla 5:11
Robben Ford / Jimmy Haslip / Chris Palmaro
7.     It's Almost Gone 6:00
Russell Ferrante
Credits :
Arranged By [Horns] – Bill Reichenbach, Larry Williams
Bass – Jimmy Haslip
Drums – Ricky Lawson
Guitar – Robben Ford
Keyboards – Russell Ferrante
Percussion – Lenny Castro, Paulinho Da Costa
Saxophone [Tenor], Flute – Gary Herbig, Larry Williams
Saxophone [Tenor], Saxophone [Baritone] – Kim Hutchcroft
Trombone – Bill Reichenbach
Trumpet, Flugelhorn – Jerry Hey

YELLOWJACKETS — Mirage a Trois (1983) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Tracklist :
1.    Claire's Song 5:07
Composed By – Russell Ferrante
2.    Top Secret 6:00
Composed By – Jimmy Haslip, Russell Ferrante
3.    I Got Rhythm 4:32
Composed By – George Gerschwin, Ira Gerschwin
4.    Pass It On 6:10
Composed By – Russell Ferrante
5    Goin' Home 5:36
Composed By – Russell Ferrante
6.    Man In The Moon 4:35
Composed By – Jimmy Haslip, Russell Ferrante
7.    Elamar 4:08
Composed By – Mike Miller
8.    Nimbus 4:44
Composed By – Russell Ferrante
Credits :
Bass – Jimmy Haslip
Drums – Ricky Lawson
Guitar – Mike Miller (pistas: 3, 6 to 8), Robben Ford (pistas: 2, 4 to 6)
Keyboards, Piano – Russell Ferrante
Lyricon, Saxophone – Richard Elliot (pistas: 2)
Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa
Synthesizer, Programmed By – James Newton Howard (pistas: 7, 8)
Vocals – Bill Labounty (pistas: 3), Brenda Russell (pistas: 3), Bruce Hornsby (pistas: 3), Marilyn Scott (pistas: 3), Max Gronenthal (pistas: 3), Pauline Wilson (pistas: 3), Randy Crawford (pistas: 3), Yolan Fischer (pistas: 3)

YELLOWJACKETS — Shades (1986) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

The Yellowjackets are a jazz band for the Windham Hill set: i.e., smooth and relaxing rather than edgy and stimulating. If Shades goes down like straight sugar (and not the lumpy kind), it's supposed to. Since some folks are naturally drawn to this type of music and others are not, an appreciation for jazz is not enough -- you'll need an appreciation for crossover jazz (aka "smooth jazz") to enjoy this album. If you do like your jazz on the lyrical side, and don't mind the late-night talk show arrangements, chances are you'll think Shades is pretty cool. Led by alto sax player Marc Russo, these eight songs glide along with nary a care in the world, promising to burst into song at any moment (which in fact happens on the gospel-inspired "Revelations"). Thanks in part to the electronic instruments and immaculate studio sound, Shades retains an uplifting and bouncy feel throughout. "New Shoes," "One Family," and "Regular Folks" are songs that listeners can warm up to in a hurry. Despite Russo's gratuitous solos, the Yellowjackets are not a flashy band -- Jimmy Haslip's agile bass is too low in the mix to be accused of showboating, and drummer Ricky Lawson and keyboardist Russell Ferrante don't seem interested in the spotlight. Without those individual excursions, the Yellowjackets sacrifice some identity, but generally the compositions stand up on the merits of their melodies. Because the melodies are so accessible, Shades occasionally sounds more like the work of contemporary pop artists with jazz aspirations (Donald Fagen, Bruce Hornsby) than contemporary jazz artists. That this music would sound at home in a supermarket should scare off jazz purists, but even they might find themselves humming along to it somewhere in a secluded aisle. Dave Connolly  
Tracklist :
1.    And You Know That 5:35
Written-By – Ricky Lawson, Russell Ferrante
2.    New Shoes 5:17
Written-By – Marc Russo, Russell Ferrante
3.    One Family 5:37
Written-By – Russell Ferrante
4.    Revelation 5:10
Written-By – Lorraine Perry, Russell Ferrante
5.    Oasis 5:29
Written-By – Russell Ferrante
6.    Regular Folks 5:01
Written-By – Russell Ferrante
7.    Black Tie 5:42
Written-By – Russell Ferrante
8.    Sonja's Sanfona 6:27
Written-By – Bill Gable, Jimmy Haslip
9.    Shades 5:14
Written-By – Donald Fagen
10.    Wildcats & Cougars 5:30
Written-By – Jimmy Haslip, Robben Ford, Russell Ferrante
Credits :
Accordion, Guest – Bruce Hornsby (pistas: 8)
Alto Saxophone – Marc Russo
Bass [Five String, Piccolo] – Jimmy Haslip
Drums [Remo], Percussion, Drums [Simmons] – Ricky Lawson
Keyboards – Russell Ferrante
Percussion, Guest – Paulinho Da Costa
Producer – Yellowjackets
Vocals, Guest – Perri (pistas: 4)

YELLOWJACKETS — Live Wires (1994) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

This live set by the Yellowjackets (taped at the Roxy in Hollywood) has plenty of solo space for Bob Mintzer (on tenor, soprano, bass clarinet and EWI) and keyboardist Russell Ferrante (who takes a particularly colorful spot on "Homecoming") along with fine backup work by bassist Jimmy Haslip, drummer William Kennedy and percussionist Paulinho Da Costa. Although the back cover of the CD says "Featuring: Michael Franks, Take 6, Brenda Russell & Marilyn Scott," fortunately Franks, Russell and Scott are only heard on one harmless selection ("The Dream" ) while Take 6 just pops by for the closer "The Revelation." The strength of the improvisations and of Ferrante's Joe Zawinul-like originals make this one of the Yellowjackets' stronger efforts. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1.    Homecoming 5:35
Written-By – Russell Ferrante
2.    Bright Lights 6:53
Written-By – Bob Mintzer
3.    The Dream 5:08
Lyrics By – Michael Franks
Music By – Jimmy Haslip, Marc Russo, Russell Ferrante
4.    Freedomland 6:26
Written-By – Russell Ferrante
5.    Downtown 4:51
Written-By – Russell Ferrante
6.    Claire's Song 7:41
Written-By – Russell Ferrante
7.    Geraldine 7:21
Written-By – Russell Ferrante
8.    The Spin 9:47
Written-By – Jimmy Haslip, Marc Russo, Russell Ferrante, William Kennedy
9.    Wildlife 9:26
Written-By – Alex Acuna, Jimmy Haslip, Russell Ferrante
10.    Revelation 6:24
Lyrics By – Lorraine Perry
Music By – Russell Ferrante
Credits :
Arranged By [Strings] – Vince Mendoza (pistas: 7)
Backing Vocals – Brenda Russell, Marilyn Scott
Bass – Jimmy Haslip
Drums – William Kennedy
Keyboards [Synclavier] – Steve Croes
Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa
Producer – Yellowjackets
Saxophone, Saxophone [Ewi], Bass Clarinet – Bob Mintzer
Vocals – Michael Franks (pistas: 3), Take 6 (pistas: 10) 

