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Velvet Vibe

Ronny Smith

Label: Pacific Coast Jazz
Released: 2026
Duration: 39:42
Views: 301

Tracks

Familiar Faces; Breeze; Velvet Vibe; Feel the Groove; Night Wave; Heaven's Angel; Late Train Home; Quiet Moments; Horizon Lights; Once Upon a Dream.

Personnel

Additional Personnel / Information

Eric Tulissio: drums (1,-3, 7, 8); Jose Juvinao: bass (2-6, 9, 10); Ronnie Smith: bass, keyboards drums, guitar, programming (1-10); Dennis Fortune: keyboards (2, 6, 7); Heartbeat Brass Band: horns (3, 5); Dan Pugach: drums (4); Larry Aberman: drums (5); Kim Pereira: drums (6); Ibukun Onapajo: soprano vocals (6); Damilola Adika: alto vocals (6); Kelechi Kanu: tenor vocals (6); Joshua Adebowale: vocal director (6); Asaf Finkelstein: piano (9, 10).

Album Description

Every album begins with an idea. Velvet Vibe began with a desire to create music that speaks through melody, groove, and genuine emotional expression. Rather than following musical trends or relying on technical display, the album was shaped by a simple philosophy: write songs that connect with listeners, invite repeated listening, and allow each performance to tell its own story.

Comprising ten original contemporary jazz compositions, Velvet Vibe reflects the musical influences that have shaped Ronny Smith's artistic voice throughout his career. Rooted in contemporary jazz and enriched by elements of soul, funk, blues, gospel, and Brazilian music, the album blends sophisticated musicianship with memorable melodies and expressive guitar performances. While each composition has its own identity, together they form a unified musical journey defined by warmth, balance, and emotional depth.

The title, Velvet Vibe, captures both the sound and the spirit of the music. Velvet represents warmth, richness, and elegance, while Vibe reflects rhythm, feel, and the shared energy between musicians and listeners. Together, they describe an atmosphere that is inviting, soulful, and timeless—music designed to create a lasting emotional connection rather than simply fill the silence.

Throughout the recording process, the focus remained on serving the music. Every arrangement, improvisation, and production decision was guided by the belief that the strongest performances are those that communicate honestly and naturally. The guitar remains the album's central voice, supported by musicians whose performances bring depth, texture, and spontaneity to every composition.

More than a collection of songs, Velvet Vibe represents a milestone in Ronny Smith's artistic journey. It reflects decades of musical experience while embracing a continued commitment to growth, creativity, and craftsmanship. The result is an album that honors the traditions of contemporary jazz while expressing a personal musical voice—one built on melody, groove, authenticity, and the enduring power of instrumental storytelling.

"My hope is that every listener discovers something different in Velvet Vibe—a melody that stays with them, a groove that moves them, or a moment that simply invites them to pause, listen, and return again."

Album uploaded by Ronny Smith