SmoothJazz.com Review
Sandy Shore | Monterey, CA | 06/15/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"You, me and Dupree... the recipe for an introspective, groove-injected sonic experience. The new TIME AND TIDE is an amalgamation of intoxicating, funky-retro grooves, sophisticated lyrics and rich vocals from hitmaker Robbie Dupree. You remember the 1980 smash "Steal Away" and the Top 10 follow up, "Hot Rod Hearts"? Since those days, he's been quite busy writing, producing and performing, with some 9 recordings to his credit over the past 25 years and a loyal, global audience. TIME AND TIDE is the artist's first foray into Smooth Jazz, a genre he feels is simpatico with his adult brand of music... we fully agree! The Woodstock, NY resident has created a collection of songs here for 2008 that reflects a jazz sensibility with a pop agenda. Fans of Steely Dan, Michael Franks, Don Henley and, thinking even more contemporary, John Mayer... will thrill at Dupree's new, artful adventure. What we don't have here is an 80's pop star repackaging his material and selling it as fresh. Instead, Robbie Dupree is an evolved musician's musician who surrounds himself with stellar players, new media and innovative ideas. This Renaissance man has produced a brilliantly robust new album; to our ears it rivals anything we've heard from the above-mentioned iconic artists. Tracks like "Sugar Tree," "Blue Monday," "Wrapped Around Your Finger" and "Satisfied" are sure to lure you into the ever-evolving world of Robbie Dupree."