LEE RITENOUR — A Twist Of Rit (2015) SHM-CD | Two Version | FLAC (image+.tracks+.cue), lossless

Released in conjunction with a five-LP vinyl box set of some of his classic albums, guitarist Lee Ritenour's 2015 studio effort, A Twist of Rit, finds him looking back over his career, revisiting and reworking songs from some of his earliest albums. In fact, many of the songs here were culled off his debut record, 1975's First Course. Joining Ritenour on A Twist of Rit are such longtime collaborators as pianist Dave Grusin, drummer Dave Weckl, saxophonist Ernie Watts, and Fender Rhodes keyboardist John Beasley. Also featured is classical guitarist Tony Pusztai, who took home the grand prize in Ritenour's 2014 Six String Theory competition. Musically, this is soulful, groove-oriented jazz that will be familiar to most of Ritenour's longtime fans. And while many of the cuts on A Twist of Rit are reworked versions of older songs like "Wild Rice," "Fatback," and "Sweet Syncopation," they've been given new arrangements (hence, the "twist") and sound as contemporary as anything off Ritenour's previous Concord album, 2012's Rhythm Sessions. The transformation works especially well on the melody for "Soaring," off 1986's Earth Run. Originally played on the MIDI-controlled SynthAxe, here Ritenour sticks to a rounded, more natural guitar tone for a nuanced, modern fusion sound. Nonetheless, cuts like the sultry "Ooh Yeah" and the organic "A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That," replete with a hard-hitting R&B horn section, retain much of the breezy '70s soul style that made them sound so fresh to begin with. Similarly, "Countdown" from 1985's Rit, Vol. 1 and "Bullet Train" from 1979's Friendship 2 have the loose, congenial vibe of old friends reuniting. Ultimately, A Twist of Rit works to remind listeners of Ritenour's legacy as one of the driving innovators of instrumental smooth jazz. Matt Collar
Tracklist :
1.    Wild Rice  5:32
Lee Ritenour
Baritone Saxophone – Adam Schroeder
Clavinet, Synthesizer – John Beasley
Drums – Ron Bruner Jr.
Electric Bass – Melvin Lee Davis
Electric Piano [Fender Rhodes] – Patrice Rushen 

Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa
Rhythm Guitar – Michael Thompson
Tenor Saxophone – Tom Luer
Tenor Saxophone, Soloist – Ernie Watts
Trombone – Wendell Kelly
Trumpet – Rashawn Ross
2.    Fatback  5:51
Lee Ritenour
Baritone Saxophone – Bob Sheppard
Drums – Chris Coleman (9)
Electric Bass – Melvin Lee Davis*
Electric Piano [Wurlitzer] – John Beasley
Organ [Hammond B3], Soloist – Dave Grusin
Rhythm Guitar, Soloist – Michael Thompson
Tenor Saxophone – Ernie Watts
Trombone – Wendell Kelly
Trumpet – Rashawn Ross
3.    Ooh Yeah  5:01
Lee Ritenour
Drums – Ron Bruner Jr.
Electric Bass – Melvin Lee Davis
Electric Piano [Fender Rhodes] – John Beasley
Flugelhorn – Rashawn Ross
Flute – Bob Sheppard
Rhythm Guitar – Michael Thompson
Synth [Minimoog] – Dave Grusin
4.    W.O.R.K.N' IT (Weckl, Ozone, Ritenour, Kennedy)  7:51
Lee Ritenour
Acoustic Bass – Tom Kennedy 
Drums – Dave Weckl
Organ [Hammond B3] – Makoto Ozone
5.    Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That  5:36
Lee Ritenour
Arranged By [Original Horn] – Michael Omartian
Baritone Saxophone – Adam Schroeder
Drums – Ron Bruner Jr.*
Electric Bass – Melvin Lee Davis*
Electric Piano [Fender Rhodes] – John Beasley
Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa
Piano [Acoustic] – Dave Grusin
Rhythm Guitar – Michael Thompson
Tenor Saxophone – Ernie Watts
Trombone – Wendell Kelly
Trumpet – Rashawn Ross
6.    Pearl  4:50
Lee Ritenour
Acoustic Bass – Tom Kennedy 
Drums, Drums [Hand] – Dave Weckl
Piano [Acoustic] – Makoto Ozone
7.    Twist of Rit  5:38
Lee Ritenour
Drums – Chris Coleman 
Electric Bass – Melvin Lee Davis
Flugelhorn – Rashawn Ross
Flute – Bob Sheppard
Guitar – David T. Walker, Wah Wah Watson
Piano [Acoustic] – Dave Grusin
Programmed By – Lee Ritenour
Synthesizer, Arranged By [Horns] – John Beasley
Tenor Saxophone – Ernie Watts
Trombone – Wendell Kelly
8.    Countdown  4:51
Lee Ritenour
Clavinet, Electric Piano [Fender Rhodes] – Dave Grusin
Drums – Chris Coleman 
Electric Bass – Melvin Lee Davis
Electric Piano [Fender Rhodes], Synthesizer – John Beasley
Rhythm Guitar – Michael Thompson
9.    Soaring  8:10
Lee Ritenour
Acoustic Guitar – Michael Thompson
Drums – Ron Bruner Jr.
Electric Bass – Melvin Lee Davis
Electric Piano [Fender Rhodes] – John Beasley
Synth [Vibes] – Dave Grusin
Tenor Saxophone – Ernie Watts
10.    Sweet Syncopation  5:28
Lee Ritenour
Baritone Saxophone – Adam Schroeder
Clavinet – John Beasley
Drums – Ron Bruner Jr.
Electric Bass – Melvin Lee Davis
Electric Piano [Fender Rhodes] – Patrice Rushen
Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa
Rhythm Guitar – Michael Thompson
Tenor Saxophone – Ernie Watts
Trombone – Wendell Kelly
Trumpet – Rashawn Ross
11.    Bullet Train  6:36
Lee Ritenour / Ernie Watts
Drums – Ron Bruner Jr.*
Electric Bass – Melvin Lee Davis*
Electric Piano [Fender Rhodes] – John Beasley
Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa
Piano [Acoustic], Synthesizer – Dave Grusin
Saxophone – Ernie Watts
12.    Waltz For Carmen  4:58
Mitch Holder / Lee Ritenour
Classical Guitar – Tony Pusztair 

PATTI AUSTIN — Every Home Should Have One (1981-1991) Two Version | FLAC (image+.tracks+.cue), lossless

