Knowing that George Duke has performed with such musicians as Cannonball Adderly, Frank Zappa, Joe Williams and Jean-Luc Ponty says more about the pianist’s interests and acumen than any bio sheet. He also has filled the role of producer for top-sellers by Smokey Robinson, Najee, Barry Manilow, Anita Baker and the Pointer Sisters.
Duke’s 30th solo album is a definitive collage of powerful and mystic moods. For this project, Duke tapped musicians including Doc Powell, Rachelle Ferrell, Dori Caymmi, Paulinho De Costa, Gerald Albright, Dianne Reeves, George Howard and Everette Harp. The content is musically strong and emotionally stirring, richly textured and reflective in nature, but never ponderous. The 16 tracks deliver a diverse mix of soothing love songs, funky fun, soulful pleadings and thoughtful messages.