Gerald Albright - Groovology (2002)

Gerald Albright offers his listeners ten fresh musical concepts on his GRP label debut entitled Groovology, and they are musical concepts that have not been done to death. At the top of his game, this collection of songs gives Albright a marvelous opportunity to exhibit his multitude of musical skills, including composing, arranging, producing, and playing all four saxophone voices, in addition to several other instruments. Not exactly an easy task. Accompanied by a splendid roster of guest artists, Gerald Albright is sensitive, funky, grooving, smooth, and also demonstrates his irresistible rhythm and blues-inflected ballad work on such songs as "Bring a Lil' Love," "I Will Always Love You," and "I Need You." On "We Fall Down," Albright's blowing is subdued but in an unusually relaxed manner that is idiosyncratically smooth yet rooted in the R&B/gospel tradition. However, the top picks are "Old School Jam" and "Groovology" because of their memorable hooks and grooves. Excellent solos, vocals, and supportive arrangements make this one a keeper for Gerald Albright fans. ~ Paula Edelstein