Russ Strathdee – Reflections – Russlind Music RGS001

Reviewed by: John Taylor Email: john.taylor@ca.ey.com

The problem with most ‘smooth jazz’ is that it’s just too smooth. Sure it’s pleasant enough, but with all the edges sanded off it’s really little more than ‘aural wallpaper,’ there but for the most part hardly noticeable.

Russell Strathdee calls his music "smooth jazz with an edge." No, it’s not an oxymoron; Strathdee manages the difficult task of soothing and challenging at the same time with music that’s both melodic and funky.

Strathdee’s a veteran who’s established a solid reputation as a sideman in both the blues and jazz worlds. Although he first entered a studio back in the early sixties, "Reflections," a collection of compositions he’s been accumulating for some fifteen years now, is his debut as leader. Strathdee wrote all the material, dividing it into two camps; seven of the disc’s twelve tracks were recorded with The "Jazz" Guys, with four featuring backing by The "Groove" Guys. The names won’t be familiar beyond local audiences, but all acquit themselves admirably throughout. And despite differing participants Strathdee has assembled a cohesive and coherent package with perfect pacing. Dreamy excursions are periodically enlivened by gentle jams that give both bands a chance to stretch out a bit.

In addition to Strathdee’s saxes – he covers the spectrum, from baritone to soprano with all stops between – the standard modern jazz touches are all present. Mark Rutherford ("Jazz") and Bob Federer ("Groove") contribute piano and the unmistakable sound of the Fender Rhodes, with Federer adding synthesized strings (with admirable taste and restraint, thankfully). On the "Jazz" tracks, Tim Moore complements Bruce Campbell’s drums with percussive flourishes that flesh out the sound and add a welcome rhythmic urgency. Wayne Buttery, guitarist on the "Groove" tracks, handles the disc’s only vocal, a smoky, sensual ballad custom-made for romance.

Indeed, "Reflections," like most smooth jazz, would make an ideal soundtrack for a romantic evening. That it stands up well to more attentive listening and remains musically interesting throughout is a credit to Strathdee’s skills as a composer, and to his ‘off the floor’ approach – rather than processing every imperfection out, Strathdee’s opted for an organic feel that gives the music room to breathe.

A fine outing, this one’s recommended!