Albums most popular in the United States●Smooth Jazz

Tracks: 25 Release date: 2003-04-22 $9.99

Tracks: 11 Release date: 2014-07-08 $9.99

Tracks: 11 Release date: 1989-11-21 $9.99

Comments

1. Very musical - A great collection of Kenny G tunes where he's able to stretch the "Smooth Jazz" paradigm a bit and show his chops. Listen for circular breathing on a couple of his solos. He's able to inhale thru his nose while he's blowing from his mouth. You'll wonder how long he can go without taking a breath.
2009-09-11

Tracks: 12 Release date: 2018-09-28 $5.99

Comments

1. same old same old - I have more of his creations than pretty much any other smooth Jazz artist but, I believe Paul is falling victim to a lack of creativity like his buddies Boney, Kenny, Brian, Chris, Dave, Eric, Chuck, Chieli, David, etc. All the guys from the late 's-early 's. Too bad for me because I love smooth Jazz. Regards.
2021-02-14

2. a Floridian - I have to take exception with the poster who said this album was essentially just recycled old music. Hardcastle does have a "signature sound" but he mixes things up just enough to keep it interesting----and to keep me coming back for more. I have quite a few of his albums and love them all . I didnt much care for 'Horse With No Name" (he had previously done a cover of Ventura Highway, which I also didn’t care for). To me, he is a blend or fusion of smooth jazz, with a dollop of new age sound mixed in. Great saxophone! If you;re already a fan, I dont think you'll be disappointed.
2019-03-27

3. You can do better - I was hoping for much more. It is the usual blind of old and new; more old than new. I feel like I am just rebuying old music I have already purchased. Also he need to get off the old disco beat and come up a few years to the now. He was right on it with Don't You Know. He went somewhere else with this.
2018-09-28

Tracks: 10 Release date: 2014-04-01 $9.99

Tracks: 25 Release date: 2013-07-23 $9.99

Tracks: 11 Release date: 2018-11-16 $10.99

Comments

1. SMOOTHJAZZ.COM REVIEW - Greg Carmichael, founding member of seminal guitar driven contemporary jazz ensemble Acoustic Alchemy, is a true survivor. He regrouped after the passing of band co-founder Nick Webb years ago, and now, with longtime partner Miles Gilderdale, creates some of the group’s most compelling and diverse music ever on /, the title reflecting on the band’s age. Recorded in the wake of Carmichael’s wife experiencing a life-threatening bout with meningitis and the loss of their long-time friend and manager, Steward Coxhead. The first studio album in seven years is a collection that darts by design, across a stylistic map from the assertive world-fusion fun on the opening track, “East of Babylon” to an exhilarating nod to fallen guitar hero, Chuck Loeb with “Carmen’s Man.” In addition, it includes a Steely Dan-esque pop/blues tribute to Walter Becker, “Blues For Mr. Mu,” while the album also brushes on Latin, classical and contemporary sonic realms, it also includes a full band collaboration “The Girl With A Plan,” a title inspired by global radio pioneer and decades long companion, Sandy Shore. With a fresh, new energy, their trademark melodic chemistry created by an alchemy of nylon and steel guitars shines brightly through.
2019-08-05

2. Beautiful, Complex, and Reflective - / is probably Acoustic Alchemy's most introspective album since 's "Positive Thinking." The band has shared that they have been through a lot of challenges over the past few years, hence why it's been so long since their last studio album. After a string of very heavily-produced albums including "American/English," "This Way," and "Roseland," this album highlights a more organic sound that feels slightly reminiscent of AA's earlier work, yet retains that eagerness to take chances and explore new ground that has characterized the latter half of their years. The opening track "East of Babylon" is of course meant to startle you, as if defiantly announcing the band's return to our earbuds. But it gives way to the toe-tapper "Carmen's Man." the band's dedication to Chuck Loeb. The standouts on this album include the hauntingly beautiful track "The Swallow's Tale," in which Greg's nylon-string guitar shines, and the acoustic duet in "Winter's End." Both tracks employ much more reserved use of the saxophone than has been present in AA's prior albums, which makes its presence all the more captivating and delightful when it does appear. And no review of this album would be complete without calling out "The Girl with a Plan" and its infectiously groovy bass riff, strutted by Gary Grainger. What a great way to cap off the band portion of this album; I'm sure this track will be established as one of Acoustic Alchemy's classics for years to come. There are so many layers to the writing of these pieces and the construction of this album that it continues to grow on me every time I listen to it. Kudos to Acoustic Alchemy for yet another exemplary addition to their extensive catalog of work.
2018-11-21

