Bob James : Ivory Coast :Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards

Bob James - Ivory Coast
Released 1988

1. Ashanti
2. Rosalie
3. Yogi's Dream
4. Adult Situations
5. Orpheus
6. Moodstar

Bob James arranged and produced this 1988 recording, and composed five of the six slow-burning smooth groove tracks. The highlight of the recording, however, is the impressive solo work by saxophonist Kirk Whalum on a non-James composition, "Rosalie." Whalum is also prominently featured on the energetic "Yogi's Dream." Flautist Alexander Zonjic is also noteworthy on several tracks, including the opener "Ashanti," where James also puts his best foot forward. While not a career best, James still delivers the goods on this CD, demonstrating some fancy fingerwork on the prominent piano tracks while keeping the electronic keyboards primarily in the background. Richly textured pieces and excellent solos from Whalum, Zonjic and James himself make this recording notable among others of the same period.

"The subtleties that made Bob James the commercial success he was in the late 70's through the late 80's were in stark contrast to the less than compliant performer he chose to be when he performed live. I will never forget being totally blown away by the phenomenal musicianship and skill he showed during some of his live performances, which clearly demonstrated that the commercialism he exuded on recordings, was a conscious choice of restraint, maturity in playing, and music business savvy. Kudos Mr. James!"- Everette Harp

"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