Paul Taylor - Ladies' Choice (2007)

Paul Taylor's standard of excellence on Ladies' Choice includes a full collection of compelling songs that blend retro-soul, romantic music, and contemporary jazz. His unique saxophone voices are paired with the sensual vocals of Regina Belle, Latoya London,Terry Dexter, and Lauren Evans on four separate songs that were designed to move his fans deeper into a world when dance club DJs would stop the music, take the microphone, and declare the next song to be "ladies' choice" -- an invitation for the ladies to pick the guys they want to dance with. Building upon the suggestive stylistic nuances introduced in Pleasure Seeker and refined in subsequent collaborations with "king of urban AC" Barry Eastmond and Rex Rideout, whose trademark is creating subtle accompaniment, Taylor demonstrates his ability to draw you into his music with impeccable soloing and acclaimed melodic ideas. Give a listen to "Summer's End." This song is a prime example of Taylor's ever-so-memorable way on soprano saxophone. His sweet harmonies on "I Want to Be Loved (By You)" and "A Love of Your Own" artfully complement London and Evans with perfect rhythm placement, tone, and elongated notes. His spur-of- the-moment fluid style, patterns, and phrases are ideal for vocalists because, as the consummate instrumentalist, he commands his horn to emulate their delicate, soulful vocals. Performing in keys that are ideal for their range and voice types, both Dexter (on "Long Distance Relationship") and Belle (on "How Did You Know" and "Open Your Eyes") interpret the songwriter's visions with passionate approaches that linger long after their songs end. But Taylor can do a 360, rev up the groove, and kick his songs up to another level of excitement. He does just that on "Streamline" and "Overdrive." Overall, Paul Taylor gives the type of great emotional performance that is beyond explanation, and with Ladies' Choice he has created another affecting romantic experience that should keep his fans happy for years to come. ~ Paula Edelstein