Bob James : Fourplay - Journey :Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards

Bob James & Fourplay - Journey
Released 2004

1. Fields Of Gold
2. Play Around It
3. From Day One
4. Journey
5. Rozil
6. Cool Train
7. Avalabop
8. Firehouse Chill, The
9. Departure
10. 147 4th St.

Fourplay: Larry Carlton (guitar); Bob James (keyboards); Nathan East (bass guitar); Harvey Mason (drums). Fourplay is the ultimate smooth-jazz outfit. Made up of four of the finest crossover artists, this group presents a cohesive mix of modern jazz and instrumental pop. Except for the opening track, "Fields of Gold," written by Sting, JOURNEY is made up of all original material; each player contributes tunes, and bassist Nathan East sings on about half the album. Tracks such as "From Day One," "Departure," and "Avalabop" sound similar to Pat Metheny's early ECM releases. However, these pieces are decidedly sweeter than Metheny's repertoire. "147 4th Street" features some bold playing from Larry Carlton (known for his work with Steely Dan). The acclaimed guitarist also plays a great bluesy solo on his own composition "Cool Train." However, this album is generally made up of carefully restrained improvisations. The smartly composed, mellow compositions are left to speak for themselves on this disc of warm and breezy music.

"I can't think of a more deserving reciept of the "George Benson Lifetime Achivement Award" than Bob James. He was a great trendetter in the 1970'swith CTI records and he's still the best. Congratulations Bob and we'll see you on April the 7th." - Bob Farrow - Host-The Smooth Jazz Breakfast - Wave 94.7fm, Hamilton-Toronto

"Bob James never ceases to amaze me. When I first met him he was sitting in front of a piano not looking at all like a pianist, so I didn't expect very much from him. Especially since he was about to accompany one of the greatest singers of our time, Ms. Sarah Vaughn, but when his hands touched that piano his brilliance became clearly evident. His musicianship reflected both his jazz and classical experience. He enhanced her performances beautifully. I later found him to be an incredible arranger who had a flair for pop music mixed with jazz and R&B. His recordings as a stable mate on CTI Records reflected a very listenable modern approach to jazz. As a producer he has created records that started a trend that transcends its time. As a member of the group Fourplay, Bob has once again shown his unlimited ability to adapt to any musical environment.

It is an honour to recognize Bob James as the first recipient of the George
Benson Lifetime Achievement Award." - George Benson