Rick Braun: can you feel it

Celebrated trumpeter Rick Braun's release can you feel it is aptly titled. The veteran purveyor of the smooth jazz sound does not disappoint on his latest offering. Some of Braun's musical friends on this eleven song collection include: Brian Culbertson-piano, Euge Goove-tenor sax, Jeff Lorber-keyboards and guitar, Dave Koz-tenor sax, and Nate Phillips-bass.

In typical Braun fashion, the entire record production is clean and at a high standard. The title and first track "Feel It" has a breezy summer's day sensitivity to it that should put you in a relaxed state of mind. On the second song "Back To Back," the dependable band led by Braun, continues to roll along in the groove established by the opening track.

The popular trumpeter provides a pleasant surprise with Al Green's 1974 gospel flavored hit "Take Me To The River." This is the sole vocal track presented here with a cool Braun intro and Elliot Yamin's bouncy interpretation of this soul/gospel classic. (Bryan Ferry, Levon Helm, Talking Heads and Foghat also recorded the song.)

The Braun/Harner composition "Get Up And Dance" is another fine example of Braun's signature sound. The horns are clear with the trumpet and saxophone working competently together.

"Another Kind Of Blue" is a mellow ballad delivered with Braun's lonely flugelhorn, giving the song a nice melancholy tinge. "Radar" is approached with the easy alacrity that Braun has consistently demonstrated throughout his long career. "Mallorca," "Delta," "Silk," and "The Dream" help contribute to the CD's overall ambience.

The album closes strongly with the Braun/Phillips/Gonzalez song "Dr. Funkenstein." In addition to the horns, the very capable rhythm section gets to stretch out. Bass and drums are prominent on the finale that actually rocks. This stand out tune is a great way to conclude Braun's latest record.

Successful songwriter/multi instrumentalist Rick Braun has recorded and produced another polished disc to add to your contemporary jazz collection. Braun's can you feel it will appeal to his loyal fans and supporters of the smooth jazz genre.