Guitarist Jeff Golub's three previous CDs, released under the name Avenue Blue, have infused the smooth-jazz format with a much needed shot of soul. Out of the Blue ups the ante a notch by injecting more rock elements. "In... more »diana Moon" could be an Eric Clapton track sans vocals. Clapton's occasional drummer, Steve Ferrone, adds to the illusion and (with Tony Levin, bass and stick) to the real rhythm section that separates Golub's work from the lifeless programming of some of his "happy jazz" companions. "Manteca" recalls a Santana samba--but throughout the tune, it's more Jimi Hendrix than either Eric or Carlos. "Wanna Funk?" and "Groanin'" offer ripping solos more pleasing to guitar fans than to "wave" programmers. Golub's said that he wants "to play like Al Green sings," and it's his touch that makes him distinctive. If Out of the Blue's smooth, modern ballad arrangements result in him sounding at times closer to Luther Vandross than to the earthier Green, that's still a fine voice to reach for. --Michael Ross« less
Guitarist Jeff Golub's three previous CDs, released under the name Avenue Blue, have infused the smooth-jazz format with a much needed shot of soul. Out of the Blue ups the ante a notch by injecting more rock elements. "Indiana Moon" could be an Eric Clapton track sans vocals. Clapton's occasional drummer, Steve Ferrone, adds to the illusion and (with Tony Levin, bass and stick) to the real rhythm section that separates Golub's work from the lifeless programming of some of his "happy jazz" companions. "Manteca" recalls a Santana samba--but throughout the tune, it's more Jimi Hendrix than either Eric or Carlos. "Wanna Funk?" and "Groanin'" offer ripping solos more pleasing to guitar fans than to "wave" programmers. Golub's said that he wants "to play like Al Green sings," and it's his touch that makes him distinctive. If Out of the Blue's smooth, modern ballad arrangements result in him sounding at times closer to Luther Vandross than to the earthier Green, that's still a fine voice to reach for. --Michael Ross
2ncre8r | Santa Clara, California United States | 08/25/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"It was love at first listen. A dash of funk, a hint of rock and what may be the best effort yet at blending Jazz and Blues on an instrumental guitar CD. All of Jeff's cd's are good, but this is an all-timer here. It was THIS ONE that made me dash out to get the rest of his stuff. Relaxing, inspiring, technical, uplifting, very smooth, very tasty and simply put, one of the SWEETEST cd's I've ever heard, and I'm a hard to please S.O.B. Oh yeah - try putting this in the cd player at your next party and see how long it takes for people to start asking questions. NOT ONE PERSON I know has listened to this and not liked it - never experienced THAT before!!!"
Great Stuff.
timmmie | Detroit | 08/30/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I love this CD. Jeff Golub is a masterful guitar player and this disc perfectly showcases his versatility as both a player and a songwriter."Wanna Funk" starts the motion with great jazz and rock riffs thrown into beautiful horn arrangements that just groove. "Indiana Moon" has a graceful nostalgic feel set off by another fine arrangement for piano and guitar. Golub continues his exquisite guitar playing into "Manteca", a funky latin thing that doesn't let go as that warm guitar winds around the trumpet work. Each song grabs the listener with Golub's charged, flawless playing right through to "Groanin'", my favorite cut - a pure little jazz piece that puts you right into a smokey club for the evening."Out Of The Blue" captures Golub at his very best because it gives the listener an idea of what it is like to see him play live - there he shines bright when his love for the music and his sheer talent meld perfectly. Like I said, I just love this CD."
Well-constructed and articulate.
Bete Noire | Vancouver, Canada | 02/11/2000
(4 out of 5 stars)
"On his own,Jeff Golub shines with this diverse palette of songs encompassing light jazz,blues,rock,funk,and soul.His technique and skills are outstanding allowing for a very fluid interpretation of number of well-written and quite inspired musical moments."
Great smooth jazz with an r&b, rock n roll edge
Bete Noire | 07/30/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Another super smooth effort by the most underappreciated guitarist around. This CD showcases some of Golub's Billy Squier/Rod Stewart roots along with what we have come to expect (and love) from his Avenue Blue music. Unbelievable guitar work to go along with the great songs. Unfortunately, the best song, Latitude 19, isn't linked for your sample listening. A future classic as soon as Golub is "discovered" by those outside the smooth jazz genre."
Steppin' Out
dap54 | Springfield OH USA | 08/16/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I love this solo effort by Jeff Golub and am happy he "step out" on his own. On this release he blends a bit of gospel, contemporary jazz, R & B, with a dash of rock n roll! I can appreciate the fact that Jeff took a chance with this CD and got away from the "smooth jazz" sound that is so popular today. I love his earlier stuff, but this is a side of Jeff I love musically. I am happy he is going in a new direction musically. I plan on getting his next solo project, Dangerous Curves!"