Fourplay | Let’s Touch The Sky
Fourplay | Let’s Touch The Sky
by Peggy Oliver
A band can get into a period of complacency after long establishing their stake in the musical game. But the jazz quartet Fourplay on the heels of their new project, Let’s Touch The Sky, would not have any of that; inviting new Chuck Loeb in the guitar spot replacing long time member Larry Carlton. Bob James first discovered a musical connection with the other Fourplay personnel while still a solo recording artist. Their background work with James on his Grand Piano Canyon album in 1990 warranted a permanent working relationship. Thus, the super group Fourplay was born and they have been rocking the contemporary jazz charts since.
And ‘super group’ is an appropriate description considering the personnel involved: Eric Clapton’s reliable bass guitarist Nathan East, Harvey Mason, a drummer/percussionist and film composer in his own right; and original guitarist – the much in-demand session player Lee Ritenour. Their discipline in respecting each others talent and listening to each other as a whole is one reason why this band has earned their high reputation. Their self-titled debut in 1991 highlighted by ”After The Dance” featuring El DeBarge on lead vocals won the praise of critics and a cross section of urban music fans and remains one of the top charting contemporary jazz albums of all time. Fourplay continued stretching the musical parameters on consequent projects, especially on Fourplay…Yes Please (2000). Besides DeBarge, other guest lead vocalists that have graced various Fourplay recordings includes Chante Moore, Chaka Khan and now label mate Esperanza Spaulding. When not in the studio, the group is a qualified international success from the U.K. to Thailand. One of Fourplay’s biggest highlights, besides their longevity in the jazz community, is being recognized as the only group ever for distinguished musicianship by the U.S. Congress.
After spending time with Warner Brothers and RCA, Fourplay joined the increasingly popular independent jazz company Heads Up for their 2008 release Energy and their follow-up and latest release, Let’s Touch The Sky. Without fail, Fourplay loves to spice up the jazz game. The title track floats on a laid-back Latin atmosphere surrounding by the interplay of James and Loeb, and a few pleasantries along the way including East scatting along with his bass guitar and Mason’s marimba work. “3rd Degree” flexes that sophisticated funk. Quiet storm radio should embrace “More Than A Dream” with its dreamy soundscapes. Continuing in a mellow mood, “Pineapple Getaway” might interest the chill DJ’s with a drop-dead percussive loop propelled with tasty bass underpinnings. James pays homage to the recently passed jazz great, Hank Jones, in an acoustic jazz quartet setting – “Gentle Giant (for Hank).” Fourplay’s elegance certainly matches Jones’ legacy of stylish piano playing. In one of two guest vocal appearances, Ruben Studdard tackles one of Teddy Pendergrass’ soul masterpieces, “Love TKO,” with very satisfying results; even though it does not quite reach the embodiment of the original version. For some bounce to the ounce, “Above and Beyond” gives Loeb a chance to bring some high energy to the mix. Last but not least, “You’re My Thrill” is a rare opportunity to hear Anita Baker (before she returns with a projected solo effort this fall), and her sultry voice is still a major force in the soul jazz genre.
Though there are very few so-so tracks scattered throughout Let’s Touch The Sky, Fourplay has overall produced another winning project. And their indisputable virtuosity still establishes them as one of the few contemporary jazz icons.
Tracks:
Let’s Touch The Sky
3rd Degree
More Than A Dream
Pineapple Getaway
I’ll Still Be Lovin’ You
Gentle Giant (for Hank)
A Night in Rio
Love TKO
Above and Beyond
Golden Faders
You’re My Thrill
Peggy Oliver
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