Multi-instrumentalist Justin Lee Schultz is thirteen. Let me repeat that. Justin Lee Schultz is thirteen and has already, dazzled audiences on TV shows such as Harry, Little Big Shots and American’s Most Musical Family.
His debut album, ‘Gruv Kid’, is out now on the Shanachie Entertainment label and, with featured performances from the likes of Bob James, Harvey Mason, Najee, Jonathan Butler, Gerald Albright, and Pieces Of A Dream, is every bit as good as the early hype suggested it would be.
Take for instance his jazzy fusion tinged take on the Stevie Wonder classic ‘Do I Do’ or the foot tapping title cut which proves to be a slice of piano driven smooth jazz of the highest order. In similar vein is the wonderful ‘Better Days Ahead’ and although the mellifluous ‘Color Blind’ is among the best that ‘Gruv Kid’ has to offer it is when Schultz eases down the tempo that he conjures up the magical ‘Miracle’ that has class written all over it.
Talking of teen sensations guitarist Brandon ‘TAZ’ Niederauer starred in the smash Broadway show ‘School Of Rock’ and here he steps up to lend a hand with ‘Back Of The Moon’ where his interplay with Shultz on keys is incredible.
Another sublimely crafted collaboration finds Shultz teamed with flautist Najee for the spine tingling ‘African Chant’ while elsewhere he partners with the legendary Bob James to re-imagine ‘Angela (Theme From Taxi)’ that originally appeared on James’ 1983 CD ‘The Genie’ which not only kick started James’ career but arguably heralded in the genre that we now recognise as smooth jazz.
It is standout track in an album crammed full of them yet in terms of personal favourites it is difficult to look beyond ‘Just In’ which, with contributions from both Gerald Albright and Pieces Of A Dream, is right up there with the very best of 2020.
Highly recommended.