Search - Rick Braun :: Body & Soul

Smooth Jazz....with Heart and Soul!

douglas barton | Arlington, Va. | 11/04/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Rick Braun's "Body and Soul" is, simply put, one of the most "delicious" cd's I currently have in my collection.The entire disc is subtle, low-key and in it's own fashion extremely elegant. While catching flack for being a "smooth jazz" artist Mr. Braun shows his unique talents in this collection, not just by his gift of melody, but by making each song as distinctive as the previous. His phrasing is at once gentle, hesitant and beautifully restraind. Which is something that,when pertaining to the "smooth jazz" genre, can be difficult to find ( Boney James, can you hear me? ). I'm aware some jazz purists may have difficulty with this style of jazz (and yes, it is jazz!) but Rick Braun's mellow horn reminds me so very much of an early Miles. .. I'm referring to his "Birth of the Cool" and "Kinda Blue" discs. I'm aware some may read that last sentence and shake their fists at my remarks for my comparisons but there it is! Blashemy...I'm sure! Nevertheless, the disc does hold some pleasant surprises, for me that being "Chelsea" and "Hymn For Her" plus a reputable rendition of "Body And Soul". Listening to the entire disc one finds that each selection works extremely well with the previous so when judged in it's entirety it truly does flow together very nicely. I tend to listen to this cd while home alone, with a favorite bottle of wine and one or two pleasant memories to get me through the evening. You really shouldn't ask more than that of any piece of music. Overall, this entire cd is almost hypnotic in it's beauty and simplicity...and for that, I truly repect any artist who manages that feat. In the end, a disc definitely worth having and enjoying at your leisure."

It's "Nook-Nook" time...

scottt@pacbell.net | Woodland Hills, CA | 12/31/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is the perfect background for either a Sunday afternoon BBQ with some good friends, or a sultry night in front of the fireplace with a glass of wine and a special someone.... Smooth and sophisticated, Rick Braun's playing makes "trumpet jazz" cool again.... "Hymn for Her" STILL gives me goosebumps every time I listen to it - truly haunting and enchanting...."

SensuousTrumpet Playing

John Birkhead | 05/15/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Purchased this album because of the great Album cover, was I surprised when I popped it into my CD player. I hadn't heard of Rick Braun before but after listening to this CD, I ran out and purchased everything he has ever recorded. Never have I heard a trumpet sound so beautiful. Share this music with someone you love."