Hugh Peanuts Whalum | TheUrbanMusicScene.com

Hugh ‘Peanuts’ Whalum

Kirk Whalum and Dave Koz have masterfully produced and composed a debut album by Kirk’s uncle, Hugh “Peanuts” Whalum.

‘Black Lacquer’ best describe this St Louis based Musicians musical talents! Smooth is a gross understatement! Hugh has accompanied legends such as Nat Cole, Lionel Hampton and Ella Fitzgerald and the arrangements are what you would expect from nephew Kirk.

Hugh Whalum showcases his talents as vocalist, pianist, saxophonist and appeals across several generations. Treat yourselves to familiar sounds as ‘Peanuts’ powerful and compelling vocals are reminiscent of the days past bringing to mind legends – Nat Cole, Johnny Mathis and Auther Prysock. His range is incredible, and yet he can ‘Scat” with the best of them.

Sit back and enjoy! This set will take you back to mid 1950’s Paris nightclubs, and 1960’s New York lounges. Track two is an Elvis Pressley remake Cant Help Falling in Love, and track nine is an uptempo spiritually filled hymn I Wanna Be Ready.

My favorite track which also happens to be the last, is the The Real Three Tenors with Peanuts, Nephew Kirk and Ken Whalum III on tenor saxes and Kyle Whalum on bass. So well orchestrated, that they sound as ‘one’. The guitar play of Rob Block is reminiscent of Les Paul and Duke Robillard. Among the all star line up is also drummer Chester Thompson, who toured with Phil Collins during the 1990’s. This bonus track is just over six splendid minutes long.

This album is more than just traditional jazz standards, this is truly a breath of fresh air and is a definite add to your Ipod, MP3 player, etc…of your ‘dynamic station listing’.

Andre Singleton

The Urban Music Scene

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