Fourplay Journey CD

Fourplay: Nathan East (bass guitar); Harvey Mason, Sr. , Larry Carlton, Bob James.
Personnel: Billiken Johnson (vocals, shaker); Nathan East (vocals, background vocals); Larry Carlton (guitar); Bob James (keyboards); Harvey Mason, Sr. (vibraphone, drums, percussion).
DJ: Cody Cassiero.
Audio Mixers: Don Murray ; Antonio "Moogie" Canazio.
Recording information: Firehouse Recording; Pyramid Studio.
Photographer: Jun Sato.
Smooth jazz supergroup Fourplay bring more laid-back pop tunes and lite jams to the group's eighth studio album, Journey. There aren't many surprises here for anyone familiar with the genre. However, pianist Bob James is a brilliant composer and tasteful improviser, and he raises the bar here on tracks like the intricate "From Day One" and the atmospheric "Departure." Similarly, drummer Harvey Mason's Brazilian jazz-inflected "Rozil" stands out, as does bassist/vocalist Nathan East's title track, which calls to mind guitarist Eric Clapton's acoustic work. This is a pleasant album that should appeal to longtime fans. ~ Matt Collar
Fourplay is the ultimate smooth-jazz outfit. Made up of four of the finest crossover artists, this group presents a cohesive mix of modern jazz and instrumental pop. Except for the opening track, "Fields of Gold," written by Sting, JOURNEY is made up of all original material; each player contributes tunes, and bassist Nathan East sings on about half the album. Tracks such as "From Day One," "Departure," and "Avalabop" sound similar to Pat Metheny's early ECM releases. However, these pieces are decidedly sweeter than Metheny's repertoire.
"147 4th Street" features some bold playing from Larry Carlton (known for his work with Steely Dan). The acclaimed guitarist also plays a great bluesy solo on his own composition "Cool Train." However, this album is generally made up of carefully restrained improvisations. The smartly composed, mellow compositions are left to speak for themselves on this disc of warm and breezy music.