The talented Patti Austin launched a successful jazz album career on CTI by the mid-'70s. Working with Quincy Jones since 1976, Every Home Should Have One was her long-awaited solo album with Jones as a producer. The hit singles "Do You Love Me" and "Every Home Should Have One" are polished -- pleasing but derivative. Rod Temperton -- who did four songs here, including the smooth "The Genie" -- comes up with a true gem, the classic Austin and James Ingram duet "Baby Come to Me." The most telling aspect of Every Home Should Have One isn't the L.A. pop/R&B Austin could do standing on her head, it's the most meditative offerings. A cover of Thom Bell and Linda Creed's "Stop, Look and Listen" gets an effortless treatment. The album-closing "The Island," with music from Ivan Lins and Vitor Martins and lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman, seems best suited for Austin as she gives a sensual and flawless reading. Every Home Should Have One doesn't possess Quincy Jones' all-encompassing production style of albums like The Dude and George Benson's Give Me the Night. While this seems like a debut album, it's far from it, but it's a perfect introduction to Austin and her more pop-orientated work. Jason Elias
Tracklist :
1.    Do You Love Me?  3:23
Backing Vocals [Male Background Vocals] – James Ingram
Bass – Louis Johnson
Lead Vocals, Backing Vocals [Female Background Vocals] – Patti Austin
Written-By – Rod Temperton
2.    Love Me To Death  4:08
Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar – Steve Lukather
Soloist, Synthesizer [Synthesizer Solo] – Greg Phillinganes
Written-By – Rod Temperton
3.    The Way I Feel  4:20
Arranged By [Synthesizer Arrangement] – Jerry Hey, Quincy Jones
Piano [Acoustic] – Richard Tee
Written-By – Eric Kaz, Wendy Waldman
4.    Every Home Should Have One 3:27
Keyboards – Richard Tee
Soloist, Tenor Saxophone [Tenor Sax Solo] – Ernie Watts
Written-By – Dominic Bugatti And Frank Musker
5.    Baby, Come To Me  3:37
Backing Vocals [Vocal Backgrounds] – James Ingram, Patti Austin
Lead Vocals [Lead Female Vocal] – Patti Austin
Vocals [Duet, Lead Male Vocal] – James Ingram
Written-By – Rod Temperton
6.    The Genie  3:59
Bass – Louis Johnson
Soloist, Synthesizer [Synthesizer Solo] – Greg Phillinganes
Written-By – Rod Temperton
7.    Stop, Look, Listen  3:09
Arranged By [Rhythm Arrangement] – Rod Temperton
Arranged By [Synthesizer Arrangement] – Jerry Hey, Quincy Jones
Written-By – Linda Creed, Thom Bell
8.    Symphony Of Love  3:41
Arranged By [Percussion Arrangement] – Ralph MacDonald
Written-By – Rod Bowkett
9.    Oh No, Margarita 3:54
Arranged By [Rhythm And Synthesizer Arrangements] – Michael Boddicker
Soloist, Tenor Saxophone [Tenor Sax Solo] – Ernie Watts
Written-By – Michael Boddicker, Patti Austin
10.    The Island 3:47
Lyrics By – Alan And Marilyn Bergman
Music By – Ivan Lins, Vitor Martins
Piano [Acoustic] – Bob James
Credits :
Arranged By [Rhythm Arrangement] – Quincy Jones (tracks: 3, 4, 7, 8)
Arranged By [Rhythm, Vocal And Synthesizer Arrangements] – Rod Temperton (tracks: 1, 2, 5, 6)
Arranged By [Vocal Arrangement] – Patti Austin (tracks: 4, 7 to 9), Quincy Jones (tracks: 3, 4, 7), Rod Temperton (tracks: 3, 4, 8)
Bass – Anthony Jackson (tracks: 4, 7, 8, 10), Eddie Watkins, Jr. (tracks: 3, 5, 9)
Drums – Chris Parker (tracks: 4, 7, 8, 10), John Robinson (tracks: 1 to 3, 5, 6, 9)
Electric Piano – Richard Tee (tracks: 7, 8, 10)
Guitar – Eric Gale (tracks: 4, 7, 8, 10), Steve Lukather (tracks: 1, 3, 4 to 6, 9)
Keyboards – Greg Phillinganes (tracks: 1 to 3, 5, 6, 9)
Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa (tracks: 1 to 3, 5, 6, 9), Ralph MacDonald (tracks: 4, 7, 8)
Producer – Quincy Jones
Synthesizer – Bob James (tracks: 3, 4, 8, 10), David Foster (tracks: 1, 5, 6), Greg Phillinganes (tracks: 1 to 7, 10), Michael Boddicker (tracks: 1, 2, 5 to 10), Rod Temperton (tracks: 2, 5, 7)
Vocals [All Vocals] – Patti Austin (tracks: 2 to 4, 6 to 10)

GEORGE BENSON & AL JARREAU — Givin' It Up (2006) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Givin' It Up finds crossover jazz icons guitarist George Benson and vocalist Al Jarreau teaming up for a breezy, enjoyably melodic session that highlights both artists' long careers. Technically a duo album, it is Benson's first since signing with Concord Records. As such, it works as a nice reintroduction to both artists and even finds them reworking the Bobby Womack classic "Breezin'," which Benson originally covered on his 1976 album of the same name. Here listeners get Jarreau adding lyrics and vocals on a version that really evokes the classic '70s jazz-meets-R&B sound that was an original hallmark of smooth jazz. In that sense, Givin' It Up is a true joy for fans of that more organic, song-oriented approach to crossover music, with Benson and Jarreau digging in to such great songs as Seals & Crofts' "Summer Breeze," John Legend's "Ordinary People," and Darryl Hall's "Every Time You Go Away." Also adding some unexpected fun and celebrity sheen to the proceedings is an impromptu appearance by Paul McCartney, who joins in on Sam Cooke's gospel-inflected "Bring It on Home to Me." Throw in appearances by trumpeter Chris Botti, vocalist Patti Austin, pianist Herbie Hancock, and bassist Marcus Miller and Stanley Clarke, and Givin' It Up proves music is always fun with a little help from your friends. Matt Collar 
Tracklist :
1 – Breezin' 5:40

