VA - Smooth Jazz Radio Hits Volume Two (2000)

The indie label responsible for some of the best acid jazz influenced, retro-minded music in smooth jazzdom continues its series of outstanding representative label samplers with this ten tune collection. All of the songs here were formidable airplay champs, but it would have been nice if the liner notes had complemented these chart details with who's playing on each track. The exciting flute behind guitarist Brian Tarquin's fluid lines on "Darlin Darlin Baby," the potent saxes on Gota's "In the City Life" and Soundscape UK's "Brand New Day" all leave us guessing while we groove along. Of course, Instinct is quick to let us know that the edgy tenor accompanying guitarist Chris Standring on Hip Sway is Richard Elliot, but he's a big star. Other label artists featured here are Count Basic, Nite Flyte, and Shakatak. A perfect collection for new smooth jazz fans trying to understand what all the excitement is about. -- Jonathan Widran