3. meh - My favorite band as well. Been a fan since the st CD years ago and have seen the guys live a dozen or more times. I felt the last CD (Roseland) was rather weak but had a few songs that hooked me right away - Marrakesh, One for Shorty. Upon listening to this one the st time nothing jumped out at me other than Greg's guitar solos. I wish Nick Webb could show up and write a few but that's not going to happen. Come on guys - years and this is it?
2018-11-16

4. Worth the wait - Well it took years but Acoustic Alchemy finally has a new album. “The Girl With a Plan” is classic Acoustic Alchemy, similar to “Ariane,” and I knew I would like it when I heard it live this past summer and it does not disappoint. “Winter’s End” will become an all time favorite of mine as well. This album also has two tribute songs “Blues for Mr. Mu” in honor of Walter Becker of Steely Dan and “Carmen’s Man” in honor of Chuck Loeb (there may be a third tribute as I have always suspected “The Wind of Change” is also a tribute). Both tributes do justice to their intended targets. This is a very easy album to listen to as background music or to relax, with the exception of “East of Babylon” which just seems out of place when listening to the album straight through. Overall this album was worth the wait and is probably my favorite since The Beautiful Game. Great work gentlemen and please don’t keep us waiting another years for more new music.
2018-11-16

Tracks: 10 Release date: 2016-04-22 $9.99

Tracks: 10 Release date: 2016-04-22 $9.99

Comments

1. Smooth Lives - BWB is a smooth jazz supergroup collaboration between guitarist Norman Brown, saxman Kirk Whalum & Trumpeter Rick Braun. The results are what you might expect: tight grooves and catchy melodies especially "Triple Dare & "Memphis Steppin'". What is impressive is the interplay on the CD. Everyone has enough room to shine and they sound like they are having fun. Solid effort & a fun listen.
2016-05-03

Tracks: 10 Release date: 2019-05-31 $9.99

Comments

1. Great Album - Cindy, congratulations on your work. This album is fantastic and i'm interested who produced it. It almost has a Paul Brown produced feel, or maybe even Brian Culberton influenced. I see it's Trippin N Rhythm, but not sure if that means there is a Paul Hardcastle influence. Either way, a great production and love your trumpet control. Keep up the great work! Scott C.
2019-05-31

Tracks: 10 Release date: 1997-08-11 $9.99

Tracks: 18 Release date: 2014-03-13 $10.99

Comments

1. A classic in the making - I was introduced to AA in the early s as a young adult. I’ve been the band’s fan since then. I’ve seen them from Dallas, Tx to Catalina Island. It’s great to have a live album that contains their classics as well as some of the more recent material. This live recording takes me back to the very first time I heard Jamaica Heartbeat. The music from AA will be forever engraved in the tapestry of my soul!!! Thanks for a superb live album. Maybe some day I’ll venture across the pond to the Pizza Express.
2018-03-21

2. Take me to the show! - This is vintage Acoustic Alchemy captured in one of their best venues, the basement of Pizza Express, Soho. The album is full of their best classics, rendered with all their well-honed structure and attention to detail, yet always flowing and full of style. The abundant amount of material even includes a sample of Miles Gilderdale's highly-original intros of the band, making the album completely true to its live feel. All the moods are here, from up-tempo, high-energy pieces to evocative and dreamy songs. This album is perfect for new listeners to appreciate this band's great range, and old fans will enjoy so many favorites in one LP. Three cheers to Greg and the boys, including Stewart and James.
2014-04-13