Arranged By – Larry Williams

Drums – Vinnie Colaiuta
Electric Bass – Abraham Laboriel
Guitar – Dean Parks, George Benson, A. Ray "The Weeper" Fuller
Keyboards – Larry Williams
Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa
Vocal Percussion – Al Jarreau
Vocals – Al Jarreau, George Benson
Written-By – Al Jarreau, Bobby Womack
2 – Mornin' 5:02
Arranged By – Michael Broening
Backing Vocals, Vocal Percussion – Al Jarreau
Bass – Mel Brown
Drums – Michael White
Guitar – Freddie Fox, George Benson
Keyboards, Piano, Programmed By [Programming] – Michael Broening
Producer – John Burk, Michael Broening
Saxophone – Marion Meadows
Written-By – Al Jarreau, David Foster, Jay Graydon
3 – 'Long Come Tutu 6:37
Arranged By – Marcus Miller
Bass – Marcus Miller
Co-producer – Marcus Miller
Drums – Michael White
Guitar – George Benson
Keyboards – Patrice Rushen
Piano – Herbie Hancock
Vocals – Al Jarreau, George Benson
Written-By – Al Jarreau, Marcus Miller
4 – God Bless The Child 3:40
Featuring Jill Scott
Arranged By – George Benson, John Burk, Patrice Rushen
Bass – Marcus Miller
Drums – Vinnie Colaiuta
Electric Piano – Patrice Rushen
Guitar – George Benson
Vocal Percussion – Al Jarreau
Vocals – George Benson, Jill Scott
Written-By – Arthur Herzog, Jr., Billie Holiday
5 – Summer Breeze 5:01
Arranged By – Larry Williams
Bass – Marcus Miller
Drums – Vinnie Colaiuta
Guitar – Dean Parks, George Benson, A. Ray "The Weeper" Fuller
Keyboards, Piano – Larry Williams
Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa
Vocals – Al Jarreau, George Benson
Written-By – Darrell Crofts, Jimmy Seals
6 – All I Am 3:23
Arranged By – Rex Rideout
Drums – Gregg Field, Ricky Lawson
Electric Bass – Abraham Laboriel
Electric Piano – Patrice Rushen
Guitar, Vocals – George Benson
Piano – Rex Rideout
Written-By – Phillip "Taj" Jackson, Rex Rideout
7 – Ordinary People 5:18
Arranged By – Michael Broening
Backing Vocals – Al Jarreau, George Benson
Bass – Mel Brown
Drums – Michael White
Guitar – Freddie Fox, George Benson
Keyboards, Piano, Programmed By [Programming] – Michael Broening
Producer – John Burk, Michael Broening
Written-By – John Legend, will.i.am
8 – Let It Rain 4:54
Featuring Patti Austin
Arranged By – Al Jarreau, Barry Eastmond
Arranged By [Background Vocals] – Patti Austin
Backing Vocals – Darlene Perry, Lorraine Perry, Maxi Anderson, Patti Austin, Sandra Simmons Williams, Sharon Perry, Valerie Pinkston
Bass – Marcus Miller
Drums – Vinnie Colaiuta
Electric Piano – Patrice Rushen
Guitar – George Benson
Keyboards – Barry Eastmond
Percussion – Bashiri Johnson, Paulinho Da Costa
Producer – Patti Austin
Producer [Additional Production] – Barry Eastmond, Gregg Field
Rhythm Guitar – Dean Parks
Trumpet – Chris Botti
Vocals – Al Jarreau, Patti Austin
Written-By – Al Jarreau, Barry Eastmond
9 – Givin' It Up For Love 3:57
Arranged By – Freddie Ravel
Arranged By [Background Vocals] – Fred Martin, Freddie Ravel
Backing Vocals – Alethea Mills, Chavonne Morris, De'Ante Duckett
Clavinet, Drums, Electric Piano, Organ, Programmed By [Percussion], Synthesizer [Moog Bass], Synthesizer – Freddie Ravel
Guitar – George Benson
Producer – Freddie Ravel, John Burk
Rhythm Guitar – Michael O'Neill
Vocals – Al Jarreau, George Benson
Written-By – Al Jarreau, Freddie Ravel
10 – Every Time You Go Away 4:30
Arranged By – Larry Williams
Bass – Marcus Miller
Co-producer – Larry Williams
Drums – Vinnie Colaiuta
Guitar – Dean Parks, George Benson, Michael Thompson
Keyboards – Patrice Rushen
Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa
Piano – Larry Williams
Vocal Percussion – Al Jarreau
Vocals – Al Jarreau, George Benson
Written-By – Darryl Hall
11 – Four 5:15
Bass – Stanley Clarke
Co-producer – Chris Dunn
Drums – Vinnie Colaiuta
Guitar – George Benson
Piano – Patrice Rushen
Vocals – Al Jarreau, George Benson
Written-By – Jon Hendricks, Miles Davis
12 – Don't Start No Schtuff 4:44
Arranged By – Joe Turano
Bass – Stanley Clarke
Drums – Vinnie Colaiuta
Electric Piano, Organ – Joe Turano
Guitar – George Benson
Keyboards – Patrice Rushen
Vocals – Al Jarreau, George Benson
Written-By – Al Jarreau, Joe Turano
13 – Bring It On Home To Me 4:25
Featuring Paul McCartney
Arranged By – Randy Waldman
Arranged By [Background Vocals] – Fred Martin
Backing Vocals – Alethea Mills, Chavonne Morris, De'Ante Duckett
Drums – Vinnie Colaiuta
Electric Bass – Abraham Laboriel
Electric Piano – Patrice Rushen
Guitar – Dean Parks, George Benson
Organ – Michael Broening
Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa
Piano – Randy Waldman
Vocals – Al Jarreau, George Benson, Paul McCartney
Written-By – Sam Cooke

PATTI AUSTIN — The Real Me (1988) Two Version | FLAC (image+.tracks+.cue), lossless

