Merlon Devine - Breathe (2004)

Experience the spiritual journey that Merlon Devine takes you on with his latest release Breathe. This CD is not your typical "smooth jazz" or "Christian saxophonist" CD, because he takes a different approach. "I was once locked in the box that says just because you are a Christian saxophonist, you had to primarily play hymns or cover popular Christian songs, but over the past few years, I dared to step out of that box and I have had tremendous success doing what's in my heart and not just doing what I think people can comprehend. I believe that God has given me new songs with a new sound, and 'he that has an ear can hear' and appreciate them. Furthermore, growing up with a singing mother and sisters, I approach songwriting more like a vocalist would versus the melody lines and song structure of some smooth jazz songs." This new approach and sound is a fresh blend of funky melodies to sometimes R&B / hip-hop type beats. "I like to call it Urban Contemporary Jazz. I've been able to take it to all types of audiences and really broaden the scope of people I can reach through the message of music."

Merlon Devine is no new artist. He's displayed his smooth saxophone skills on the last two recordings of long time Gospel Jazz Keyboardist Ben Tankard. "Recording with Ben has really been a treat. His style is different from mine, yet we flow really well together. He has an excellent ear as a producer and an artist. He knows how to bring some good things out of me. He produced some tracks on my previous CD, and I've played on Play A Lil' Song for Me and his latest Piano Prophet. I really admire the progress he has made in this industry and I consider him to be one of my music mentors." On Breathe, Merlon had the opportunity to work with Keyboardist Bruce Allen of the Gospel Instrumental Duo Allen & Allen. Also, he pulled in the skills of Maurice Henderson of Shabaach Entertainment to mix the project. "Maurice is extremely gifted. We really worked together well and he had the ability to mix my songs to sound exactly like what I envisioned." Maurice, or "Mo" as he is affectionately known, has produced several artists, including Stellar Nominee Lisa McClendon.

Not only has Merlon worked with the above-mentioned artist, but he has also had the advantage of opening up for and/or sharing the stage with well-known recording artist such as Fred Hammond, Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Whalum, and many others. But, don't box him in as only a sideman; most of his appearances are as a solo artist. He is called upon frequently and travels all over the country because of his power packed energetic performances. "I am blessed to be doing this full-time. So many doors began to open that I could not maintain my full-time job because I always needed time off to perform somewhere. Music is my passion and I just could not turn those things down. Thank God I have a supportive and loving wife and children. They always encourage me to pursue my passion."

"This CD is so special to me because each song was written straight from my heart and from my life experiences." Breathe promises to relax, refresh, excite, and uplift your spirit! Take this music journey with Merlon Devine-you'll be glad you did.