Bob James : Grand Piano Canyon :Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards

Bob James - Grand Piano Canyon
Released 1990

1. Bare Bones
2. Restoration
3. Wings For Sarah (tribute to Sarah Vaughan)
4. Svengali
5. World's Apart
6. Stop That
7. Xraxse
8. Just Listen
9. Far From Turtle

Personnel: Bob James (piano, synthesizer); Kirk Whalum (soprano & tenor saxophones), Chris Hunter (alto saxophone); Andy Snitzer (tenor saxophone); Roger Rosenberg (baritone saxophone); Jon Faddis, Randy Brecker (trumpet); Jim Pugh (trombone); Lee Ritenour (guitar, guitar synthesizer); Eric Gale, Dean Brown (guitar); Gary King, Nathan East (bass); Paulinho Da Costa (percussion); Abraham Laboriel (bass); Max Risenhoover, Harvey Mason (drums); Leonard "Doc" Gibbs (percussion). Recorded at Ocean Way Studios in Hollywood; Clinton Studios in New York City; Remidi Studio in Ardsley-on-Hudson, N.Y. On 1990's GRAND PIANO CANYON, Bob James and his cohorts do an excellent job of delivering exactly what fans expect. The likes of Nathan East, Harvey Mason, Jon Faddis, Randy Brecker, saxophonists Andy Snitzer and Kirk Whalum, Lee Ritenour, and Eric Gale provide subtle instrumental backup on these nine jazzy piano tracks. CANYON blends straight-ahead jazz with a bit of contemporary jazz for a well rounded and relaxing recording. The catchy radio hit "Restoration" is a highlight. "Bare Bones" provides the album with its most jamming moment, while Ritenour's "Just Listen" and the lovely "Far from Turtle" add a soft, romantic touch. James' beautiful playing is featured throughout, though the middle of the album does drag slightly. But if you're looking for a fine late-night listen, GRAND PIANO CANYON should hit the mark.

"Bob, you have been a great inspiration for me over the years, I admire all the work you have done with Fourplay and with some of my favorite guitarists like Carlton, Ritenour and Klugh. Please continue on creating that "smooth sound." Congratulations!" - Robert Michaels

"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