Andre Delano: Full Circle

Saxophonist Andre Delano Roberson has played with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Maxwell, and Jeff Lorber, and he steps out as a leader on his debut album Full Circle (7th Note). Roberson, who goes simply by Andre Delano, has a sound that tips its hat to David Sanborn, and Full Circle is filled with enjoyable, if not especially groundbreaking, tunes that will surely appeal to smooth-jazz fans. Delano is simultaneously sinuous and funky on the party tune “Funkborne,” and he gives “Foot Steps” a bit of a dark edge. Keyboardist Kevin Toney makes a guest appearance on “Why Not,” with his delicate piano accompaniment and shimmering Rhodes provide contrast to Delano’s snappy sax, while the catchy but not particularly special “Face Off” is enhanced by a nice solo by guitarist Dwight Sills. Delano clearly has a lot to offer musically, but the tracks on Full Circle tend to be safe, standard smooth-jazz fare. Delano would benefit from more adventurous material that would better showcase his naturally engaging style.

Originally Published April 1, 2005