Al Jarreau: Tomorrow Today

John Sharpe

Contributor

Recent articles (115 total)

Published: August 1, 2000

Smooth pop/jazz vocalists Al Jarreau hasn't released a new record in over six years and hasn't really had a big hit since 1981's Breakin' Away (Warner Bros.). Nevertheless, his voice remains as strong, quirky and flexible as ever, even if he long ago abandoned his jazz beginnings. Unfortunately, Jarreau's song choices now lean towards slick R&B, soft and airy ballads and contemporary pop.

Pity. He makes a rather unconvincing attempt at sounding funky on "In My Music" and then looks to cash in on the current Latin craze with the title track. Neither effort works. "God's Gift To The World," a duet with Vanessa Williams, will appeal only to all those Celine Dion fans out there who can't get their fill of vacuous "power ballads." The a cappella closer "Puddit (Put It in Your Pocket)," a la Bobby McFerrin, is technically impressive, yet fails to connect with the listener on an emotional level. And that's the problem with most of this CD—too slick, too smooth, too familiar.

Track Listing: Track #1; Track #2; Track #3.

Personnel: Musician Name #1: instrument; Musician Name #2: instrument; Musician Name #3: instrument.

Record Label: GRP Records
Style: Vocal