"If you've been listening to "smooth jazz" radio over the past half-decade or so, you've likely heard of the true saxophone talent that is Steve Cole. This Chicago native has been a staple on the airwaves since 1998, when his excellent debut CD "Stay Awhile" was released. Tracks like "Say it Again" and "Think About it" became instant listener favorites. Cole doesn't break any new stylistic ground on this album, but the supple surroundings and silky improvosations make up for him maintaining the status quo.Produced by Brian Culbertson and co-written by Culbertson and Steve Cole, "Stay Awhile" is an excellent intrduction to Cole's soulful, if not fully-developed, style. The slower-paced tracks show off this talent the best, especially the title track, "Our Love" and the final track, "Devotion." While the mid-tempo tracks tend to blend together, the total experience is positive. This album has a few years behind it, but still sounds as fresh as his current work. If you're a fan of Cole's other albums, Boney James, or Nelson Rangell, you'll love this album."
Stay Awhile Steve, Stay Awhile
Caesar Velez | San Antonio, Texas | 12/25/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Steve Cole's release of Stay Awhile is the first of (hopefully) more to come from the Chicago alto saxophonist. His smooth flavor hints of the mid-western contempo and leaves his listeners begging for more. Stay Awhile is a wonderful CD from the first track to the last. Listeners beware: try not to get hooked on just When I Think of You. Turn off the repeat button on the CD player and give the rest of the album a chance. I assure you that you will like it."
Sexy Sax Excells
Trevor S. Howard | Joliet, Illinois | 03/02/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I enjoyed Steve Cole's "Stay Awhile" album very much. Even though I'm considered to be young for a jazz fan(I'm 21), I believe that many others will find Mr. Cole's performance to be a smooth, sexy soundscape that'll get you and your significant other in the mood, or relax and soothe your troubles away. I especially enjoyed tracks 3, 4, and 7, however the entire album is worth an ear! Find out for yourself!"
Fantastic music, touches many moods, great music to live by.
B. Doro | 11/02/1998
(5 out of 5 stars)
"All the music on this CD is excellent. When I heard "When I think of you" on the local smooth jazz station I knew Steve Cole had something special, unfortunately thats the only thing they kept playing which is a travesty since all the music on this CD excels especially the title tune "Stay a while" I hope to hear more from this talented artist in the near future."