Review: Rippingtons featuring Russ Freeman - Modern Art - Peak Records
 March 10, 2009 - Media is changing at unparalleled speeds and we’ve all been affected. We listen differently now, we buy online and we don’t always wait for the concert. Touring costs are astronomical and bands are breaking up. The ones that stay together, our core artists, have sometimes not been able to record new material that sells enough to warrant a relationship with their record labels. As a former radio programmer and professional sound and lighting tech I have predicted many band implosions in spite of the great talent.
That brings us to the Rippingtons. When you think of Contemporary Jazz, who in the format has lasted as long and defied the odds of actually getting better?
‘Modern Art’ is their 17th studio release and first since 2005. Russ Freeman and the boys have returned with the familiar trademark that first came to fruition over 20 years ago. It’s still as riveting and fresh and that’s a tough gig since 20 years in band years is like 100 in real time. Few groups can keep their edge over time but these guys seemed to make it a prerequisite for marching on. The ‘Ripps’ have had lots of personnel changes over the years but thanks to cornerstone, Russ Freeman and his insane work ethic of just creating tunes with heart, the band is more than just relevant, it’s essential Contemporary Jazz.
The CD opens with the title track, featuring tasty guitar and sax interplay between Freeman and Jeff Kashiwa for a result that is another toe tapping new standard for the group and its fans. One of my favorites, ‘Paris Groove,’ highlights Freeman’s acoustic guitar and a wonderful Parisian like vibe from the keyboard/accordion of Bill Heller. It takes you through the streets of Paris and the only thing missing is your favorite bottle of wine and the view.
“Black Book” serves as another solid Rippingtons’ classic with haunting groove in tow. Freeman’s guitar work is subtle yet forceful and weaves its way through some nice keyboard fills.
‘I Still Believe’ has a soulful gospel feel, Kashiwa’s heartfelt sax leads into almost choir like playing from the band. For anyone lamenting the loss of “spirit” in the Smooth Jazz format, this should satisfy the palette.
My favourite track, ‘Love Story,’ features Rick Braun on trumpet, it’s as sensual as it is groovy and the interplay between Braun and Freeman brings to mind the old saying, “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” I can’t fully describe what happens when you get these two guys in the same room but I love the way it makes me feel. Great musical partnership!
The Rippingtons are style, substance and true innovators of the Contemporary Music scene and with “Modern Art” they have created another artful landscape for our ears. – by Paul Ericson |
March 5, 2010 – Smooth Jazz has gone dark in Sacramento. Entercom Communications, owners of Smooth Jazz KSSJ 94.7 FM pulled the plug on the station this week. 
February 27, 2010 – Smooth Jazz Now wants to thank you for listening. Starting Monday March 1st listen for your name andyou could win some of the biggest albums in Smooth Jazz history
February 23, 2010 - French Smooth Jazz guitar sensation Emmanuel Abitebol, more known as U-NAM, came to fame with his widely acclaimed somophore album ‘Back from the 80’s’ released in 2007. 
February 23, 2010 – The new Sade album is kicking some serious butt on the charts. After a 10 year break the sultry singer is back on top of the Billboard Album Charts with “Soldier of Love.” It sold over 500 thousand in its first week of release. 
February 22, 2010 – The annual Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards ballot count ending last Friday (Feb. 19) reflects a dramatic increase in voter interest. Awards co-chair, Mary Kirk, of Wave 94.7FM says, “Thank you to the huge number of fans from all over the world who took time to send in their ballots.” 
February 19 - 2010 - Smooth Jazz female sax players are not numerous, but there is a collection of talented performers such as Candy Dulfer, Jessy J and Paula Atherton among others. Mrs. Atherton does not only perform sax and other horn instruments, she is also a consummate singer.