CD Review: Alex Lattimore – Promise
The 80’s were a time when R&B held some of the most timeless voices in soul music. Well, Alex Lattimore seems to have been blessed with a voice that blends that golden age of soul into a well produced package of quality soul and jazz that he has unleashed upon the soul music world in a debut CD entitled Promise. It’s as if Lattimore invoked the spirit of Luther Vandross and Anita Baker and left a few of the rough edges in there just to assure all that he still has a bit of himself to offer as an original.
This originality is anchored in his ability beyond a mere vocalist. Lattimore is a songwriter, arranger, producer, and a multi instrumentalist (Flugel Horn, Synthesizer, Rhodes Piano, Moog). This has led him to perform with the likes of Tina Turner, Michael McDonald, India.arie, Earl Klugh, Groove Collective, Maysa, Roy Ayers, and so many more.
Even with the throwback soul appeal in his vocals there is one major theme that carries throughout this CD, sexy. On his title track, “Promise” his bassy masculine voice guides you throughout a beautifully arranged track that harmonizes over a fun bassline and a simple groove. The experience of this track definitely conjures visions of BIG Luther…not lil’ Luther! And you will definitely find yourself wondering if Lattimore was a lost relative, cousin, or simply a reincarnation of Mr. Vandross. Couple this track with “Lullabye” and you have enough to light some candles, chill a wine bottle, and set the mood for that special someone.
What makes Lattimore shine is his devotion to a more traditional jazz sound than simply a soul scene. These dimensions to his talent are quite clear on the latin jazz flavored “Sunlight In My Rain” and “Windows”. On “Bernadette”, Lattimore takes a page from Will Downing or Marcus Miller and skats over a bass guitar bent upon making you sway to the quiet storm beat. Alex also takes charge of an astounding remake of Keni Burke’s “Rising To The Top” with truly inspired sax play. Then on “Jazzman Blues”, Lattimore takes things a step further with a scorching, smooth, sexy, and sultry vybe that will put a drink in your hands, sunglasses on your face, a stage under your speakers, and a jazz club in your room!
As a complete project, Lattimore has definitely set the stage for himself as an essential contemporary jazz artist and soul singer that will keep smooth jazz on the map, minds, and hearts of many.
Buy Alex Lattimore’s CD “Promise” from CD Baby
