Keyboard player Gail Jhonson has been a Smooth Jazz Therapy favorite since her wonderful CD ‘Keep the Music Playing’ first hit the streets. Jhonson’s special brand of edgy smooth jazz really made her stand out from the crowd and when, in late 2008, the follow up ‘Pearls’ was released it proved to be even better. The latest track from the album to go to radio is the sumptuous ‘Pacific Breeze’ which leaves the listener in no doubt as to her consummate skill as writer and performer. It is certain to be a massive summer radio hit and if that wasn’t enough the excellent nuGroove label has also released a bonus vocal version of another cut from ‘Pearls’. Penned by Donald Tavie, and as edgy as it is laid back, ‘Runnin Around’ is a stunningly deconstructed piece that, with the addition of lyrics, is taken to another place.
Although Gail remains musical director and touring keyboard playing for smooth jazz superstar Norman Brown, ‘Pearls’ is an outstanding album that has massively reinforced her solo credentials. It comes highly recommended. Catch Gail live this summer as part of Norman Brown’s Summer Storm Orchestra tour. For more information go to www.gailjhonson.com