And how! Austin tackles standards such as "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" and "They Can't Take That Away from Me," and succeeds brilliantly. Her version of Comden, Green, and Bernstein's "I Can Cook, Too" is enough by itself to make this a pick. William Ruhlmann
Tracklist :
1.    I Can Cook Too 5:11
Arranged By – David Pack
Arranged By [Horns] – David Pack, Greg Phillinganes, Jerry Hey
Arranged By [Vocals] – Patti Austin
Backing Vocals – Patti Austin
Bass [Synthesizer] – Greg Phillinganes
Drums – Vinnie Colaiuta
Guitar – David Pack
Horns [Synthesizer] – Greg Phillinganes
Lyrics By [Additional Coda] – David Pack, Patti Austin
Saxophone, Woodwind – Daniel Higgins
Synthesizer – David Benoit
Trombone – Bill Reichenbach 
Trumpet – Gary Grant, Jerry Hey
Written-By – Betty Comden And Adolph Green, Leonard Bernstein
2.    Stockholm Sweetnin' 1:34
Arranged By [Vocals] – Patti Austin
Written-By – Quincy Jones
3.    Smoke Gets In Your Eyes 4:13
Arranged By – David Benoit, David Pack, Patti Austin
Arranged By [Vocals] – David Pack, Patti Austin
Backing Vocals – Patti Austin
Bass – Nathan East
Congas [Electronic] – David Pack
Drums – George Perilli
Keyboards – David Benoit
Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa
Saxophone [Solo] – Ernie Watts
Written-By – Jerome Kern, Otto Harbach
4.    True Love 3:46
Acoustic Bass – Roscoe Beck
Arranged By – David Pack
Arranged By [Strings] – David Benoit
Arranged By [Vocals] – David Pack, Patti Austin
Drums – Jeff Porcaro
Harp – Gail Levant*
Keyboards – David Benoit
Percussion – George Perilli
Saxophone [Solo] – Michael Brecker
Vocals [Duet] – David Pack
Written-By – Cole Porter
5.    Across The Alley From The Alamo 3:44
Accordion – Bruce Hornsby
Acoustic Guitar, Baritone Guitar – David Pack
Arranged By – David Pack
Arranged By [Vocals] – David Pack, Patti Austin
Backing Vocals – David Pack, James Ingram, Michael McDonald
Body Percussion – David Pack
Lap Steel Guitar, Slide Guitar – David Lindley
Percussion [Bottle, Foot, Wall Banger] – Patti Austin
Percussion [Twang, Whistle, Shaker] – Paulinho Da Costa
Snare, Drum [Cardboard Box] – Burleigh Drummond
Written-By – Joe Greene 
6.    How Long Has This Been Going On? 4:05
Arranged By [Keyboards] – David Benoit
Arranged By [Strings] – Marty Paich
Conductor – Marty Paich
Harp – Gail Levant
Synthesizer [DX7] – David Benoit
Written-By – George & Ira Gershwin
7.    Lazy Afternoon 5:45
Arranged By – David Benoit, David Pack, Patti Austin
Arranged By [Vocals] – David Pack, Patti Austin
Backing Vocals – Patti Austin
Bass – Patti Austin
Classical Guitar – Earl Klugh
Drums – Jeff Porcaro
Flugelhorn [Solo] – Jon Faddis
Keyboards – David Benoit
Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa
Percussion [Electric] – David Pack
Written-By – Jerome Moross, John Latouche
8.    Love Letters 3:53
Arranged By – David Pack
Arranged By [Vocals] – David Pack, James Ingram, Michael McDonald
Backing Vocals – David Pack, James Ingram, Michael McDonald
Bass – Roscoe Beck
Drums – John Robinson 
Guitar – David Pack
Piano – Michael McDonald, Richard Tee
Saxophone [Solo] – Ernie Watts
Synthesizer – David Benoit
Written-By – Edward Heyman, Victor Young
9.    They Can't Take That Away From Me 3:57
Arranged By – David Benoit, David Pack, Patti Austin
Arranged By [Horns] – David Benoit, David Pack, Jerry Hey, Patti Austin
Arranged By [Vocals] – David Pack, Greg Phillinganes
Drums – George Perilli
Keyboards, Synthesizer [Horns & Strings] – David Benoit
Saxophone, Woodwind – Daniel Higgins*
Synthesizer [Bass] – Greg Phillinganes
Trombone – Bill Reichenbach (2)
Trumpet – Gary Grant, Jerry Hey
Written-By – George & Ira Gershwin
10.    Mood Indigo 3:24
Arranged By – Patti Austin
Arranged By [Vocals] – Patti Austin
Backing Vocals – Patti Austin
Bass – Chuck Domanico
Clarinet – Johnny Rotella*
Conductor, Arranged By [Horns] – Jimmie Haskell
Guitar – Earl Klugh
Piano, Synthesizer – David Benoit
Saxophone – Gregory Huckins*
Trombone – Bill Watrous
Tuba – George Callender*
Written-By – Barney Bigard, Duke Ellington, Irving Mills
11.    Cry Me A River 4;18
Arranged By [Strings] – Marty Paich
Bass – Chuck Domanico
Conductor – Marty Paich
Harp – Gail Levant*
Piano – David Benoit
Synthesizer [Strings] – David Benoit
Trumpet [Solo] – Jon Faddis
Written-By – Arthur Hamilton
12.    Someone Is Standing Outside 3:54
Arranged By [Inspired By] – Jimmy Webb
Arranged By [Vocals] – David Pack, Patti Austin
Backing Vocals – Amy Holland, David Pack, Howard Hewett, James Ingram, Luther Vandross, Michael McDonald, Patti Austin, Tata Vega
Bass – Joe Puerta
Drums – John Robinson (2)
Piano, Synthesizer [DX7] – Richard Tee
Synthesizer [Strings] – David Benoit
Written-By – Jimmy Webb
13.    Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most 5:07
Arranged By [Strings] – Marty Paich
Conductor – Marty Paich
Harp – Gail Levant*
Synthesizer [DX7] – David Benoit
Written-By – Fran Landesman, Tommy Wolf

MARILYN SCOTT – Avenues of Love (1998) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

A top-notch adult contemporary vocalist still awaiting a well-deserved crossover commercial breakthrough, Marilyn Scott adds powerful fuel to her cause on Avenues of Love by helping herself with a well-balanced array of production and songwriting talent. George Duke surrounds her with party voices and a kneejerking Latin groove on a playful list of dance steps on "I Like to Dance," then surrounds her clear, sensuous voice with airy, billowing synth cushioning on the Bacharach-David classic "The Look of Love." Scott and bassist Jimmy Haslip reroute to Memphis on Michael Ruff's Wilson Pickett-like pick me up, "Love Is a Powerful Thing," engaging a two-piece horn section that sounds even larger. The Yellowjacket touch is in full effect on the picturesque "Avenida del Sol," which approximates an update of the gentle Astrud Gilberto sound; the tune was written by Scott and Bob Mintzer, and produced by Scott, Haslip, and Russell Ferrante. Scott's greatest gift here is her sense of modulation; she belts like crazy on the funk pieces, but recognizes the emotional power of restraint on the ballads. Jonathan Widran 
Tracklist :
1.    Starting to Fall    4:47
 George Duke / Marilyn Scott 
2.    I Like to Dance    5:00
 George Duke / Bob Mintzer / Marilyn Scott 
3.    Avenida del Sol    4:27
 Bob Mintzer / Marilyn Scott 
4.    The Look of Love    5:38
 Burt Bacharach / Hal David 
5.    Heaven's Design    5:53
 Bobby McFerrin 
6.    Love is a Powerful Thing    4:30
 Michael Ruff 
7.    Hold You Up    5:34
 Russell Ferrante / Jimmy Haslip / Marilyn Scott 
8.    Hey Love    6:16
 Russell Ferrante / Jimmy Haslip / Marilyn Scott 
9.    Get Home    5:45
 Russell Ferrante / Jimmy Haslip / Marilyn Scott 
10.    The Last Day    3:38
 John Ewbank / Brenda Russell 
Credits :
Bob Mintzer - Composer, Guest Artist, Horn
Brandon Fields, Steve Allen - Saxophone
Fred Washington - Bass
George Duke - Bass, Bass Programming, Composer, Executive Producer, Guest Artist, Keyboards, Piano, Producer, Vocal Producer
Jimmy Haslip - Bass, Composer, Producer
Joe Heredia - Drums
Lori Perry - Arranger, Vocal Arrangement, Vocals (Background), Voices
Marilyn Scott - Composer, Primary Artist, Producer, Vocals, Vocals (Background)
Michael Landau, Mike Miller, Ray Fuller - Guitar
Michael Ruff - Composer, Keyboards, Vocals (Background)
Paul Jackson, Jr. - Guest Artist, Guitar
Paulinho Da Costa - Guest Artist, Percussion
Rafael Padilla - Percussion
Ralph Rickert - Trumpet
Russell Ferrante - Arranger, Composer, Keyboards, Producer
Take 6 - Guest Artist
Walt Fowler - Horn
William Kennedy - Drums
Yellowjackets - Guest Artist
Alvin Chea, Sharon Perry, Carolyn Perry, Darlene Perry, David Porter Thomas, David Powell,  Lynn Davis, Richard Montgomery, Lisa Horton, Jim Gilstrap, Mary Turner, Maxayn Lewis - Vocals (Background) Voices 

