Search - Michael Manson :: Up Front

Contemporary jazz doesn't get any better than this.

tois | France | 01/31/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"With this very special project, Michael Manson creates a fresh and innovative sound that can be attributed to only himself, to his own inspired production skills and wonderful playing throughout.

Scanning the song titles, it's easy to have a somewhat corny feel of the record, but on listening, this changes completely.

One can feel Michael Manson's maturity on the album.

"...he has moved persistently from strength to strength, one association leading inevitably to another in a career that has brought him front and center with the most esteemed names in jazz, gospel, R&B, pop and rock..".-Echo Smooth Jazz

The single "Coming Right At Ya" - which has made the Top Contemporary Chazz Chart - is a big highlight, with its refreshing bassline entwined beautifully with a haunting melody.

The entire album has a surprising amount of laid back and smoky grooves, best demonstrated on the album's focal points "Bring It On" and "Up Front".

Combined with a range of instruments and soothing, gentle vocals, it makes a delight to listen to.

It's a fertile enough set dispaying Michael's remarkable dexterity and command of the 5-string and piccolo basses and hanging heavy with handsome sax (from Kirk Whalum, Steve Cole and Najee) and ripe beats.

Guest artists on this accomplished CD include : Ray Fuller, Norman Brown, Tom Braxton, Michael White,Lenny Castro, Steve Cole, George Duke, Kirk Whalum, Rick Braun, Jeff Lorber, Najee and Paul Jackson Jr.

Contemporary jazz doesn't get any better than this.



Track listings :



1. Bring It On

2. Coming Right At Ya

3. Steppin' Out

4. She's Always There (For Lana)

5. End Of The Road

6. It's The Way She Moves

7. Outer Drive

8. Still Thinkiing About You

9. Up Front

10. Way Back When

11. Lovely Day

12. End Of The Road (Reprise)

13. Outer Drive (Reprise)

The Bottom Line

Just Feelin' It



"

Good but could be better

P. BOND | MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE United States | 04/09/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The original tracks, which number five, are good. However, this cd could have been better if there had been more new tracks on the cd. Instead, the producers went back to the earlier cds to fill out this new cd. Michael is a great jazz talent and can produce a cd better than this one by adding new and original tracks. The five new tracks on "Up Front" make the cd worth the price. Next time, give all of Michael's fans an entire new cd."

Good job

Almassy Pal | Hungary | 04/07/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I like the album nice work,but i'd prefer more new songs instad of songs from the previous album."