CD Review: Compared To That (Brian Bromberg)

By
Charles A. Smith

Brian Bromberg's new CD, "Compared To That" is a classic in the making that's done by a master who is surrounded by others of equal skill, but on different instruments. The new 10 track CD, which will be released on June 5th by the Grammy nominated bassist/producer/composer/arranger who has played with everyone who's anyone in the world of music, is absolutely phenomenal. Never has a bass sounded so good! With jazz royalty artists like Alex Acuna, Gannin Arnold, Charlie Bisharat, Randy Brecker, Vinnie Colaiuta, George Duke, Bela Fleck, Mitch Forman, Larry Goldings, Gary Meek, and Tom Zink recording the album live in a two day jam session with Bromberg, the CD was destined for greatness and did not miss the mark. "If Ray Brown Was A Cowboy" is a powerful testimony to Bromberg's abilities on the upright bass, and well worth the listen. The solo is very well done, and it's interesting to note how a bassist can play the dominant role in a piece without being overbearing. You'll find folk jazz, classic jazz, smooth jazz, jazz fusion, and everything else you can think of or would like to hear on this album. The hybrid of styles and samples is amazing, and Bromberg's range in both playing and composing is exceptional and unique. "Hayride" is another great cut which incorporates instruments that are unconventional in jazz, such as the banjo, but with great results. The bottom line is, "Compared To That" is simply incomparable. Surrounded by a group of musicians who hold up their end of the jazz bandwagon, Bromberg is free to let his creative juices flow, and he does it with style and finesse. This is the music of a man who is at the top of his game.

CD Review: Soulmine (Frank Gambale)

By
Paul Anderson


Grammy winning guitarist Frank Gambale delivers an outstanding new recording in "Soulmine" that reflects a career of innovative playing. To illustrate the point, there's even a Frank Gambale Signature Guitar -- the FG1 made by Carvin Frank, which is the best of the best.The arrangements on "Soulmine" feature Gambale's beautiful wife Boca, and an amazingly talented vocalist whose voice is soothing, seductive, and made for jazz. While her presence, and artistry of expression clearly set the tone on the first tune, "Love Set Me Free," there's something for on the album for all listeners.

Boca's vocal style is engaging and there is a passion that clearly comes through in her performances. Jazz fans who miss the days of the  fresh, creative, and authentic music of  Jazz-Rock and Fusion will appreciate uncompromising harmonies and influences ranging from Latin to Pop, and I'm smiling because I've missed Return to Forever, and  Brand X. A big thank you to Frank Gambale for not forgetting to how to bring it! This album is sure to garner another Grammy nomination, and is a must have for any serious jazz collector and music lovers who enjoy good music in general. If you want to find out what's been missing on your smooth jazz station, "Soulmine" is your answer.