AL JARREAU — All I Got (2002) Two Version | FLAC (image+.tracks+.cue), lossless

Al Jarreau hits you with all he's got on his second release for the GRP/Verve recording label. The 11-song program, appropriately titled All I Got, features Jarreau's imaginative vocal stylings, lots of innovative urban sensibilities, and top-tier performances from a stellar band that includes his longtime musical director, Freddie Ravel, and a duet with guest star Joe Cocker. Urban innovation is more than a buzzword here. The urban sound of producer Paul Brown imparts a soulful message on such songs as "Random Act of Love,""Secrets of Love," the title track, and the very hip a cappella rendition of "Route 66," each of which reflects Jarreau's pioneered use of unfolding a musical story layer by layer. A prime example is his reverse take on street violence called "Random Act of Love," something this world desperately needs. Instead of just another range of excessive scatting and vocal gymnastics, Jarreau presents his listeners with real-world concepts that make a difference in your interpretations of these aural pleasures. He becomes a vehicle of revelation on the gospel-tinged "Feels Like Heaven to Me." On the other side of his musical personality is the lovely fullness of "Until You Love Me" and "Jacaranda Bougainvillea," both of which feature a string orchestra set against an oasis of vocal skills. Overall, All I Got showcases the award-winning Jarreau's unmistakable stylistic diversity in settings that are fluid, soulful, jazzy, and romantic. In some ways, the music even exceeds the versatility heard on the critically acclaimed Tomorrow Today. Paula Edelstein  
Tracklist :
1.    Random Act Of Love 4:45
Arranged By – Steven Dubin
Producer [Produced By] – Steven Dubin
Written-By – Nelson Jackson, Siedah Garrett, Steven Dubin
2.    Life Is 4:00
Arranged By, Co-producer [Co-produced By] – David "Kahlid" Woods, Paul Brown
Written-By – Al Jarreau, David "Kahlid" Woods, Paul Brown
3.    Never Too Late 4:04
Arranged By – Jerry Hey, Paul Brown
Written-By – Al Jarreau, John Stoddart, Paul Brown
4.    Feels Like Heaven 4:38
Arranged By – Steven Dubin
Arranged By [Vocal Arrangement] – Sherree Ford
Producer [Produced By] – Paul Brown, Steven Dubin
Written-By – Manuel Seal, Siedah Garrett, Steven Dubin
5.    Lost And Found 4:52
Arranged By – Paul Brown
Arranged By [Horns Arranged By] – Jerry Hey
Written-By – Al Jarreau, Tom Canning
6.    Secrets Of Love 4:36
Arranged By – Rex Rideout
Co-producer – Rex Rideout
Written-By – Milton Davis, Rex Rideout
7.    All I Got 5:31
Arranged By – Al Jarreau
Arranged By [Horns Arranged By], Co-producer [Co-produced By] – Jerry Hey
Written-By – Al Jarreau, Arno Lucas, Chris Walker, Freddie Ravel, Joe Turano, Jota Morelli, Ross Bolton
8.    Until You Love Me 4:40
Arranged By [Orchestra] – Bill Meyers
Arranged By, Co-producer [Co-produced By] – Rex Rideout
Concertmaster – Bruce Dukov
Strings – Berj Garabedian, Bruce Dukov, Charlie Bisharat, Dan Smith, Darius Campo, David Stenske, Denyse Buffum, Evan Wilson, Eve Butler, Haim Shtrum, John Wittenberg, Larry Corbett, Margaret Wooten, Mark Robertson (3), Matt Funes, Michele Richards, Peter Kent, Steve Richards, Susan Chatman, Suzie Katayama
Written-By – Rex Rideout
9.    Oasis 6:20
Arranged By – Paul Brown, Ricky Peterson
Arranged By [Additional Arrangement By] – Jerry Hey
Written-By – Al Jarreau, Ricky Peterson
10.    Jacaranda Bougainvillea 4:46
Arranged By – Jerry Hey, Paul Brown
Arranged By [Strings Arranged By], Co-producer [Co-produced By] – Jerry Hey
Concertmaster – Bruce Dukov
Strings – Berj Garabedian, Bruce Dukov, Charlie Bisharat, Dan Smith, Darius Campo, David Stenske, Denyse Buffum, Evan Wilson, Eve Butler, Haim Shtrum, John Wittenberg, Larry Corbett, Margaret Wooten, Mark Robertson, Matt Funes, Michele Richards, Peter Kent, Steve Richards, Susan Chatman, Suzie Katayama
Written-By – Al Jarreau, Arno Lucas, Chris Walker, Freddie Ravel, Joe Turano, Jota Morelli, Ross Bolton
11.    Route 66 2:34
Arranged By – Al Jarreau
Written-By – Bobby Troup

JEAN-LUC PONTY — Le Voyage : The Jean-Luc Ponty Anthology (1996) 2CD | Two Version | FLAC (image+.tracks+.cue), lossless

