All-For-7
All-For-7
is comprised of Kevin Stevenson (drums) and partner Jerry Hutchinson
(keyboards, guitars). Although All-For-7 is their debut album, both
musicians have a longtime-partnership. They first met in 1985 at a
studio session. "When we got together I really didn't know what
direction our vision of contemporary jazz could produce. Could we
create a collage of musical styles i.e. hip-hop, r&b, along with
the sounds we heard when we were growing up? After cutting "A
Walk In Paradise" and "Outta Your Hands", we knew we
had a foundation to build upon."
If you like keyboardists like Greg
Karukas, pianists like David Benoit or Bobby Lyle, this is a great
addition to your CD-library. A Walk In Paradise
is a slow-tempo contemplative song. Something for dreaming along. Lead
instrument is piano backed by drum-programming and synth-strings. If
you are tired from work and want to relax, this tune is the right
stuff for diversion.
Message Of Life
is more energetic featuring Michael Lewis on muted trumpet. The song
has a funky appeal and is perfectly arranged with instrumentation on
the point.
On Outta Your
Hands Jerry Hutchinson shows his hipness as guitarist and
pianist. Some George Benson mixed with Ronny Jordan, they caught the
hooking melody.
If You Stay
represents the same mood as A Walk In Paradise.
Piano tintinnabulation with awesome synth-soundscape.
Uptempo like a fountain in spring Lighthouse
leads us back to dance floor. Solo Rodriguez on fretless bass
sets accents. Greetings to the Rippingtons!
If you like music of piano players as
Alex Bugnon Morningtime will find your
attention. Jerry Hutchinson has
obviously a great equipment of keyboards and he knows to master it.
Kevin and Jerry are perfect observer
of contemporary instrumental music. When I Look
At You is a good example how they can transpose their
observations. Rhythm, melody and arrangement are in ideal harmony.
Jerry's running on piano or keyboards is sovereign. It smells after
George Benson.
Harvest
reminds at the music of Earth, Wind & Fire, especially the
background motive. But that's legitimate when it sounds good.
When We Get to
Heaven is featuring Melvin Smith on alto saxophone. Smith has
shared the stage with Norman Conners, Michael Henderson, and the
legendary drummer Charlie Persip. Smith has a great affinity to gospel
music which is audible.
Another saxophonist presented on Twelfe
8 Shuffle is Kevin Davis. A talent we will definitely hear more
from in near future.
After several spins I can just applaud
All-For-7. This album should be on all purchase lists.
