Keep your party hearty with this roaring groovefest. On its 6th trip, this acid jazz band knows just how to liven up your cocktail shindig with a brass section that can awaken even the dullest senses. Producer/composer DJ Stuart Wade’s music has lost none of its fire, despite trading out a few members of the ever rotating UK "kings of jazz groove." Neil Angilley, Tony Remy, Julian Crampton, Phil Nelson, Richard Sadler, James Knight, Tim Stuart, Pablo Mendelssohn, and Neil Burditt ably realize Stuart’s inspired vision (Stuart’s a non-musician who hums and dictates the material he "hears" to other musicians). Vibraphonist Roy Ayers and a transcendent Hil St. Soul make dynamic appearances on this mostly instrumental project, but its Stuart’s raw band members who really grind these grooves down to the gristle. Notable songs: "The Brighter Side," "In The Pocket" and "Smash and Grab."
Vocals: 3 stars Lyrics: 3 stars Music: 4 stars Production: 4 stars SoulTracks Call: Highly Recommended
By: L. Michael Gipson