When I reviewed Steve Oliver’s 2006 album ‘Radiant’ I described it as being of significant quality and well worth checking out. Since then his two disc DVD –CD set ‘One Night Live’ has captured the magic of one of the hottest live acts around and now he is back with a collection of all original music, the hugely exciting ‘Global Kiss’. Released on his own label, and with an all-star line-up that includes Bob Baldwin, Alan Hewitt, Marion Meadows, Will Donato and Nate Harasim, this is a recording that will help define smooth jazz circa 2010.
First thing to remember about Steve Oliver is that as well as being a fabulous guitarist he is an equally excellent vocalist. But that’s not all. He is an also an engaging and different voice artist and, in addition, is able, by the use of his synthesized guitar, to single handedly produce a whole range of instrumental and orchestral sounds. On ‘Global Kiss’ this diversity is amply demonstrated with magically turned down gems such as ‘Angel Amore’ and Latin tinged delights like ‘Barcelo’ that comes complete with a dazzling piano solo from Nate Harasim and Oliver’s own top notch playing.
With something of a Moroccan feel, the title track pulses with energy that flows from Humberto Vela’s stunning percussion. The wailing violins of Antonio Pontarelli also add to the mood whist ‘Ba Aye’ proves to be a groove drenched ensemble piece with noteworthy contributions from Oliver, Will Donato, Alan Hewitt and long time collaborator Tom Schuman.
Co-produced by Nate Harasim, the sultry ‘Long Road’ owes much to more great sax from Donato and Harasim stays around to share production credits for the feel good ‘Fun In The Sun’ that has all the attributes necessary to make it an instant smooth jazz radio hit. Here, despite Oliver’s stellar input, the real showstopper is the wonderful sax interventions of the currently ubiquitous Darren Rahn while another tune with a zesty Latin undertone is the sparkling ‘Sunlight Within’. Schuman also plays a part and is similarly on hand to co-produce and play keyboards on ‘Life Goes On’ which incidentally finds Oliver in fine vocal form. The lilting beat may indeed prove to be addictive and when with ‘Fearless’ Oliver again makes use of his fine, pop orientated, singing voice both Alan Hewitt on keyboards and Steve Madaio on trumpet add to the smoky vibe.
Although ‘Another Place’ provides a tranquil oasis it also builds a bridge to the almost indecently catchy ‘True Vision’ that features the incredible Bob Baldwin on keys and the always excellent Marion Meadows on sax. An obvious choice for the next cut to go to radio it is already establishing itself as a firm Smooth Jazz Therapy favourite.
‘Global Kiss’ is due out on March 30 and comes highly recommended. For more go to go to www.steveolivermusic.com