Ponty has worked with Frank Zappa and John McLaughlin, has provided brilliant violin work as a session player, and has had a terrific run as a bandleader. This two-disc set dips into Ponty's Atlantic Records releases, tracing the development of Ponty's particular brand of jazz fusion and providing a very nice look at his career as a bandleader. A few of the cuts seem a bit watery and thin, but this has more to do with the original recording and mixing than the performances or mastering -- Rhino's mastering department has provided the usual quality of production here. Jean-Luc Ponty is a notable performer in the jazz arena, one who has a clear vision and strong ideals when it comes to his music -- he likes to test his boundaries and explore new possibilities. A notable collection. Steven McDonald
Tracklist 1 :
1. "Question with No Answer" – 3:29   
2. "Bowing-Bowing" – 4:53   
3. "Echoes of the Future" – 3:11   
4. "Aurora, Pt. 2" – 6:15   
5. "Waking Dream" – 2:26   
6. "Renaissance" – 5:48   
7. "New Country" – 3:09   
8. "Enigmatic Ocean, Pt. 2" – 3:37   
9. "Enigmatic Ocean, Pt. 3" – 3:43   
10. "Mirage" – 4:54   
11. "Egocentric Molecules" – 5:49   
12. "Cosmic Messenger" – 4:41   
13. "Ethereal Mood" – 4:04   
14. "I Only Feel Good with You" – 3:17   
15. "No Strings Attached" (live) – 6:02 
Tracklist 2 :
1. "Stay with Me" – 5:36   
2. "A Taste for Passion" – 5:25   
3. "Once a Blue Planet" – 4:05   
4. "Forms of Life" – 4:49   
5. "Rhythms of Hope" – 4:03   
6. "Mystical Adventures, Pt. 4" – 0:47   
7. "Mystical Adventures, Pt. 5" – 5:06   
8. "Jig" – 3:58   
9. "Final Truth, Pt. 1" – 4:55   
10. "Computer Incantations for World Peace" – 5:41   
11. "Individual Choice" – 4:57   
12. "Nostalgia" – 5:03   
13. "Eulogy to Oscar Romero" – 2:34   
14. "Infinite Pursuit" – 5:59   
15. "In the Kingdom of Peace" – 4:04   
16. "Caracas" – 3:51   
17. "Forever Together" – 5:46
All songs by Jean-Luc Ponty.
Personnel :
Jean-Luc Ponty - Autoharp, Violin, Electric Piano, Organ, Synthesizer, Bass Synthesizer, Keyboard Bass, Electronic Percussion
Joaquin Lievano, Peter Maunu - Guitar, Guitar Synthesizer
Daryl Stuermer, Dan Sawyer, Martin Atangana, Allan Holdsworth, Scott Henderson , Jamie Glaser - Guitar
Allan Zavod - Piano, Clavinet, Organ, Keyboards, Synthesizer
Patrice Rushen - Piano, Clavinet, Organ, Synthesizer
Chris Rhyne - Piano, Keyboards, Synthesizer, Bass Synthesizer
Wally Minko - Piano, Keyboards
Mokhtar Samba - Drums, Cowbells, Timbales
Norman Fearrington, Ndugu, Ray Griffin - Drums, Percussion
Mark Craney - Drums
Abdou M'Boup - Cowbells, Shaker
Paulinho Da Costa - Percussion

MELODY GARDOT — The Absence (2012) Two Version | Decca – 2792657 EU + SHM-CD Decca – UCCU-1351 | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Melody Gardot's 2009 sophomore effort, My One and Only Thrill, sustained the sultry, atmospheric vibe of her critically acclaimed 2006 debut, her 2012 follow-up, The Absence, is a bit of a creative departure for the vocalist. Apparently inspired by her world travels, and specifically by a trip that brought her to the desert around the city of Marrakech, the album moves her away from smoky, small-group jazz and into a bright, if still bedroom-eyed, rhythmically exotic sound. Produced by guitarist/composer Heitor Pereira, the album is a lush, somewhat orchestral album that finds Gardot delving into various Brazilian, Spanish, and African-influenced sounds -- including bits of samba, tango, bossa nova, and calypso -- that evince her global journey. However, rather than simply making a standards album, Gardot continues her all-original approach, offering up new literate and passionately delivered compositions that bring to mind the work of such similarly inclined artists as Antonio Carlos Jobim, Paul Simon, Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, and others. Although there are a few name musicians who help add spice to Gardot's musical caravan here, including percussionist Paulinho Da Costa, drummer Peter Erskine, and bassist John Leftwich, primarily it is still Gardot's burnished and yearning vocal style that takes the helm on these tracks. Matt Collar  
Tracklist :
1    Mira 4:16
Written-By – Gardot
2    Amalia 3:03
Written-By – Pereira, Gardot, Roy
3    So Long 3:50
Written-By – Gardot
4    So We Meet Again My Heartache 4:32
Written-By – Gardot
5    Lisboa 5:27
Written-By – Gardot
6    Impossible Love 3:49
Written-By – Gardot
7    If I Tell You I Love You 3:35
Engineer [Recording, Assistant] – Glenn Barratt
Written-By – Gardot
8    Goodbye 3:41
Written-By – Harris, Gardot
9    Se Voce Me Ama 4:56
Written-By – Pereira, Gardot
10    My Heart Won't Have It Any Other Way 2:24
Written-By – Gardot
11    Iemanja 4:00
Written-By – Gardot
12    The Willow (Bonus Track) 7:00
Written-By – Roy
Credits :
Backing Vocals – Alfie Silas Durio, Ali Witherspoon, Bill Cantos, Bill Maxwell, Louis B. Price, Phil Roy, Tata Vega
Bandoneon – Coco Trivisonno
Bass – John Leftwich
Clarinet – Ron Kerber
Conductor – Nick Glennie Smith
Drums – Jim Keltner, Peter Erskine
Flute, Bass Clarinet, Clarinet, Alto Flute – Dan Higgins
Orchestrated By – Ladd McIntosh
Percussion – Paco Arroyo, Paulinho Da Costa, Yolanda Arroyo
Piano, Melodica – Larry Goldings
Piano, Portuguese Guitar – Melody Gardot
Producer, Arranged By, Vocals [Additional], Guitar [All], Piano, Percussion – Heitor Pereira
Saxophone [Slide], Tuba – Doug Webb
Trombone – Andrew Lippman
Trumpet – Harry Kim, Ramon Flores

JOE SAMPLE — Rainbow Seeker (1978-1996) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Back in 1978 when this set was recorded, fusion (the mixture of jazz improvisation with rock rhythms) was declining. Keyboardist Joe Sample, best-known for his work with the Crusaders, was in the process of being one of the founders of "contemporary jazz," an idiom that has since solidified into smooth jazz. Sample emphasized catchy melodies, light funk rhythms, appealing chord changes and a pop sensibility. For this accessible release, Sample is joined by the late legendary guitarist Billy Rogers, bassist Pops Popwell, his old Crusaders drummer Stix Hooper, a horn section and several guest guitarists. All eight tunes (which include "Fly with the Wings of Love" and "Islands in the Rain") are by the leader, who is heard throughout in melodic form, setting up a variety of light grooves that serve as superior background music. Scott Yanow    Tracklist & Credits :

JOE SAMPLE — Carmel (1979-1985) APE (image+.cue), lossless

Pianist Joe Sample is a pioneer at creating melodic and accessible pop-jazz. His recordings of the 1970s and '80s were consistently popular, especially this best-seller. Sample is joined on most selections by fellow Crusader Stix Hooper on drums, electric bassist Abraham Laboriel, percussionist Paulinho Da Costa, and, often, guitarist Dean Parks. Flutist Hubert Laws guests on "Midnight and Mist." The memorable melodies, clean harmonics, and Sample's fine playing make Carmel a high point among his solo recordings  Scott Yanow    
Tracklist & Credits :

JOE SAMPLE — Voices in the Rain (1980) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

There is a fair amount of variety on this reasonably enjoyable but not essential release from keyboardist Joe Sample. Most of the tunes fall into the area of funky crossover with strong melodies, danceable rhythms and few chances taken. Flora Purim takes the vocal on "Shadows" and is joined by two other singers for the spirited "Burnin' Up The Carnival." The acoustic "Sonata In Solitude" has violinist L. Subramaniam, guitarist John Collins and bassist Ray Brown, but that is a one-time departure on what is basically a commercial set geared for radio airplay. Scott Yanow    Tracklist & Credits :

