Search - Mike Levine :: From the Heart

For fans of piano led contemporary jazz

D. Parsons | 04/13/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Being a long time fan of Dave Grusin, David Benoit, Jeff Lorber, Joe McBride, Gregg Karukas, etc., I was bound to enjoy this CD. For the most part, this is organic, acoustic contemporary jazz at its best featuring Mike's warm, melodic style on piano. Also, he produced the entire CD and composed all the music, except for a nice cover of the beautiful standard "That's All"(the only vocal track). Despite Mr. Levine's wonderful influence throughout, this is truly a group effort. The ensemble includes several first rate musicians, and makes great use of guitar(Hiram Bullock & Dan Warner). Several songs feature a wonderfully tight horn section(trumpets, flugelhorn, saxes & trombone) playing great arrangements. In this regard, 1 or 2 tracks may remind you of Russ Freeman's/The Rippingtons' use of horns. Mike Levine has created an album of great melodies which sometimes seems a little hard to find in new music. For this reason, I believe this CD will be enjoyed again and again, and I will look forward to future projects from this gifted composer and artist."

TennisGrandpa

Dale Shepard | 07/18/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I felt obligated to insert a review of my own. Not only about Mike Levines release but D. Parsons review as well. When I listen to the sample clips of artists, then read the reviews, alot of times I think to myself, what the heck were these people listening to to get that review. Most of the time I feel like I'm breathing rarified air and know more than most people, that's a joke. But first off, Levines new CD is excellent, really, not a bad song in the mix which is rare. Style reminds me alot of Brian Simpson or Brian Culbertson. I highly recommend the CD.



D. Parsons, to you I say, welcome to the air! Great and accurate review, you'll be receiving your "I know Jazz" membership card in the mail!

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