ERIC MARIENTHAL - IT'S LOVE

Saxman Eric Marienthal is certainly no stranger in the world of contemporary jazz, and, more importantly, not a stationary or idle figure. Having worked with everyone from Chick Corea’s Electrik Band to the Rippingtons, he has firmly implanted himself as one of the most sought-after saxophonists in the biz. Here with his newest release, It’s Love, the versatile artist draws on the experience and support he’s received over the years.

The masterfully done project is produced by his longtime friend, guitarist/producer and Fourplay newest member Chuck Loeb. Loeb’s presence is almost immediately felt in the production. Says Marienthal of Loeb,”Working with Chuck on It’s Love was a great experience that was in many ways an extension of the creative live performances we had been doing together. His jazz melodies, harmonies, and solos constantly inspired me to up my game and took the album to a whole other level.” Yeah, it’s easy to see how Loeb can have that impact.

Adding to Loeb’s presence, Marienthal calls on (who else?) producer/keyboardist Jeff Lorber for his handiwork on the album, as well as Yellowjackets members keyboardist Russell Ferrante (with whom he’d worked before on such Marienthal projects as Got You Covered) and bassist Jimmy Haslip. The blend of all of these high profile artists splashes such color on the canvas of this project that it’s almost blinding.

In addition to some sparkling originals, Marienthal nods in appreciation to this likes of Brenda Russell, covering her “Get Here” flawlessly; the “Duke” (Duke Ellington), covering his “In A Sentimental Mood” so sentimentally and with much obvious respect; and the Fab Four (Beatles), covering “Can’t Buy Me Love” in a cool, laid-back interpretation of the classic.

The saxman takes care of these covers right up front as the first three tracks, then cuts loose on his original material which includes the romantic title track, co-written with Loeb, and the solidly jazz-lined “Two In One” and “Costa Del Soul,” also co-written with Loeb. On the latter piece, Lorber and Haslip are featured. Of course, as many know, both are now also integral parts of the revived Jeff Lorber Fusion. Lorber also co-wrote the snappy “Babycakes” (one of my faves) with Marienthal. More Yellowjackets influence appears as Ferrante’s keys figure nicely in “Café Royale.”

In the sweet and tender finale, “When I Found You,” keyboardist Brian Culbertson drops by to offer his fabulous skills to complement Marienthal’s telling sax. Alone by candlelight with your heartthrob, ‘nuff said.

There’s much to like here as a true smooth jazz aficionado. There’s not an overwhelming or overbearing amount of R&B here (it’s sprinkled in here and there on a few pieces). This is sweet contemporary J-A-Z-Z, tastefully written and performed. Marienthal’s sax is clear, definitive, and crisp as he announces each track from the depths of his soul. This is what it’s all about, jazz fans. Treat yourselves to a listen. – Ronald Jackson

Thesmoothjazzride.com