Decades ago, The Jeff Lorber Fusion pioneered the smooth jazz genre. We hear this style of music often throughout our day from segments on The Weather Channel to background music and adult contemporary radio. Now, the band returns to the niche they helped popularize with their much-anticipated release, Galaxy.
The album features 11 original tracks. This includes new arrangements for four of Lorber’s most-requested compositions, “The Underground,” “The Samba,” “City” and “Wizard Island,” the latter which launched the career of the one and only Kenny G.
Galaxy opens with “Live Wire” a number which absolutely lives up to its title. The 7-minute-long tune is an upbeat blend of funk and house rhythms that are so contagious, you can’t possibly sit still while listening to them. Other highlights include “Big Brother,” a contemporary song which ventures a little in to the world of hip hop; “Montserrat,” a soulful R&B piece with a tinge of rock; and “The Samba,” a Latin-inspired jam of crisp horn and percussion instrumentals.
Although I wouldn’t say this is the most thrilling album I’ve heard in a while, it certainly is an energetic one. Also, it will go over very well with audiences during live performances. Jazz purists probably won’t be too fond of the electronic effects present - programmed rhythms, various pads, samples and the like. However, if you’re looking for some feel-good music that blends the sophisticated sounds of funk, R&B, rock and pop, then Galaxy is right for you.
For more information, please visit The Jeff Lorber Fusion website.