Search - Kirk Whalum :: Into My Soul

Still "smooth jazz," but dig that twist of soul!

William Merrill | San Antonio, TX United States | 07/30/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is Kirk's tribute to Memphis Soul. He does it with an obvious love for the music, and his homage is aided by various Memphis cats including legendary producer David Porter, singer Wendy Moten, and drummer Blair Cuningham. There are also various guest stars such as Maurice White of EW&F and Isaac Hayes of South Park. (ha!) The real star, though, is Mr. Whalum's horn. He swings soulfully on such hot tracks as the uplifting "Me Me & You" and a lively take on "Hold On I'm Coming." The recording quality is excellent, allowing the sax notes on "Club Paradise" to take on a quality almost like a woman's voice.Credit must also be given to Kirk's superb band, especially Alex Al's vivid bass playing and John Stoddart on keyboards. They provide the perfect backdrop for the sax. By the way, the "bonus track" on Into My Soul is a delightful two-minute piece of bossa-nova jazz called "Postlude In B Major." It's a fitting wrap-up to a thoroughly enjoyable jazz album. The enhanced CD content is minor but fun -- some Instant Messenger images from the CD booklet, and a slideshow with narration by Kirk about the making of the CD."

Another Great Album

Justin Weaver | King of Prussia, PA United States | 07/31/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"As his soulful, smooth and cool sound has expressed itself very well on his other albums, Kirk had done it again. He really put the great feel of Memphis Jazz into the songs on this record. Tracks one and three are my favs but I definately think the whole CD was worth it. Along with Kirk, he has special guests such as BWB(his guests Rick Braun and Norman Brown), his bro. Kevin and others which take this CD to the top. As a Sax player myself I have never heard a greater sound and style than Kirk. Enjoy this album because I know I am!!!!!!"

That Cool Memphis Groove

G. Bates | Rockford, IL USA | 07/24/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The title is an indication of where this music will warm you up. As Kirk indicates in his linar notes, this CD is his impressions and interprettions of the Memphis brand of music guided by the producing talents of David Porter (Stax Records and Isaac Hayes). Think of this CD and every tune and Smooth Jazz with Memphis Soul. Kirk is joined by a number of fine musicians including his partners from BWB, Norman Brown (2003 Grammy award winner for best pop instrumental and a competitor of Kirk in that category) and Rick Braun. Isaac hayes and Maurice White lend their voices on 2 of the tracks. Enjoy this CD. I sure have!!!!!!"