Tracks: 30 Release date: 2018-12-13 $9.99

Tracks: 11 Release date: 2014-04-29 $9.99

Tracks: 11 Release date: 2018-08-24 $9.99

Comments

1. AWESOME AND GREAT MUSIC - ITS REALLY WONDERFUL WHEN YOU CAN PURCHASE MUSIC THAT EVERY SONG MUSIC IS A HIT THIS IS THE ONE TO BUY SO DO YOURSELF A FAVOR AND PURCHASE THIS SOMETIMES WELL MOST OF THE TIME I GET TIRED OF THE BANG BANG MUSIC PIANO STUFF I ENJOY LISTENING TO THE PIANO BUT ITS REALLY NICE TO JUST LISTEN TO NICE SOFT MUSIC WITH LYRICS WITHOUT THE BANGING PIANO GOD BLESS YOU JOHNATHAN BUTLER
2021-10-21

Tracks: 12 Release date: 2022-02-25 $10.99

Comments

1. Whole Album Is Engaging and Soothing - This whole album is engaging and soothing. The quality of production and mixing of this album allows you to enjoy a lot of the creative nuances in each track. If you have a nice sound system in your home or car, you are really going to enjoy the midrange sounds and low end bass this album and it could arguably be his best album with the amount of high quality tracks. He is a master at his craft!
2022-02-26

2. MrPalmettojz - I purchased the single track of Wavelength & hopefully the remainder of this release will be just as nice. This is a really good piece. I have purchased nearly all of Paul’s music over the past years & it has rarely disappointed...good to hear more from his children especially the beautiful Maxine!
2022-02-09

Tracks: 11 Release date: 2019-06-28 $9.99

Tracks: 11 Release date: 2021-02-12 $9.99

Tracks: 10 Release date: 2020-09-04 $9.90

Tracks: 6 Release date: 2019-11-08 $9.99

Comments

1. Excellent - The project is quickly up and running with ‘Flying High’ that White’s fans will immediately identify with and much the same can be said of ‘Fun In The Sun’ that is sure to wow the crowds on his up coming appearances aboard the Smooth Jazz Cruise. More of that Peter White hallmark groove comes in the form of ‘Adventure’ and although ‘Island Getaway’ shimmers with a distinctive Caribbean vibe it is ‘Peaceful’ that is everything you would expect from this aptly named number. ‘Music for STARLUX Airlines’ comes in for landing with ‘Homeward Bound’ that features Peter’s daughter Charlotte on violin. It is a fitting conclusion to a recording that is both pleasing and surprising, a must for Peter White followers everywhere. -Smooth Jazz Therapy
2020-08-20

2. STARLUX Airlines - I've been a Peter White fan for years; but this album really special - I love listening to it from beginning to end - each extended song is most refreshing - I've been playing it every day since I bought it two weeks ago! It's really helped me relax during this horrible down time that the COVID- virus is causing everyone; I'd love to prescribe it to anyone and everyone - it is such an uplifting experience; thank you, Peter.
2020-04-02

Tracks: 11 Release date: 2018-04-27 $9.99

Tracks: 10 Release date: 2016-09-30 $9.99

Tracks: 11 Release date: 2017-06-30 $9.99

Tracks: 10 Release date: 2019-09-13 $9.99

Tracks: 12 Release date: 2018-10-26 $9.99

Tracks: 10 Release date: 1987-08-19 $9.99

Tracks: 15 Release date: 2006-08-09 $9.99

Comments

1. Smooth as butter - Diggin the electronics and all. The songs are the smoothest you'll hear around, but my only problem is the use of synthesized saxophone. It wouldn't have been that difficult to dub a sax player in instead of the unrealistic synth. I would have joined the project for free!! The use of fake horns bothers me a bit because it takes away from the smooth jazz quality, and it conforms to the pop music trend of synth-everything. Aside from this little gripe, definitely a great smooth jazz album.
2010-01-18

