The rain forest of the Amazon Basin has been threatened by deforestation and slash-and-burn for many decades. In 1990 keyboardist and composer Merl Saunders terrified by the devastation assembled a group of musicians that included Grateful Dead front man Jerry Garcia. They founded the Rainforest Band and released the album Blues From the Rainforest – A Musical Suite. Merl’s son bassist Tony Saunders connected with guitarist Vernon “Ice” Black and gospel keyboardist Sylvester Burks to create a new suite of songs dedicated to the rainforest. The new album Peace To The Planet follows the intention of the previous formation, to make a contribution to saving the rainforest through music. The album opens with S.I.Z., an energy loaded contemporary jazz tune featuring Jeff Ryan on saxophone as melody determining factor. Consequences continues to glisten with the eloquence and proficiency of guitarist Vernon “Ice” Black. Caribbean Sunset presents a dynamic Bossa Nova tune with an elegant piano solo by Sylvester Burks and Vernon's blissful guitar performance. On My Mellow Ways Tony's bass is the dominant instrument battling with Vernon's electric guitar. One More Time is the ideal platform for guitarist Black to shine with riveting hooks. Gumbo Groove tackles without any shortcoming on Hammond B3 and keyboards. God's Nature shines in all its glory painted by Jeff Ryan on soprano sax. Annisa is build on a bass run, which might be familiar to fans of the Gap Band. Just Before Sunrise is a melody with great emotional addictive potential. Reflections allures with a colorful keyboard flute sound speaking in romantic language. Windows of Time is penned by Tony Saunders featuring Jeff Ryan on sax again. Verano Dias is swaying in a lovely Samba rhythm presenting guitarist Vernon “Ice” Black as closing act. The Rainforest Band continues with distinguished musicianship the supporting tradition of their forerunners. A good reason to purchase the CD. The intense mix of fresh music is certainly the second reason.
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Album Information
Title: Peace To The Planet
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