Open Door is Durham native Willie Hill's fifth self-released album and it's definitely his best project to date. Hill not only produced, engineered and arranged the 9 tracks, but he also wrote all but two of the tunes, did most of the instrumental work, released the album on his own label and has secured distribution in Europe and in the U.S. (with Redeye distribution). There are few rock musicians in our market with this sort of indie credibility.

Hill may well be the most industrious musician in our region, but beyond his amazing work ethic, consider this; "Open Door" is an excellent record. Hill works a sophisticated new jazz fusion. He lays down a lively jazz-funk track on "Me&JB" keyed by James Brown's alto sax. On the song, "Late Nite," Hill creates a mellow jazz groove in which alto sax player James Brown spins out a beautiful melody. Tony Springs brings great emotional depth to the vocals on "Let This Be Love." Vocalist Yvette Bolden performs beautifully on "Interlude," which she also wrote. Seven of the songs are instrumentals. Fans of smooth jazz must give this album a listen; it's a classy piece of work.

Further albums: