Cool
is
George Duke
's sixth release for the
Warner Brothers Jazz
recording label and features 13 songs clad in situations actually encountered and lived by this giant of jazz, R&B, and pop. The
Duke
lifestyle makes a dramatic appearance through his richly textured vocal remembrances of his childhood on
"Marin City"
and spoken introductions that reflect the inner and ancestral sources that feed his soul and music on
"Ancient Source."
displays the joyous, upbeat side of his musical personality on
"If You Will,"
with the great
Flora Purim
in a lively samba with excellent piano styling and background vocals that include his son,
Rashid Duke
. The nucleus of this masterpiece is
"The Times We've Known,"
a song
discovered when asked to do a tribute to
Charles Aznavour
. It is a beautiful, heartfelt experience featuring a gospel choir that heightens what
feels and says in a rousing finale.
is a CD filled with a diverse range of musical styles and expressions, and whether he is the lead vocalist, keyboardist, or providing background vocals, the master is the architect of funk, pop, Latin, gospel, blues, and R&B passion on this excellent musical mission. As composer, arranger, and musical director,
maintains and elevates the styles and spirit of the House of Duke and works in brilliant collaboration with a support team of consummate artists like
Leon "Ndugu" Chanceler
,
Philip Bailey
Tony Maiden
Chante Moore
Paul Jackson, Jr.
, and
the Perry Sisters
: Lori, Sharon, Darlene, and Carolyn. So cool! ~ Paula Edelstein