Michael Manson: Just Feelin It

From 215 Records comes another great smooth jazz performance, this time from bassist Michael Manson. Manson’s Just Feelin’ It, much like Alan Hewitt’s Metropolis, redefines how we think of smooth jazz today. The over-commercialized, almost pop-driven tunes masquerading as smooth jazz on many North American radio stations has sucked all the creativity out of what was once a fun genre. Well, not quite all the creativity, as Manson proves on this very good CD.

The track with the best grooves is “The Bassment”, co-written with LaBelle Lacy. The song features some high spirited piano chops by George Duke. In all eight of the 11 tracks are original compositions.

The lively “Coming Right at Ya'” demonstrates Manson’s prowess as an instrumentalist, as he performs both as a piccolo and tenor bassist. The horn section is spectacular and boasts some of the best blowers in the business with Kirk Whalum, Ted Hosarth, and Jerry Di Muzio all on saxophone, and the incomparable Larry Bowen and Pharez Whitted on trumpets.

I wish I could turn on the radio today and find a station that can guarantee all their music will sound as good as Michael Manson’s.

Can music have words without lyrics? You’re darn right it can, and Manson’s original composition “It’s the Way She Moves” provides 5:20 of enchanting dialogue from some of the best horns in music today. The amazing Larry Bowen’s trumpet, Thomas Braxton’s saxophone, and Steve Barry’s trombone are the eyes through which we watch her move across the room.

The wistful Luther Vandross song “There’s Nothing Better than Love” is a treasure. The smooth vocals of Amiris Palmore, Trina Davis, and Felicia Coleman-Evans flirt with your emotions and pull your heartstrings. Kevin Randolph’s keyboards combine with Michael Logan’s Rhodes and Jason Tyson’s organ to provide a full-bodied vintage. Later on the album, Palmore, Roberta Sanders, Candy La Flora, and Pastor Chris Harris join Davis and Coleman-Evans for a subtle gospel tune “Another Chance.”

The lounge-like “‘Tis So Sweet” has some beautiful arrangements by John Stoddart and the laid back chops of pianist Michael Logan find a firm foundation in Manson’s gentle bassline. Like two old friends sharing a nightcap Logan and Manson swap melodic tales.

Just Feelin’ It has a great balance between purely instrumental tracks and soft vocals. The singers and the musicians are never in competition, but always in perfect harmony. If you were not fortunate enough to be listening to smooth jazz 20 years ago, then you need to hear this album, because Michael Manson’s music is cut from the same fabric as the charts that first gave rise to this genre that, today, too often has become diluted and unrecognizable.