Search - Bob James :: Playin Hooky

Top Shelf

E. B. Hopkins | Seattle, WA | 06/21/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Bob James is a JAZZ MASTER..PERIOD! His understanding of the piano and jazz nuances make this ONE of my favorites of his. The CD covers styles from ballads, to Latin and also a little R&B influence, and is BRIMMING with programmed synthesizer and percussion. As I mentioned, top shelf. Add THIS one to your collection!"

Take a breather! Try PLAYIN' HOOKY for a change!

James R. Prater | Cleveland Tn. | 10/13/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Bob James treats us to a "musical vacation" on this CD, his solo follow-up to RESTLESS. "Playing With Fire" is a new twist on a familliar melody by Chopin. "Mind Games" is radio-ready, featuring Bob at the Rhodes with Boney James (no relation--his real name is James Oppenheim). "The River Returns" features vocalisation by Bob's daughter Hilary. It bleeds into "Organza", which reminds me an awful lot of "Lotus Leaves". Bob reels us in with the funky "Hook, Line, And Sinker", featuring Oppenheim and a great horn section out front. "Glass Hearts" is a poignant tune, embodying the musical spirit of Jobim and Chopin. "Night Sky" is worthy of musing. New talent Rasheeda puts an orgasmic spin on the Gershwins' "Do It Again". "Love Is Where" features the East brothers Marcel and Nathan, and Rick Braun. "Are You Ready" is a sexually charged tune with some ingenious modulations and chords. True Bob James in every sense of the word!"

One of Bob James Best!

Fifty Seven Jazz | Cincinnati USA | 04/18/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've been a Bob James fan since the early 70's. While I have generally enjoyed his music over the years, I have given him a fair amount of criticism for producing unimaginative "smooth jazz" from time to time. He has created some gems (Three, Touchdown, Grand Piano Canyon) and few clunkers, too (Foxie, Hands Down, 12). However, this CD rates as one of his best efforts. "Playing With Fire" is reminscent of his enjoyable mid 70's compositions and has a nice Latin sound. "Mind Games" has gotten a great deal of airplay and it's always nice to hear Boney James and Bob James collaborate. The big surprises here are "Night Sky" and "Love is Where." Both are superb compositions and are reminders that Bob can write stunningly beautiful music."