Search - David Benoit :: Right Here Right Now

Composer, pianist and three-time Grammy nominee David Benoit continues his legendary status as the pioneer of smooth jazz with his latest release, "Right Here, Right Now." Maintaining his signature style of tranquility, Benoit decides to loosen up a bit and add a little funk on this CD. The opening cut, "Watermelon Man" offers Herbie Hancock's classic funk but also embraces a retro-60's sound that Benoit classifies as "funky jazz" or "jazz rock". The title track, "Right Here, Right Now", produced by longtime friend and trumpet player Rick Braun captures the true essence of a David Benoit classic. James Taylor's "Don't Let Me be Lonely Tonight" is cushioned with an intoxicating live jazz treatment accompanied by a 22-piece string section. Benoit's musical selections reflect his attraction for a range of jazz-inflected styles, from contemporary pop to pure bebop, orchestral and hip-hop. On the cadenced "Jellybeans and Chocolate" titled with his daughter June in mind, he introduces up and coming smooth jazz musicians, Brian Culbertson (trombone) and Euge Groove (saxophone). Benoit also features the talents of his live band on the bossa nova inflected ode to Hawaii, "Swingin Waikiki" and "Quiet Room" a touching dedication to his late father.