Search - Paul Hardcastle :: Jazzmasters 1

Never as good as the first time

Distant Voyageur | Io | 02/25/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The 1991 release of Paul Hardcastle's album under the monikor, the "Jazzmasters" proved to be the beginning of a spectacular era in smooth jazz when it was released. The opener "Sounds of Summer" instantly grabbed me with it's beautiful keyboard arrangements, danceable hip-hop beat and beautiful vocal arrangements by Helen Rogers. "Northern Lights" is probably the most well-known track on the album since it is built over the drum loop of Chris Deburgh's "Lady In Red" but it's still very original in sound. "Heaven" is beautiful with a haunting atmospheric sound and airy keyboard echoes throughout the track. Then there are "Strollin", and the fast-paced "Blowing Free" with it's heavy hip-hop techno beat. Paul Hardcastle must have had a lot of fun making this record and it shows. He has done many great ones under the Jazzmasters name but this one remains my favorite one."

Paul and Helen The Most Magical Duo

E. Lee Brown | Germany | 08/04/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Funny, I was stationed in Europe in the 80's when jazz infused with pop/r&b/and house music began to take over the European dance scene. Well back in the States I missed that smooth flavor with timeless thoughts of being carefree. I happened to be working as a police officer in a MAJOR city when I was writing a report and I overheard this music coming from a parked vehicle. Upon hearing the third song "Body Heat" I went over to that vehicle and startled the guys with my presence and politely asked, "whose that singing? This flava reminds me of European style of jazz." One gentleman replied, "Jazzmasters, and they are from the UK."



Well, I've been hooked on "Jazzmasters" ever since and that was in 1992. 2009, I play this cd as well as the other "Jazzmaster" series and I'm still a fanatic of Paul Hardcastle and the lovely, dynamic, stylistic sounds of Helen Rogers as if it was my first listening. All songs off "Jazzmasters" have become a special part of me. "Blue Days" lift me when I'm feeling a bit down, "Body Heat," and "Northern Lights" just set your mind free from whatever. When I'm ending my holiday I play "see You in July" it is most appropriate. "Jazzmasters" is some of the best genuinely produced work that I've ever heard. With that being said "Jazzmasters" is a MUST HAVE for every jazz/pop/soul enthusiast, you will not be dissappointed. I've gatherered quite the collection of Paul's and Helen's "Jazzmasters" over the years and it continues to grow with every released effort.

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Smoooth!!!!!

William K. Kelly | ar,usa | 02/07/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is one of if not my favorite jazzmasters release,i bought this one to replace my cd that some how disappeared"