Keyboardist/Composer “RJ” does a yeoman’s attempt to bridge the modern urban sounds and voices of hip hop with mainstream job on this most recent release. Modern R&B beats and rhythms permeat tuens like “Midterm,” Tears of Anthony Diamond” and a very sleek reading of The Beatles’ “Come Together.” The voices of Windy Kairigianes and Jocelyn Winston, along with the spoken words of Khari Bowdenkeep the attitude in the lingo of the youth, while Eddie Rich’s flute on “The Stroke of Midnight” and John Coltrane’s “Naima” allow the voices and wisdom of ages past serve as a sagelike sound of direction. An encouraging direction for jazz’s minions, with something for all generations.
Jazz Bridge Records