The American pianist, keyboard player and composer Brian Simpson has been one of my favorites in the smooth and contemporary jazz genre for many years. Now I have finally got his latest digitally album, which was already released on June 16, and he says about it himself: “Every performance and recording presents an opportunity to bring happiness to a world of listeners. Music has an unparalleled ability to make a difference in our lives. I continue to appreciate how it can inspire people through good and bad times and never take for granted the opportunity I have been given to play a small role in someone's life.” This is his 11th album, and his 8th with Shanachie Entertainment. Brian mixes jazz, funk, blues and soul in his music, but always with some optimism. He opens with the title track, a “feel good” track that floats on an infectious light funky rhythm, which also features guitarist Adam Hawley. Halfway through the track, however, that rhythm changes. The relaxed 'Out of the Blue' with sax by Steve Alaniz sounds really great. Then we leave for the Spanish city of Barcelona, where I have already been, for the Latin-like 'Barcelona', and we take a leisurely stroll on the Ramblas, accompanied by guitarists Yaron Levy and Ray Fuller. And it doesn't stop, because 'Meadow Breeze' lets you fully enjoy a gentle breeze in a meadow, so wonderful to escape the stress. ‘See You Again’ sounds more groovy and R&B-inspired, with vocals by Will Gaines. The only cover here is ‘Stranger in Paradise’ from the 1953 musical ‘Kismet’. I sway along to Brian's soft piano playing, and enjoy. Then we come to a midnight atmosphere with 'Midnight Mood' in the company of Adam Hawley and Steve Alaniz. And we continue until 'Until the Break of Dawn', a groovy mid-tempo track that makes you dance. 'Through the Tears', on the other hand, is more introverted, wonderfully sounding and thereby creating a melancholy atmosphere. Finally it is time for the closing track, and that is 'Going Home', which has some gospel tinges. A beautiful album, one that I cherish next to Brian's other albums. A must for fans of smooth and contemporary jazz, because Brian is a master!
		Tracks: Soul Connection Out of the Blue Barcelona Meadow Breeze See You Again Stranger in Paradise Midnight Mood Until the Break of Dawn Through the Tears Going Home Brian Simpson