Artist History
Allan Phillips pens the first three tunes: "It's On,” “Café Con Leche” and "Wake Up Call.” The first is an up-tempo, funky groove featuring Tom Braxton trading energetic licks throughout with Leighton's alto flute. "Cafe" is the single Latin offering on the CD. This smooth back-beat cha-cha features Evan Marks’ guitar working in unison with Leighton's flute - punctuated by the horn section - with the two riding high over the horns in the out chorus. "Wake Up Call" brings the horns to the forefront in a hard-driving funk tune reminiscent of those great horn bands of the 70's. "She's Gone" is a classic Hall & Oats tune made popular by the 70's disco group "The Tavares" - performed as a soulful duet by Leighton and Tom Scott - this artful Allan Phillips arrangement builds throughout up to its driving, horn-laden finale. For a change of pace, "That Man” is a popish vocal offering featuring newcomer Paula Prophet's wonderful writing and superb vocal stylings. "Ode to Billy Jo" is an instrumental treatment of the Bobbi Gentry classic; one of the two tracks produced and arranged by Jason Miles, it features Leighton and his alto flute over a slinky, funky vibe. The next two Phillips originals offer a contrast in styles. "Rock Me Softly" features the muted trumpet of Greg Adams with Leighton's hum-over-playing on the alto flute - giving the tune an edgy, urban vibe - while "Undercover" is a mellow, jazzy selection with Adams, Marks and Leighton trading riffs throughout. Closing out the CD is another Jason Miles treatment - this time it's the classic Crusaders’ hit "Keep That Same Old Feeling.” In a mellow, chillin' groove, Leighton trades melodic phrases with vocalist Katreese Barnes; providing a fitting climax to this superbly crafted CD.
Bradley Leighton Blog
"Soul Collective" Reviewed by RadioIndy.com!
| POSTED BY: EricLawrence | POSTED ON: 14 May 2008 10:30 AM | ||
 "Soul Collective" by Bradley Leighton is a smooth jazz fusion album with groove and an upbeat flair. The arrangements are solid and very active. There is quite a lot going on in every song and yet it all comes together. The musiciansship throughout is outstanding. The sax and flute work in particular on this album really stand out, playing quite well off each other. The production on the CD gives an excellent classic smooth jazz sound. Highlights are "Cafe' Con Leche" with Latin elements in the percussion and a vibe that makes you feel like you are walking on clouds. "Ode to Billy Joe" has a funky bassline, mellow flute and nice accentual elements. "Undercover" is one of the strongest arrangements and features some fantastic guitar work. If you enjoy smooth jazz and listening to outstanding jazz musicians, you'll love this CD. -William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team Check out Bradley Leighton's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites |
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