Eric Darius – Just Getting Started
Eric Darius
Just Getting Started
(Narada Jazz – 2006)
by Ray Redmond
I have had the pleasure of meeting and talking with this young cat a few times and let me tell you, he’s just your average intelligent, mannerly, young, college-age fellow who happens to be one of the more energetic and creative saxmen on the smooth jazz scene right now.
“Steppin’ Up” starts the party rocking right away, follow hard by “Chillin’ Out” which features some sexy horn work by E.D. throughout the track. “Secret Soul” was written by, and features, smooth jazz sax star Euge Groove and has a touch of his flavor. Darius is in good company on this release with the likes of Groove and Brian Culbertson who penned the hot & bluesy CD closer “Slick” featuring Culbertson on a number of instruments, Ricky Peterson on B3 and Paul Jackson, Jr. kicking his guitar here and other spots on the CD.
“Back At Cha'” is my favorite right now, I like the melodic step and the way Darius swings while ramping it up. “Right Here, Right Now” is a sexy thing written by, and featuring, Paul Brown and Chuck Cymone and gives Darius yet another chance to showcase his range and rhythm.
Oh, and the Godfather of smooth jazz Jeff Lorber even makes an appearance playing Fender Rhodes on the up-tempo Eric Darius original “Groove On”. ‘Nuff said?
This young cat is really just getting started and with the company he keeps the sky is the limit. This is one of those CD’s with NO bad songs. Just put it on and ride… Four Stars.