Tracks: 11 Release date: 2015-10-16 $9.99

Comments

1. Excellent - Prince's saxophonist (and Sax Pac member) Marcus Anderson returns at on Reverb Nation's Jazz Chart, following his highly kinetic live album, Marcus Anderson Xperience (M.A.X. Live in Concert), with And Coffee - a new studio album and his th solo album. And Coffee delivers that unique Marcus Anderson experience with some added flavor: guitarists Darnell “Showcase” Taylor and Matt Marshak, trumpeter Lin Roundtree, keyboardist Nicholas Cole and Midwest bassist Julian Vaughn. There’s a warmth and soulfulness to Marcus Anderson to be enjoyed when you sit back and sip on a cup of your favorite roast. “It's not overstating the matter to say that Marcus Anderson is a true godsend for a genre that needs a pick me up.” - Jonathan Widran / Jazziz
2020-09-03

2. And Coffee - "And Coffee" speaks for itself! Great while listening with a cup of "Passion Blend" coffee! Marcus Anderson is an extraordinary Saxophonist of all time. He's in a class by himself. This CD is a must add to all Jazz Fans. Looking forward to seeing him on March , @Bethesda Blues & Jazz!!! Going to be a great show!! Ms. Wanda aka JazzyLady
2016-02-23

Tracks: 11 Release date: 2020-03-20 $9.99

Comments

1. Soulful and compelling - Arguably England’s most successful smooth jazz export, Chris Standring has, with a succession of attention grabbing releases, carved out a unique place in the annals of contemporary jazz. Often soulful, always compelling and disposed from time to time to weave orchestral tapestries into his guitar driven melodies he is a performer who never disappoints. Consequently it should be no surprise that ‘Real Life’, even at this early stage, seems destined to become one of the best recordings of . -Smooth Jazz Therapy
2020-08-12

Tracks: 15 Release date: 2021-09-10 $9.99

Tracks: 10 Release date: 2016-07-15 $9.99

Tracks: 11 Release date: 2020-04-24 $9.99

Tracks: 10 Release date: 2018-02-09 $5.99

Tracks: 10 Release date: 2019-03-22 $9.99

Comments

1. This Joint Is Smoking - I just stumble onto this guy and I love what I fell into. Where have you been or should I say where have I been. Week, I’m glad I found him. The first cut I listen to was “Say You Will”. Then “Issa Party” and on to “Feels Like ”. Needlessly to say I made a purchase based on the first cut. He is the man. Can’t wait ti listen to the entire CD. BMW
2019-03-22

Tracks: 10 Release date: 2016-03-04 $5.99

Comments

1. Awesome! Sweet Sauce! - The title CD says it all! "Sonic Boom"!! Oh my! I already knew this was going to be a "Killer CD"! I have Darren Rahn's previous releases and other productions he has mastered. Darren has that unique "Sax Sound" that is always music to my ears. I had the privilege of meeting Darren Rahn on September , ; and like his music he is an awesome person. If you are familiar with his music be sure to add this CD to your collection! Congratulations Darren Rahn you have done it again!!! Ms. Wanda aka "JazzyLady"
2016-03-01

Tracks: 10 Release date: 2020-02-28 $9.99

Comments

1. In-Person - I just saw Adam Hawley (for the first time) at an event and he is such an amazing guitarist! OMG! AMAZING! You can tell he pours his heart and soul into his music. Then he brought up his beautiful wife Kat and they performed Rain. I was so done! (And I mean that in a very good way!) All the best to you and your awesome band!
2021-07-31

