All That Jazz - The Straight Skinny

The Straight Skinny

The Listening Room Returns

By Carol Archer

The Listening Room

Other than Talk formats, music is fundamental to great radio, right? But you need discipline, especially these hectic days, to make the needed time to listen, and hopefully deep. Last week I swept everything aside to languish among a veritable mound of recent releases.

Thanks to Broadcast Architecture for world premiering Sade’s long-awaited -- nine years, but who's counting? -- "Soldier of Love" ( Epic). Comprised primarily of ballads -- especially such amazing compositions as "The Moon And The Sky," "In Another Time" and "The Safest Place," gorgeous, deeply felt pieces (each of which I'd daypart, for starters) -- it's a breathtaking collection. Did you happen to catch her live "Soldier of Love" on David Letterman? Oh, my goddess!

Across the gamut of forms and genres, I have always had a penchant for singer-songwriters; for example, I'm crazy about Triple A acts Duffy ("Warwick Avenue" and "Mercy" kill me) and Ray Lamontagne. As format-compatible vocals gain ever-greater currency in Smooth Jazz in the PPM era, I strongly suggest that you explore Andy Scott's revelatory sophomore CD, Hope ( Goatboy Productions). In-pocket -- informed by hip, jazzy edges; commercial and interesting songs; a uniquely appealing vocal approach -- particularly the versions of "Learning to Fly" that open and close the recording -- this project warrants your utmost consideration for airplay. Editors note: For service on Andy Scott’s Hope, please contact Jason Gorov: jason@allthatjazzinc.com

Got tempo? Talented saxophonist Will Donato, is long overdue for across-the-board acceptance. Check out his hot, driving new joint, "Funkability" ( Innervision), which was written and produced by Darren Rahn.

Richard Elliot scores dramatically once again, blowing ardently his deep, soulful signature grooves and unmistakable rich, warm tone on "Retro Boy" ( Artistry). This track is retro, indeed, in the finest best sense of the word, and highly recommended.

Be sure to check out an electrifying offering from saxophonist Terje Lie ("Terry Lee"), "Urban Vacation" ( tcatrecords.com) -- straight-up one of the most audacious releases in recent memory. Co-written and produced by none less than the venerable Jeff Lorber and Jimmy Haslip, the collection embodies stylistic versatility, inventive composition, fierce instrumentation, substantial musical ideas and Ur-hip production. The recording is brilliantly sequenced too, unfolding fluidly through 10 tracks. (I know, novel.)

What are you listening to? Reach out to me with feedback at jazzdolphingirl@gmail.com. I am grateful for and uplifted by your ideas, musings and rants. Please, keep them coming.

Condolences

Finally, we extend deepest sympathy to respected veteran air talent Deborah Rath Howell on the grievous loss of her elder sister, Jenny. Please keep Deborah in your thoughts and prayers.

Have a great week, friends, and stay smooth.

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The views expressed by Carol Archer do not necessarily

reflect the opinions of All That Jazz. But often they do.

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