Search - Gregg Karukas :: Gk

Exciting and tasteful.

jazzias | 04/05/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is the 11th solo album from the great smooth jazz keyboardist/pianist.

Jeff Karukas began the 2000's riding high on the success of his critically-acclaimed album and #1 radio hit "Nightshift", its follow-up release "Heatwave" and a Best Keyboardist nomination at the National Smooth Jazz Awards.

In 1987 Gregg released his first solo album, The Nightowl, which quickly became a Quiet Storm radio staple.

His string of Top 5 Radio hits includes : "Nightshift", "Girl in the Red Dress" (# 4 from "Looking Up"), the 1993 Summerhouse, "Key Witness" (1991), "Severna Park" from Sound Of Emotion, and his breakout 1998 major label debut Blue Touch.

There are eleven original tracks of mellow instrumental Jazz that are highly polished and accomplished.

It numbers a fantastic bunch of jazz guests such as Rick Braun, Paul Brown, Luis Conte, Russ Freeman, Jessy J., Pat Kelley, Michael O' Neil, Michael Paulo and Ricardo Silveira.

Subtle grooves give Gregg's fine piano solos a free and breezy feel. Highlights are the funkier "Manhattan" and the simmering "Napa Road".

Try also the shuffling Latin tinged tracks "Floating in Bahia" and "Jamba Samba".

This contemporary Smooth Jazz set will appeal not only to Smooth Jazz aficionados, but will also appeal to Soul fans as the slower cut - of which my favourire is the gorgeous "Souk Kisses".

Gregg Karucas is a class act and this will be one of the strongest Smooth Jazz album this year.

Gregg's warmth and charm along with a fabulous styling technique makes the listener feel immediately fulfilled while listening to these original compositions. I listen to it in my car. That's a 4 star recommendation right there!

The album debuts at # 6 of Billboard Top Conpemporary Jazz chart.

Issue date. 2009-04-18



Nightshift

Looking Up"

A milestone album!

Hiram Gomez Pardo | Valencia, Venezuela | 04/15/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Gregg Karukas has made his most personal and possibly his most ambitious and outstandingly project until this date.



Literally there isn't a minor track all the way through. The CD initiates with a snapping theme "Manhattan", then comes my favorite song "Daylight", "Jamba Samba" is possibly the most exciting and optimistic theme of the album. There are also soft inspirational ballads such as "Soul kisses" and "Believe in me."



Karukas has recorded the most emblematic and top smooth jazz album of the year. And I make this personal statement being aware we are just in the first third stage of the year.



Inspiring, awesome and fantastic album that well deserves from you all the efforts in order to acquire it.



A true jewel of the crown in your personal collection.

"

Gregg Has Done It Again! A Very Nice CD!!!

J. Young | King of Prussia Pa. | 04/02/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is awesome! I have been following Gregg Karukas for years and he never lets you down. Be sure to purchase this CD as every cut is very nice.... Do not miss out on this one! We love you Gregg!"