2. Attacking his electric guitar with fervent tones - Attacking his electric guitar with fervent tones amidst a shimmering jazz-pop backdrop reminiscent of guitar legends Wes Montgomery and George Benson, Hawley showcases deft fretwork on album opener “Tokyo Groove.” The cut benefits from David Mann’s crisp and punchy horn arrangements performed by the horn section the saxophonist formed with trumpeter Trevor Neumann. “Escape” includes contributions from a number of noteworthy horn players and next up is Lington who cranks up the soul power on “ and Counting.” “Saturday Morning” is a midtempo chill with sax accoutrements courtesy of Keith McKelley. Being serviced for playlist adds on February as the first single, “To The Top” features the firepower of breakout saxophonist Ryan. The guitarist teams with vocalist Kat Hawley (aka Adam’s wife) for an intimate, Latin-tinged take on the sultry pop hit “Senorita.” Hawley makes a break in the company of veteran trumpeter Braun on the album’s title track. “Sunday Swing” bounces to a funky, go-go-influenced beat that finds Hawley’s electric jazz guitar in a loquacious mood. “Can’t Stop” opens with the chorus, a potent hook that connects with muscle added by sax player Anderson. Seminal urban-jazz icon Najee blesses “Thinking of You” with dreamy flute that meshes sublimely with Hawley’s amorous guitar riffs and runs on the song co-written and co-produced by keyboardist Manning. Closing with a cover, Hawley’s expressive steel-stringed acoustic guitar serenade on “Rain” casts a transcendent spell. - Smooth Jazz Daily
2020-08-11

3. Hot Licks on a Icy Fat PRS - Excellent music production and choice of musicians for this set, Adam. Each one of your sessions continue to propel you to stellar prominence, I love that Guitar, if it is the one you are using on this recording it sounds great, Ive got an Archtop II PRS, you'd sound unbelievable playing it...
2020-03-05

Tracks: 14 Release date: 2020-02-07 $9.99

Tracks: 15 Release date: 2014-09-12 Get

Tracks: 11 Release date: 2018-06-08 $9.99

Tracks: 12 Release date: 2018-09-21 $9.99

Comments

1. Bob Baldwin playing in prime form and is easily recommended. - Bob Baldwin Presents Abbey Road And The Beatles Imagine if the Beatles, instead of being white Britishers who sing, were African-American instrumentalists who were born several decades later. Perhaps they would have sounded like Bob Baldwin on his recent tribute album Abbey Road and the Beatles. Bob Baldwin has been an important force on the contemporary music scene since his first recording years ago. A talented keyboardist who sometimes recalls Ramsey Lewis a little when he plays acoustic piano, he has his own soulful, melodic and accessible style. While often grouped into the “smooth jazz” idiom, Baldwin actually is a bit more adventurous, stretching out and taking some chances while creating a variety of infectious grooves. He has worked along the way with Regina Carter, Pieces of a Dream, Marion Meadows, Michal Urbaniak, Will Downing, and the late Grover Washington, Jr.among others but has mostly been a leader. In his busy recording career, Baldwin had previously recorded tributes to Michael Jackson, Thom Bell and Stevie Wonder. Now it is the Beatles’ turn. Abbey Road and the Beatles feature Bob Baldwin’s versions of Beatles songs plus his own “Abbey Road.” He plays most of the instruments (including a variety of keyboards and acoustic piano) while being assisted on some selections by bassist Dave Anderson, drummer Tony Lewis, and percussionist Cafe Da Silva. The opener, a funky version of “Come Together,” reminds listeners that this is rather than . The catchy rendition features Dennis Johnson on percussion and vibes. Although it is an instrumental, it is very easy to sing along. “(Mellow) Yellow Submarine” builds into a groove that is difficult to resist while, as is true throughout this set, the melody is kept close by. “And I Love Her” will be enjoyed by anyone who loves the original version. While most of this set is comprised of instrumentals, there are a few exceptions. “(Don’t Wanna Be) The Fool On The Hill” has CeCe Peniston contributing a laidback r&b vocal that gets more passionate as the piece evolves, climaxing in some stirring long notes over the closing vamp. Lori Williams’ singing on “My Love” is one of the highpoints of the set and she also joins in on Baldwin’s “Abbey Road,” a tribute to the legendary recording studio. While not a singer, Euge Groove, who plays soprano on “Imagine,” creates a speech-like solo and interacts joyfully with Baldwin. “Michelle (My Girl)” has Ragan Whiteside guesting on flute and blending in well with the keyboardist. The fine tribute also showcases Baldwin on two of the Beatles’ most beloved songs (“Yesterday” and “Eleanor Rigby”), and includes both instrumental and vocal versions of “Something (In the Way She Moves).” The music on Abbey Road and the Beatles is often easy-listening, always tasteful, and brings out the beauty in the familiar themes. It finds Bob Baldwin playing in prime form and is easily recommended. Written by Scott Yanow, jazz journalist/historian
2018-09-22

