Record Reviews

AL JARREAU ~ MY OLD FRIEND: CELEBRATING GEORGE DUKE CONCORD 888072353572 (Barcode: 888072353572) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Pop Fusion Recorded: 2014 Released: 2014 This is the last studio album by American Jazz vocalist / songwriter Al JarreauFind albums by this artist, dedicated to his musical friend, the great keyboardist / composer George DukeFind albums by this artist, who died tragically prematurely in 2013. Jarreau is supported by a stellar team of top American instrumentalists, which includes bassists Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist and Marcus MillerFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Patrice RushenFind albums by this artist and many others and several guest vocalists, including Dianne ReevesFind albums by this artist and Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks, nine of which have music composed by Duke and the title tracks was composed by Jarreau. Duke plays keyboards on one track. The music is absolutely lovely, as usual in the case of Jarreau’s outings, a perfect merger of Rhythm And Blues, Soul and Jazz, brilliantly performed by the participating musicians and guest vocalists, crowned by the irresistible vocal performances by Jarreau himself. Duke was a phenomenal weaver of great melodies, which always characterized his output, regardless of the different idioms he took part in, and this album is a great reminder of his many talents. Overall, this is a delightful vocal album, which despite its strong Pop tendencies, offers a sophisticated and elegant listening experience, which is accessible to a wide range of music loving audience. Jarreau was a unique Artist, who never made any compromises as far as his music was concerned. Sadly, this was destined to be his last recording project, which serves as a proper testament of his superb talent.

Updated: 24/06/2025Posted: 24/06/2025

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