Some albums just fit with the mood of the moment and this is certainly the case with Richard Elliot’s latest project ‘Lip Service’. Not only does it satisfy the thirst smooth jazz fans currently have for big horn driven extravaganzas but also revisits a couple of old school classics of the sort that have enjoyed something of a resurgence in the recent past. Examples such as the Manhattans hit ‘Shining Star’ and Brian McKnight’s ‘Anytime’ are both worthy inclusions and although Elliot also finds space for the Bruno Mars track ‘I Was Your Man’ he is arguably at his best when interpreting his own music.
Take for example ‘Givin’ It Up’ that was written by Elliot, Paul Brown and Marco Basci or the title cut which has just been released to radio. Penned by Elliot, Paul Brown, Roberto Vally and Jeff Caruthers it’s one of those sultry yet mellifluous numbers for which Elliot is famous.
Top notch.