Mystery Solved
09/28/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"As a long time fan of Michael Whalen's music, I have always admired the way this gifted artist could mesh the textures of jazz, classical, and even R&B into a rich landscape that was intricate, yet very approachable. On "Mysterious Ways," probably Whalen's most accessible work to date, he explores the emotions of love- a common theme, perhaps, but told in the context of musical memories: classic Miles Davis/Gil Evans, Roberta Flack, James Ingram, even Maxwell.Like his other offerings, the album is not easy to categorize. Nevertheless, Whalen does not disappoint- sultry vocals and guests that include Chris Botti and Chuck Loeb add a refreshing, unobtrusive touch that should open this artist up to a new group of listeners. "Mysterious Ways" takes what most of us would call "smooth jazz" to a new level with the signature lush, ethereal arrangements and subtleties found on his "Border of Dusk" and "Nightscapes" projects that reveal new discoveries with each listen.Highly recommended"