Gerald Albright – Groovology

To call Gerald Albright multitalented is an understatement. On his new CD he plays soprano, alto, tenor and baritone saxophones, flute, alto flute, keyboards, bass and drumms, as well as singing background vocals! Although he seems to cover the full gamut of musicians by himself, he is joined on this CD by the likes of Sheila E., Chris Bolton, Paul Jackson Jr., Ricky Lawson, Bobby Lyle, Chuckii Booker and many more. This all star cast comes together to put out a CD that combines a strong R&B influence with Albright’s smooth-jazz flavor. The Eric Clapton single Change The World gets a soulful treatment with some nice harmonies in the background. The Next Level is shot of straight smooth-jazz with Albright playing most of the instruments. Bring A Little Love is seductively smooth with some nice vocals.

The R&ampB track I Need You is nice but sounds a little too like Kenny G. in the sax area. Ain’t No Stoppin’, penned by Albright and smooth-jazz mafia godfather Jeff Lorber is an enthustiuastic track with some nice bass popping underneath. On the whole this is a good release from Albright. Good production and writing with a host of quality players make this a must-have for you smooth-jazz afficianados. Groundbreaking? No. Enjoyable? Definitely.