Tracks: 10 Release date: 2020-08-14 $9.99

Tracks: 10 Release date: 2019-07-26 $9.99

Tracks: 16 Release date: 2001-06-19 $9.99

Tracks: 13 Release date: 2023-03-17 $9.99

Tracks: 13 Release date: 2007-06-05 $11.99

Tracks: 12 Release date: 2005-02-01 $9.99

Tracks: 12 Release date: 2015-06-16 $9.99

Tracks: 13 Release date: 2020-05-29 $9.99

Comments

1. Marcus Anderson stands for variety, inventiveness and creativity. - Marcus Anderson stands for variety, inventiveness and creativity. Be it smooth jazz, funk or gospel music, the combination of coffee and music or the connection of music with comic characters, he always delivers new surprises. His new album Hero takes borrowings from the popular world of comic heroes as well as urban R&B. Due to the network he has built up in the meantime, Marcus can fall back on a large number of musical collages for the recording of his album. First to mention is keyboardist Nicholas Cole, with whom he has already worked on the albums "TLC" Tender Loving Christmas, Now, And Coffee, Limited Edition, and My Inspiration Vol.. A further producer/programmer is keyboardist Derrick Adams, who also worked with Marcus on various projects. Furthermore involved are Doc Jr., Michael Fields and Demetrice Everett. Now to name the other musicians in detail would go beyond the scope of this review. --Hans Bernd-Hullsman, smoothjazz.de
2020-08-11

2. My Sax Hero - Oh my! Sax Man Marcus Anderson has mastered another winning album! I’ve been following Marcus for many years now! He just keeps pumping out the ever so sweet music My favorite tracks , , , , & !! Just received my autographed copy in the mail today! Thank you Marcus for always producing such astounding music ! Congratulations to you on another Smooth Jazz Album! Smooth Jazz listeners be sure and add this to your music collection!!!! Ms. Wanda “JazzyLady”
2020-05-27

3. My Sax Hero - Now that I have Listened to Each Cut Twice I Give It The Thumbs Up So Inspired to keep listening over and over again. I have a couple of Favorites but then all are Awesome. Stand Outs “A Brighter Smile’ and “UNITY” A real Spiritual Side came out on this New CD. Music Is Magical
2020-05-18

4. The Sax Man - I’ve followed Marcus Anderson ever since he won the talent search challenge at the Annual Capital Jazz Festival in Columbia Maryland. That was many years ago, I got his autograph on his first CD when I first met him and I still have it til this date. I’ve been a member of his fan club ever since Then. I knew he was destined for Greatness and to God be the glory he is just that. I’ve seen him grow as an Artist, Musician, Song Writer and Producer. He is one of the most talented young jazz artist a live. I have every album he has every made. I can truly say he gets better and better. Any album he has ever made is a Must Buy!!!! Marcus Anderson is a Bad Dude, he is one the the Best and most Talented Saxophonist of our time. I can not wait to his new album Hero is released next month. I heard it and it is Awesome, like said he’s a Bad Dude!! You better get it, when it comes out next month period. I’m looking forward to seeing you in concert again. Hopefully soon, when this pandemic is over. God Bless!!
2020-04-19

Tracks: 10 Release date: 2014-07-07 $9.90

Comments

1. Fantastic Album! - This is a fantastic album! Tom Braxton has such a superb tone on the saxophone!! I like every track, but my favorites are "Make It With You" (featuring Peter White), "Sunrise in Malawi" (featuring Earl Klugh and written by Tom Braxton), "Nuevo!" (featuring Bob James and written by Braxton), and the title track, "The Next Chapter" (co-written by Braxton). What a wonderful collection of joyful music! Love it!
2014-08-08

Tracks: 15 Release date: 2018-09-14 $9.99