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Crotchet Midprice

THE VERY BEST OF JEFF LORBER GRP 065 075 - 2

Jeff Lorber - piano, Mini Moog, Hammond B-3, synthesizers, electric bass, percussion programming, sequencing & arranger with various personnels.
Recorded 1993 - 2001.
 
1. Grasshopper
2. Iguassu Falls
3. Reverend Green
4. Bring It On
5. Katherine
6. Chopsticks
7. Yellowstone
8. Punta Del Este
9. Lost With You
10. PCH ( Pacific Coast Highway )
11. Rain Song
12. Say Love
13. Point Venus
14. State Of Grace
15. Do What It Takes

Jeff Lorber cites his main influences as Chick Corea and Herbie Hancock, but to my ears, there is an equally strong reference to the work of Stevie Wonder - which is not in any way a derogatory statement. The disc is listed as "Smooth Jazz " and this is probably a fair comment on the contents of this "Best Of " compilation.

I am afraid that it is rather too smooth for my ears. There is nothing wrong at all in the sense of musicality , arrangement or instrumentation, its just that the whole is redolent of the term "background music." This selection would be fine for driving to or might even be suitable for playing in shopping arcades, but I can find nothing that makes me want to stop and give it my full attention. This is not in the same class as Grover Washington or Kirk Whalum. It is a pity as Lorber is obviously a highly competent musician in all areas. This is only for the listener to the fringes of Jazz who does not wish to be aurally challenged.

Dick Stafford

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