Marion Meadows | Secrets

Hey there all you Marion Meadows fans. The man is back and serving up the smooth jazz tasty as ever with his latest release on Heads Up International entitled Secrets. Due in stores in late May, Secrets
showcases the saxophonic virtuosity and the timeless grooves we have
all come to know and appreciate, and after listening to this album you
will all agree, Marion’s music is like fine wine; it just gets better
with time. This follow up to his the previous album, Dressed to Chill, shares the accompaniment of some great artists like Philip Hamilton, vocalist Charlie Karp, and Impromptu, just to name a few, and is sure to keep you engaged and waiting in anticipation from track to track.

Having listened to Marion Meadows albums for some time now, as well as having the awesome experience of seeing him live, I’ve come to know that each track carries with it a theme that goes hand in hand with its title. This recording is no exception as the album begins nice and smooth with the title track, Secrets. It quickly segways to Let the Top Down, a track that instantly puts you on the PCH, bouncin’ with the groove. You Lift My Heart is a melody for all the real playas who want to tell their lady how much they are appreciated. Then we follow it up with a sprinkle of Soul Sugar, a groove that makes you hit repeat.  The Child In Me slows it down and has the feel of a laid back lullaby. Got your dancin’ shoes on? Well get ready ’cause Sand Dancers will have you doing the Cha-Cha in no time. Track 7, Playtime is for all the kids who one day dream of being President. Now its time to get your Flirt on with track 8. This track is particularly my favorite because I enjoy hearing how he marries the soprano and tenor on the playback. Follow this up with a well done rendition of a Bobby McFerrin classic, Friends.

Next, the Urban Angels kept watch over the groove. Nicely done!  The Shade Tree is also one of my favorites as you quickly embark on a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about that special someone. The album wraps up nicely with Here To Stay, a song originally done by the Pat Methany Group. This track builds and flows into a jam session with some awesome guitar and keyboard solos by Brian Morgan and Jay Rowe, respectively. I’m really looking forward to hearing this one live.

Sultry grooves, laid back lullabies, and soul stirring melodies make this album a must have for all the smooth jazz afficianados who truly appreciate the gift of music that an artist like Marion Meadows continues to share with us unselfishly. The Urban Music Scene is proud to be a part of the ever
changing experiences that come with knowing such an art form like
smooth jazz. So drop this in the player and let it run around and
reveal all the Secrets that lie within. See ya next time.