Bobby Lyle is certainly a versatile pianist. His musical history was significantly showcased by his project "Straight and Smooth" (2004) featuring his mastership in smooth and classic jazz. 

His new record "Hands On" set for June 27th is presenting a different concept. "Although I have a background in traditional jazz, this record is focused on contemporary jazz. When I started out - with people like Grover Washington, Ramsey Lewis and Hubert Laws - we knew that we were bringing in younger listeners. Even today I like incorporating funky beats - to keep it interesting to listeners of R&B, pop, and even hip hop music", comments Bobby Lyle. "With this record, I'm going back to a more contemporary feel, but I'm still incorporating jazz elements".

The starting track Passion Drive is showcasing Bobby Lyle's smooth side. The melody is accessible and pleasing. Besides the melody line he finds enough space to let shine his professionalism on the beloved piano.

The supergroup EWF is steadily influencing contemporary musicians. EWF-member Maurice White wrote Best Of My Love for the group "The Emotions". The song was released on their second million-selling album "Rejoice" in 1977. This cover version has an excellent casting. Larry Spencer (trumpet), Wayne DeLano (sax), Keith Adkins (trombone) are the brass section and Dailyn Valdez, Melanie Covington, Derrick McCampbell the vocals. The similarity to the original version is significant.

The spirit of EWF is also to find in the guitar line of Hands On. This uplifting funky tune is certainly a self-runner.

Lost In Our Love is a soul ballade in the classic sense featuring singer Peabo Bryson who composed together with Bobby Lyle this song. Peabo Bryson has established a career as one of the premiere soul crooners of the last quarter century ("Soultracks"). "Peabo and I are good friends, says Lyle. "I've always admired his work and he's a first class crooner. He's so professional and easy to work with. He always delivers."

Fancy Pants is a very dynamic tune with an awesome guitar solo of Brennen Nase, who is currently touring with Bobby Lyle, followed by Dave Caseras' terrific sax solo.

Poinciana is one these classic songs which was played by artists with rank and name like Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Glenn Miller and more. Bobby Lyle redefines the original with new piano expression.

The member of the Doobie Brothers Michael McDonald and Lester Abrams composed Minute By Minute in 1978 creating a multi-selling success. A song with much appeal and emotions.

On True Spirit Bobby Lyle is creating a world of rhythm and melody supported by percussionist Jorge Ginorio. The Caribbean mood of this song reminds me at his earlier album "Secret Island" (1992).

El Paquito delivers some Spanish flavor. Bobby Lyle great talent is shining on when he leaves the melody path to add some improvisations.

On most tunes like Take A Step guitarist Todd Parsnow adds his signature. He performed with POAD, Joe Vincelli, Joe McBride, Kirk Franklin, Roy Hargrove's RH Factor and many more. Why are his guitar solos always so short that one cannot remark it as a solo?

Return of The Genie is catching contemporary musical themes of popular R&B, pop or hip hop. Similiarity to current melodies and rhythms is desired. 

Beth is dedicated to Bobby Lyle's partner and inspiration. Bobby Lyle performs this charming ballade with great emotions and elegance. 

With "Hands On" Bobby Lyle shows anew his prowess to combine modern musical sounds with popular melodies. His style is timeless and contemporary together.

 

 

 

 
  • Title: Hands On
    Artist: Bobby Lyle
    Year: 2006
    Length: 0:50:34
    Genre: Smooth Jazz
    Label: Heads Up International


    Tracks: 
    01 Passion Drive [4:34]
    02 Best Of My Love [3:45]
    03 Hands On [4:25]
    04 Lost In Our Love [4:20]
    05 Fancy Pants [4:26]
    06 Poinciana [4:38]
    07 Minute By Minute [3:49]
    08 True Spirit [4:27]
    09 El Paquito [4:14]
    10 Take A Step [4:06]
    11 Return Of The Genie [4:01]
    12 Beth [3:49]