It was almost two years ago, when reviewing the debut CD, ‘First Impressions’, from saxophonist Hulon, that I described him as being far from your typical contemporary jazz performer. Indeed, an entrepreneur by day and a sax player by night, he has a successful medical practice in Panama Beach, FL and is a founder member of the Florida based band ‘On Call’. ‘First Impressions’ was produced by none other than Jeff Kashiwa and now Hulon is back with his follow up, ‘After Hours’. It is due for release on February 7 and again has Kashiwa playing a significant part as writer, producer and back-up performer.
‘After Hours’ opens with the very listenable ‘Two In The Morning’ which is in the best traditions of the classic slow jam and is embellished by a soulful vocal from Howard Hewitt that works really well. Hulon retains this soulful feel with a faithful interpretation of the Luther Vandross hit ‘Always And Forever’ which, much like the original, is smooth, velvety and stoked with emotion. When he later reprises the number in instrumental form the result is just as good and elsewhere ‘Sticky Trickuation’ is a mid tempo tune with an appealing inbuilt swagger. Hulon notches down the groove for the slow moody title cut and things remain decidedly relaxed for ‘Step By Step’. It proves to be another example of accessible contemporary jazz that is lifted in no small part by stunning interplay between Hulon and keyboard player Bill Heller.
‘Takin’ My Time’ puts Hulon into a rhythmic, gospel tinged, mood that seems to suit him well. It’s a tune that is enriched by great guitar from Allen Hinds (did I also hear a few bars of ‘People Get Ready’ in there?) and although ‘Do You Feel Me’ is an instrumental, it is another track with something of a big, uplifting gospel undertone and more superb guitar from Hinds.
A further song of note is ‘Speak Easy’ where all the listener needs to do is think the theme from the Pink Panther then lock into Hulon’s slinky delivery while ‘Second Opinion’ has a good vibe, is among the album’s better cuts and is a tasty slice of smooth jazz.
However, all things considered, in terms of personal favourites it is the zesty ‘Backstep’ that gets the nod. With some nice flashes of Hammond B3 from Heller, this retro tinged number finds Hulon really getting on a role and is right up there with the projects finest.
With the added bonus of a good foundation from Dave Hooper on drums and Melvin Davis on bass ‘After Hours’ is a collection that should contribute favorably to Hulon’s growing reputation.
For more go to www.hulonsax.com