JOE SAMPLE — The Hunter (1983) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Joe Sample returns to the smooth jazz style of his popular albums Rainbow Seeker, Carmel, and Voices in the Rain on 1983's The Hunter. The keyboardist fills up a studio with like-minded session musicians including trumpeter Tom Browne, horn players Chuck Findley, Jerry Hey, and Ernie Watts, guitarists Dean Parks, David Spinozza, and Phil Upchurch, bassists Abraham Laboriel and Marcus Miller, percussionist Paulinho Da Costa, and drummer Steve Gadd, and sets them loose on some rhythmic tracks with a rock/R&B feel. The beat is paramount, a constant augmented by funky, popping basslines, with guitar solos and horn charts overlaid. And, weaving in and out is Sample, on either acoustic or electric piano, finding room to solo extensively. The solos are more of the rock variety than what a conventional jazz fan would recognize, since they are anchored to the relentless beats. But Sample is one of the more accomplished players in smooth jazz, and his sidemen are able to support him and, when given the chance, match him in their playing. William Ruhlmann    Tracklist & Credits :

JOE SAMPLE — Oasis (1985) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Pianist Joe Sample, who has had easily the most successful solo career of any of the Crusaders, recorded a series of melodic and lightly funky sets for MCA in the 1980s. This particular outing (which is available on CD) is unfortunately quite weak due to the forgettable melodies. Sample is joined by Dean Parks, Carlos Fearing, David T. Walker and/or Barry Finnerty on guitars, either Wilton Felder, Abraham Laboriel or Nathan East on bass, drummer Ndugu, percussionist Paulinho Da Costa and occasional synthesizers and strings; he plays well enough, but the material is quite inferior. One song ("The Survivor") features Phyllis Hyman's over-the-top R&B singing. Otherwise, the program consists of lightweight instrumentals, pleasant but mundane. Get Sample's Carmel instead. Scott Yanow    Tracklist & Credits :

DIZZY GILLESPIE | LALO SCHIFRIN — Free Ride (1977-1993) RM | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Although Lalo Schifrin is justifiably praised for his soundtrack work, many jazz purists turn up their noses at his jazz dates, such as his '60s work with Jimmy Smith and Wes Montgomery. The things that make Schifrin an anathema to the diehards -- the huge orchestras, the pop and soul riffs, the general air of over the top theatricality -- are all over 1977's Free Ride, his reunion date with Dizzy Gillespie. (Schifrin had been Gillespie's arranger in the late '50s.) In fact, Free Ride is so painfully dated that it's transformed into cockeyed cool, just the sort of record ironic hipsters should listen to while they're reading the novelizations of '70s cop shows that they bought for a bundle off of eBay. Gillespie plays with his usual wit and panache, but most of the time, he sounds like a sideman on his own album; the real focus of Schifrin's arrangements is the funky wah-wah guitars and ARP synthesizer solos that take center stage on tracks like "Fire Dance" (which sounds exactly like it should be the theme for a Charlie's Angels spinoff) and the mellow disco of the closing "Last Stroke of Midnight." Occasionally, Gillespie gets to break out on his own album, with the lovely solo on "Love Poem for Donna" his particular standout. For what it is, Free Ride is really quite good (guests include Lee Ritenour and future star Ray Parker, Jr.), but it's very much a record of and for its time. Stewart Mason  Tracklist + Credits :

DAVE GRUSIN / LEE RITENOUR - Harlequin (1985) WV (image+.cue), lossless

Tracklist :
1    Harlequin (Arlequim Desconhecido) 4:42
Composed By – Ivan Lins
Lyrics By – Victor Martins
2    Early A.M. Attitude 4:59
Composed By – Dave Grusin
3    San Ysidro 4:59
Composed By – Lee Ritenour
4    Before It´s Too Late (Antes Que Seja Tarde) 5:18
Composed By – Ivan Lins
Lyrics By – Victor Martins
5    Silent Message 6:09
Composed By – Dave Grusin
6    Cats Of Rio 5:18
Composed By – Don Grusin
7    Beyond The Storm (Depois Dos Temporais)     5:37
Composed By – Ivan Lins
Lyrics By – Victor Martins
8    Grid-Lock 4:03
Composed By – Lee Ritenour
9    The Bird 5:48
Composed By – Harvey Mason, Mike Lang
Credits :
Backing Vocals – Carol Rogers (faixas: 1, 4), Marietta Waters (faixas: 1, 4), Regina Werneck (faixas: 1, 4)
Bass – Abraham Laboriel (faixas: 5, 8), Jimmy Johnson (faixas: 1 to 4, 6, 7)
Drums – Carlos Vega (faixas: 1 to 4, 5, 6), Harvey Mason (faixas: 1, 4)
Guitar, Producer, Arranged By – Lee Ritenour
Percussion – Alex Acuña (faixas: 1, 8), Paulinho Da Costa
Piano, Keyboards – Dave Grusin
Programmed By [Drums] – Harvey Mason
Programmed By [Midi-piano] – Randy Goodrum
Programmed By [Synthesizer] – Marcus Ryle
Vocals – Ivan Lins (faixas: 1, 4)

JOE PASS AND PAULINHO DA COSTA - Tudo Bem! (1978-1985) FLAC (image+.cue), lossless

After countless solo guitar albums for Pablo, Joe Pass performed this welcome change of pace, a set of Brazilian tunes. Joined by fellow guitarist Oscar Castro Neves, bassist Octavio Bailly, drummer Claudio Slon, percussionist Paulinho da Costa and keyboardist Don Grusin, Pass plays warm solos on a variety of Brazilian tunes. Highlights include three songs by Antonio Carlos Jobim (including "Corcovado" and "Wave"), Deodato's "Tears," and Luiz Bonfa's "The Gentle Rain." A melodic and infectious date that has been reissued on CD. by Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1     Corcovado 6:20
Antônio Carlos Jobim / Vinícius de Moraes
2     Tears (Razao de Viver) 3:32
Deodato
3     Wave 10:08
Antônio Carlos Jobim
4     Voce (You) 3:10
Ronaldo Bôscoli / Roberto Menescal
5     If You Went Away 3:04
Marcos Valle
6     Que Que Ha? 4:11
Don Grusin / Octavio Bailly, Jr.
7     The Gentle Rain (Chuva Delicada) 4:11
Luiz Bonfá / Matt Dubey
8     Barquinho 6:11
Ronaldo Bôscoli / Roberto Menescal
9     Luciana 4:55
Antônio Carlos Jobim / Gene Lees / Vinícius de Moraes
10     I Live to Love 3:20
Oscar Castro-Neves / Luverci Fiorini / Ray Gilbert
Credits :
Bass – Octavio Bailly Jr
Drums – Claudio Slon
Guitar – Joe Pass, Oscar Castro Neves
Keyboards – Don Grusin
Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa
Producer – Norman Granz