Everette Harp - In The Moment (2006)

Sax man Everette Harp has been on the whole Smooth Jazz ride, from the early days when it was called "New Adult Contemporary" 'til now, when it's a brand name. The thing that I've always liked and been impressed with about Everette's work is that he always stays true to the real roots of this music...jazz. That vibe always comes through in his playing, whether he's jamming or playing it sweet. He's been inspired by legends like Grover and Stanley Turrentine and Hank Crawford, he's been a sideman for so many superstars I'd use up my entire allotment of words just to list them. IN THE MOMENT is his 7th solo album, and his Shanachie debut. It has exceeded my expectations, and they were high to begin with! He's surrounded himself on this project with the best of the best, including special guests Norman Brown, George Duke, Jonathan Butler, Chuck Loeb, and Paul Jackson, Jr. The tunes are all originals, and vary from compelling ballads ("Just as You Are" and the title track) to funky jams ("Back to Basics" and "No Bout a Doubt It"), and of course the album is loaded with radio-friendly Smooth Jazz hits, including the first single, "Monday Speaks," which features Norman Brown. And yes, all these tunes have that solid jazz underpinning that stays true to the roots. I really dig Everett Harp's new CD, IN THE MOMENT, and recommend it as a must-have. Just open up your music library and let it in! ~ SCOTT O'BRIEN