Friday, June 22, 2018

New Releases: Byron Lee - The Gift : Psychobass 2; Emilio Santiago; Leron Young – Compilations


Byron Lee - The Gift : Psychobass 2

For legendary bassist Byron Miller, “Psychobass” is more than a clever branding idea reflective of his lifelong passion for his instrument. It’s his full-on “a.k.a.” identity. His rhythmically eclectic, jump off your chair grooving new album THE GIFT: PSYCHOBASS 2 picks up where his 2015 long awaited return to action PSYCHOBASS left off. He keeps the deeply personal autobiography hopping with a sensual George Duke cover, some island fun and a mix of high octane and chill, Duke-inspired originals with appropriate funk and groove related titles. On hand to celebrate the bassist’s many gifts are Kirk Whalum, Paul Jackson, Jr., Walter Beasley, Munyungo Jackson and others.~ smoothjazz.com        

Emilio Santiago

Far Out Recordings proudly presents the 1975 self-titled debut album from Brazilian vocalist and bossa nova luminary Emilio Santiago. Nicknamed ‘the Nat King Cole of Brazil’, Santiago was a master bossa balladeer and a top-class crooner. But he is celebrated equally for his Brazilian funk, soul and boogie classics. One of his best know is album opener ‘Bananeira’, a party-starting version of the song originally written by João Donato and Gilberto Gil. ‘Brother’ is a smooth-grooving killer with great horn arrangements and a huge backing choir, while ‘La Mulata’ is a soulful swinging salsa stepper. The album showcases the full range of Emilio’s talents, while paying homage to some of Brazil’s greatest composers, including Jorge Ben, Marcos and Sergio Valle and Ivan Lins among others. Stone cold Brazilian classic!

Leron Young – Compilations

It’s testament to veteran electric guitarist, Leron Young’s artful, perfectly in the pocket composing skills, that the ultra-melodic, deep grooving original urban-flavored tunes on his album COMPILATIONS actually surpass the joys of his clever twists on familiar R&B and jazz classics. While his crackling licks are always front and center, Young enhances them with colorful synth harmonics and engaging vocal textures. In addition to being an accomplished guitarist, Leron is an electrical engineer, music teacher, member of the Bowie State Community Jazz Orchestra and author of a new book that makes the connection between engineering, music and human growth and development. ~ smoothjazz.com



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