Shadows

by Jonathan WidranFollowing the major sales and airplay successes of Benoit's previous GRP outings, Shadows is a more conceptual album, a collection that perfectly fuses the hip-hop grooves introduced on Inner Motion's popular track "M.W.A," with a lush orchestral approach. All without losing sight of the spirited composing and playing style that made him one of smooth jazz's biggest stars. Helping bring Benoit and co-producer Marcel East's chemistry to life are friends old and new to the Benoit studio fold: guitarist Pat Kelley; bassists Neil Stubenhaus, Nathan East, and Jimmy Johnson; saxophonist Michael Paulo; drummers Jeff Porcaro and John Robinson; and percussionists Chris Trujillo, Michael Fisher, and Fattburger's Tommy Aros. Adding a gorgeous Brazilian texture to several of the tunes are the wordless vocals and acoustic guitar of Dori Caymmi. Benoit also uses the brass sounds of Michael Patches Stewart and the legendary Freddie Hubbard. Key tracks include the intensely urban "Over the Edge," the classical leaning title track, and "Saudade," a Brazilian piece featuring samba rhythms and bouncy percussion, along with Hubbard's swirling trumpet magic.