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Smooth jazz doesn't have to mean slick

Mama Cat | New York City | 02/21/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This early album by composer-guitarist Glenn Alexander proves that smooth jazz doesn't have to be slick, over-produced and mind-numbing. Instead we find here -- as with all of this artist's work -- intricate compositions and arrangements that, whenever they do venture toward edgyness, always carry with them an underground stream of sweetness. Rather than smooth jazz, perhaps Alexander's music would be better described as gentle, intelligent jazz. One of the most striking things about "Glenn Alexander" is his skillful use of trumpet powerhouse Randy Brecker, who did not come fully into his own until some years after this recording was produced. Fans of Brecker's will love his soulful playing on the cuts "Someone" and "Those Closest." Scott Healy, now the keyboardist for the Conan O'Brien band, provides the piano and synth support and composed two of the cuts. Of course fans of Glenn Alexander's work will want this album. It's especially gratifying to hear a recording by an artist at an early stage in his career, and then to realize how much of what he's doing today could be heard even then. It serves as a vivid reminder that meaningful music begins and ends with the authentic expression of the artist's self."

In the path of Allan Holdsworth, comes Glenn Alexander.

moss1@epix.net | Eastern United States | 11/21/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"In the path of Allan Holdsworth comes Glenn Alexander -- a guitarist's guitarist. From the smooth ride through Westfield on Glenn's guitar to the artful orchestration of the later tracks, this album provides a relaxing journey through a masterly Jazz milieu. True jazz guitar fans will do themselves a tremendous favor by checking this out."