On July 11, 2025, Contemporary Jazz supergroup Jazz Funk Soul—featuring pianist Jeff Lorber, saxophonist Everette Harp, and guitarist Paul Jackson, Jr.—drops their highly anticipated fifth studio album, Simpatico. It’s a ten-track sonic escape designed to lift spirits and move bodies, offering the ultimate soundtrack for summer.
More than just a collaboration, Jazz Funk Soul (JFS) is a union of three musical giants whose combined experience spans decades and thousands of studio credits. Collectively, they’ve sold millions of albums and landed over 50 #1 Contemporary Jazz radio hits. Now, with Simpatico, the trio delivers a fresh, high-energy set that blends sophisticated jazz with irresistible funk, smooth grooves, and soulful melodies.
“There’s a natural chemistry between us,” says Lorber. “We’re friends first, and that connection comes through in the music.” Harp adds, “Our goal is to bring joy—to offer listeners an escape from the pressures of everyday life. If we can help someone find a moment of happiness or groove, then we’ve succeeded.”
Each member of JFS brings a heavyweight pedigree. Jeff Lorber, a pioneer of the Fender Rhodes sound, has worked with legends like Miles Davis and Michael Franks and is often credited for helping launch Kenny G’s career. Saxophone powerhouse Everette Harp has performed with Aretha Franklin, Luther Vandross, Billy Joel, and Patti LaBelle, while Paul Jackson, Jr.—whose guitar work graced Michael Jackson’s Thriller—has recorded with everyone from Elton John and Natalie Cole to Quincy Jones and Whitney Houston.
Their new release Simpatico reflects that shared legacy and deep musical respect. “There’s real synergy,” notes Jackson. “We’re all walking in unity,” referencing Psalms 133. Harp echoes this, saying, “We want to keep things fun and funky, but also challenge ourselves—and our listeners—with unexpected musical turns.”
The album kicks off with Harp’s explosive “Get Up With JFS,” a high-octane blues-funk anthem featuring a fiery horn section. “That live horn feel reminds me of the great Jerry Hey arrangements from the Al Jarreau and Jay Graydon days,” says Harp. “And Paul’s gritty, rock-influenced guitar playing—very Larry Carlton—took this one over the top.”
From there, the trio detours to Paris with Lorber’s “Rue De Seine,” a stylish, melodic ride that captures the elegance of the City of Light. “It’s about capturing a mood,” says Lorber. “Paris is a city that loves jazz—and this song reflects that romantic energy.”
Jackson’s acoustic ballad “Janyce” floats in like a soft summer breeze, highlighting a more tender side of JFS. “This is my first acoustic guitar piece for the group,” Jackson reveals. “And having bassist Cornelius Mims—who I’ve known for over 50 years—on the track makes it even more special.”
Lorber’s “Rekindle” introduces a laid-back R&B-rock groove, while “Something Old, Something Borrowed, Something Blue” pays homage to George Duke, jazz tradition, and Harp’s earlier works. “It’s a fusion of past influences,” explains Harp. “The blues element is foundational—it’s always been in the DNA of jazz.”
Jackson’s funky throwback to 1980s club music, simply titled “Throwback,” is pure dancefloor magic. “We bring different flavors to the table,” says Harp. “And we push each other to deliver our best—every single time.”
The infectious title track “Simpatico” showcases Lorber’s signature bounce and vintage keys, channeling an “EWF meets Lorber Fusion” aesthetic. “It’s about joy,” says Lorber. “Music should feel good, even when it challenges you.”
Other highlights include the dreamy “Dreaming My Life Away,” where melody and soloing interplay seamlessly, and Harp’s shuffle-fueled “Ramblin’.” The album closes strong with the soulful, radio-friendly “Over Easy,” co-written by Lorber and Jackson.
Jazz Funk Soul originally formed in 2014 with guitarist Chuck Loeb as a founding member. His passing in 2017 left an indelible mark on the group. “Chuck was the ‘Jazz’ in Jazz Funk Soul,” says Harp. “He was inspiring, demanding, and always pushed us to rise to the occasion.”
Lorber agrees. “He had so much talent—as a guitarist, composer, and producer. I feel lucky to have collaborated with him.” Jackson adds, “Touring and trading solos with Chuck was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I joined JFS to honor his legacy—and I hope he’d be proud.”
Past JFS albums include Jazz Funk Soul (2014), More Serious Business (2016), Life and Times (2019), and Forecast (2022). With Simpatico, they add another gem to their ever-expanding musical legacy.
Jeff Lorber has been a dominant force in Contemporary Jazz for more than 50 years. His Grammy-winning Jeff Lorber Fusion earned ‘Best Contemporary Instrumental Album’ in 2017 for Prototype. A prolific producer, he’s worked with Kenny G, Dave Koz, and Gerald Albright. His recent solo album Elevate further showcases his passion for exploration and reinvention. “Good is never good enough,” Lorber says. “It has to be great.”
Everette Harp, a Grammy nominee and one of the genre’s most respected saxophonists, fuses jazz, R&B, pop, and funk with effortless soul. His sound is instantly recognizable—from hit records to TV themes like Entertainment Tonight and Soul Train. A former Arsenio Hall band member, Harp also hosted his own smooth jazz radio show in Florida and released his last solo album First Love in 2009.
Paul Jackson, Jr. is one of the most recorded guitarists in pop and jazz history. His credits include Michael Jackson, Barbra Streisand, Quincy Jones, Daft Punk, and more. He’s contributed to scores for Get On Up, Zootopia, and The Color Purple, and continues to inspire through his teaching at USC. Offstage, he’s a fan of vintage cars, dog training, and leads a men’s Bible study. His latest solo release is Stompin’ Willie Presents More Stories (2023).
With Simpatico, Jazz Funk Soul doesn’t just deliver another album—they offer a musical experience full of heart, groove, and expert craftsmanship. Each track reflects a trio perfectly in sync, honoring their roots while pushing boundaries. Whether you’re cruising the coast, relaxing at home, or dancing under the stars, this is the summer album your soul has been waiting for.
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