Nightlife

This urban-flavored smooth jazz quartet has been recording since the mid-'90s, but seems to have fallen under the mainstream radar. The music is certainly pleasant, in the pocket, and radio-friendly, but perhaps the reason the foursome haven't hit it bigger is because they don't all play on their own tracks -- at least according to the liner notes. It'd be nice to know that the tasty retro-soul keyboard solo on the silky opening track, "Three's Company," was played by a group member, or at least that the guitar was by member Richard Nance. But no, the track features Jeff Lorber and Chris Camozzi, who also produced a few tracks. And there's a sax on the tune, but no credit for one. A.D. Burrise does play bass keyboards on the title track, but the memorable acoustic guitar melody is guested by track producer Ray Obiedo. "Shakin' Not Stirred" is pleasant grooving all the way, but again, it's guest Camozzi who carries the tune. And "Moon Over Maui" is all about guest saxman Ron Moton. Burrise is advertised as a vocalist, but he leaves the best vocal on the album to Gerald McCauley. The laid-back "Anna" features two of the band's players (including Guy Montoya on percussion), but again is a sax tune. Either someone printed the credits wrong or Analysis is a phantom group. Still, it's a nice listen if you're into mainstream smooth jazz. How can it not be with the aforementioned talent, plus Rob Mullins and Gerald Albright (on flute this time)? Hmm....