The Native Language debut from the former Rippington's saxophonist that brings together a solid cast of Smooth Jazz artists: Marc Antoine, Brian Bromberg, Russell Ferrante, Ricky Lawson, Jeff Lorber Will Kennedy, Steve Ol... more »iver and Steve Reid. The albums' producers include Brian Bromberg, Jeff Lorber, Dave Kochanski and Jeff Kashiwa.« less
The Native Language debut from the former Rippington's saxophonist that brings together a solid cast of Smooth Jazz artists: Marc Antoine, Brian Bromberg, Russell Ferrante, Ricky Lawson, Jeff Lorber Will Kennedy, Steve Oliver and Steve Reid. The albums' producers include Brian Bromberg, Jeff Lorber, Dave Kochanski and Jeff Kashiwa.
Willie L. Martin Jr | Back in the States Baby! | 08/06/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"A couple of years ago, I vaguely recall scanning an insert from one of the Rippington's CD. At that time, I wanted to know who the sax player was. "Jeff Kashiwa" was the name that was posted on the insert. I was thinking, "This guy is an awesome sax player without a doubt!" In 1999, (If I'm not mistaken)the rumor mill was that he was leaving the Rippingtons to pursue a solo project. The year is now 2001, I hear this song on the radio entitled, "Around the world." I was totally surprised to learn that the artist was indeed Jeff Kashiwa. Most artist when embarking on solo projects will retain the style and sound of their former group. Not so with Jeff Kashiwa. Awesome new sound from a fantastic sax player! Normally when you purchase a CD, you purchase it for the sake of one song. I'd venture to say that out of the 12 tracks listed on this CD, you're going to like listening to all 12 tracks! Speaking of tracks, these are the ones to be on the look for, "Around the world", "Another Door Opens," "Hyde Park", and the "Power of Midnight." "Around the world" is one of my favorites! William Kenney is kicking out some wicked beats on the drum on this particular track! Let's not forget the other artist that are on this CD like Dave Kochanski! Star studded lineup is all I can say. Dude or dudette, get off your butt (or stay on your butt and order from the web) and get this CD! :)"
One of those rare CD's when every cut is as good as the next
Michael Romeo | Palmer, Alaska United States | 09/25/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"A delightful CD that doesnt disappoint.This is one of those rare CD's that comes along once in a great while, when evey cut is terrific. What led me to this artist was the cut, " Hyde Park " (the "ah, oooh" song). This is the cut that has been playing on the smooth Jazz stations. However, once you have enjoyed listenly to that cut, there are 10 more that are just as good. His cut (Because of You) track, 3 is one of the most romantic sax songs I have heard in a while and should be his next release. Smooth melodic melodies and recurring themes makes this CD a must for your collection. Jeff Kashiwa's sax style is all his own but at times he sounds simaliar to Andy Snitzer and Steve Cole. Jeff has surrounded himself with a great band and the added bonus on this CD is Marc Antoine, Jeff Lorber and Brian Bromberg. Add this one to your collection and Im sure, Another Door will open for you"
No surprise behind this door
Tom | VA | 07/25/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I've been a long time follower of the Rippingtons and a fan of Jeff Kashiwa when he was with the Ripp's. Now that he is solo, I am glad to see he has picked up where he left off. This album is great. Jeff really shines! He tops as my favorite Sax artist. Every track on this CD is a joy to listen to. Any fan of the Rippington's will Love this CD. I miss his sax with the Rippington's, but here I get to enjoy it again. I hope this is a start of a very successful solo career."
Breath of Rarefied Air
Daniel Rutkowski | Wernersville, PA USA | 01/24/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is an album I did not pick for myself. It was a gift, and a fine one at that! Before listening to this album in total, the only Jeff Kashiwa I had "heard" was the song Hyde Park (the "ah, oooh" song). When I listened to this whole CD through, I soon discovered sax playing that sounded oh so familiar but not because it was a copy of someone. I quickly learned that Jeff had been with the Rippingtons prior to venturing out on his solo career, and while I never owned a Rippingtons album, I had "heard" them. Jeff's style is so memorable because he has a beautiful touch on the sax -- light, quick and his tone is airy. He really engages you in his playing.
Every Now & Then -- an exquisitely beautiful tune where Melvin Davis on bass and Ricky Lawson on drums lay down a rhythm that is so cool and two Jeffs --Kashiwa and guest Jeff Lorber-- let fly on top. This is one of the best smooth jazz tunes I know of. Thank you, Jeff, for including this song.
The Power of Midnight -- Melvin Davis swings on this song with an unstoppable bass line while Jeff weaves his magic on soprano sax. You never want this song to ever end. It will coax you right out of any doldrums you find yourself in; in other words, smile.
Around the World -- a gutsy number where Jeff is always in control of his axe. You will realize the chemistry between Kashiwa, Davis and Lawson on this CD is awesome.
Another Door Opens -- the title track and longest song on this album. Man...I was made for jazz, and this tune has an uplifting feel for me. It has an infectious lilt with some really smooth keyboards by Kashiwa and nice acoustic piano work by Russell Ferrante and Will Kennedy on drums.
Finish it up with Best of Times, the last track on the CD. Hope you enjoy the ride. Best to you."