Now that's smooth! With Elevate, Jeff Lorber has released a pleasingly groovy album that oscillates between jazz, funk, soul, fusion and a little pop feel. To ensure that this works well, he has found seven fellow musicians and a singer, although the latter is only used once. Which is a good thing.

Not that Brian MyKnight isn't a good singer. But to be honest: I consider vocals to be dispensable on albums that are categorised as contemporary jazz and could also be labelled smooth jazz (no, not the version that is denigrated as lift music). Because as nice as a voice is, the fixed changes and above all the soloistic capers that are possible with the various instruments can hardly be matched by a voice with its own resources.

It is also interesting to note that Elevate features two drummers: Gary Novak and John ‘J.R.’ Robinson - and they are not assigned to individual pieces. Also involved are Cornelius Mims on bass, Randal Clark on alto saxophone, David Mann on tenor saxophone and horn, Mark Lettieri as lead and rhythm guitarist, together with guitarist Erick Walls.

According to the label, Elevate is Jeff Lorber's 31st album, according to Wikipedia even his 35th. The keyboardist, rhythm guitarist and trained chemist doesn't so much experiment on it as he combines tried and tested structural elements and the expertise of his ensemble into a finely crafted mould.

Transparently mixed, the result creates an open stage on which the musicians sometimes act with feeling, sometimes with pressure and always with verve. Even from the tin, the tracks tempt you to tap your feet or swing along in tutto.

Jeff Lorber's Elevate is a beautiful fusion album that accompanies you through the day with sound and atmosphere (or mood?). And beyond. (Thomas Semmler, HighResMac)

Jeff Lorber, keyboards, Moog bass, rhythm guitar
Erick Walls, guitar
Mark Lettieri, lead and rhythm guitar
David Mann, tenor saxophone, horn, tenor saxophone, horn arrangement
Randal Clark, alto saxophone
Cornelius Mims, bass
Gary Novak, drums
John “J.R.” Robinson, drums
Brian McKnight, vocals (track 9)