Euge Groove - Born 2 Groove (2007)

After searching for a more inspired way to indulge his chart-topping contemporary jazz sound, saxophonist/composer/arranger Euge Groove has created his most personal statement to date as an artist. On Born 2 Groove, the versatile saxophonist surrounds himself with an array of masterful gospel musicians who speak a completely different musical language. The result is ten brand new tracks, seven of which were recorded completely live. With special guest appearances by the great Jeffrey Osborne on "Baby If You Only Knew (What I Could Do)" and former Temptations lead singer Ali "Ollie" Woodson on "I Love You More Than You'll Ever Know," Groove should also gain even more appreciation for his musical interpretations from his ever-increasing R&B fan base. The song's themes range from the gently playful and laid-back feeling heard on the opening track "A Summer's Night Dream" to the beautiful Italian inspired imagery inherent in "Café del Soul" to the spiritual essence of "Religify." Groove flat out seduces you, moves you and grooves you on this record. Several of his performances, including "Slow Jam," "I Love You More Than You'll Ever Know," "Movin' On," the title track, and "Mr. Groove" reveal him as an accomplished, instinctive musician. His emotional solos and different chord voicings within a larger harmonic setting give him an edge over several of his generation's contemporary jazz counterparts. This CD is where the real players play. Fans of Euge Groove will experience a premium new sound set in HD digital technology that is filled with his incomparable saxophone voices, stirring gospel riffs and emotional, soulful vocals, all of which set a new standard for Groove's distinctive contemporary jazz sound. ~ Paula Edelstein