Bob James : Sign of the Times :Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards

Bob James - Sign of the Times
Released 1981

1. Hypnotique
2. Steamin' Feeling', The
3. Enchanted Forest
4. Unicorn
5. Sign Of The Times
6. Love Power

All tracks have been digitally remastered. James joins forces with the hot early '80s composer Rod Temperton, and the results are surprisingly enjoyable. The two composers contribute equally to SIGN OF THE TIMES, each bringing three songs to the finished product. Temperton mainly adds a disco flavor, while James' contributions mellow things out in his distinctive fashion. The opposing styles complement one another and create a well-balanced recording. James, who also produced TIMES, continues to hone his fine conducting skills here. On each track, he's backed by his usual orchestral counterpoint of strings, brass, and percussive instrumentation. Patti Austin, Val Simpson, and Luther Vandross contribute great background vocals, lending a nice R&B element to the appropriately titled album. TIMES is a splendid mixture of jazz fusion and '80s pop.

"Bob James was a part of my early listening as I grew up with his early music constantly being played in the house by my parents. Bob James's albums '1' to '4' with their infectious grooves and fantastic use of all the instruments I love, like Rhodes, clav and wah wah guitar opened my ears to a sound that I have loved ever since. Constantly seeking out the retro style of that era that unfortunately has lost its way in today's sound, Bob James was an inspiration to many musicians and still is today with his songs like 'Tappan Zee', 'Nautilus' and' Take Me To The Mardi Gras' being used by many rap artists, allowing a younger generation to experience what was his unique style and sound. His early sound was very experimental and imaginative and it is great to know he is being honored with this award. Nice one Bob!" Stuart Wade of Down to the Bone

"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