Roots Music Report

Artist: Ghost Jazz Trio

Album: Groovin Smooth

Released: 2023

Website: https://theghostjazztrioband.com/

The new Ghost Jazz Trio album Groovin Smooth is titled absolutely perfectly. It is the smoothest of smooth jazz guitar playing and production. The band consists of founder/guitarist/composer and producer James Morgan. On this new release James is joined by guitarist and producer Dean Brown, who co-wrote many of the songs and plays guitar, keys, synth and percussion. All the songs on the album are produced and arranged by Dean Brown. Joining James and Dean on the album are bassist Nathan Brown, pianist Chase Pado and drummer Tres Hodgens. It was recorded by Grammy winner engineer Alan Sanderson at Pacific Beat Recording Studio in San Diego. The album is slick without being overproduced, which is a breath of fresh air in the smooth jazz genre. It is a throwback to a time when there were real musicians playing real instruments. It is reminiscent of the genre's heyday when every city had a smooth jazz station where we could hear the virtuosity of Lee Ritenour, Chuck Loeb and Larry Carlton on the airwaves. Track One and the first single, On The Groove, is a standout track that jumps right off the speakers with a crisp drum sound and a memorable melody, played with octaves reminding me of the great Wes Montgomery. The piano adds wonderful splashes of color while the deeply pocketed band grooves and twists with maturity and taste. The guitar and piano solos are executed perfectly showing both chops and restraint. The second single from this fine release is Sound of Wood. This cut is as smooth as it is chill. The guitar tone and playing are simply perfect for the track. The mix somehow brings all the musicians to the forefront. The bass line is sexy and funky, the drums are subtle yet popping and the piano and guitars play off one another like two dancers in sync. This song is truly an ensemble effort wrapped into a wonderful composition that came together on every level.

Cool Hand is another track that I really enjoyed. It has a slinky and hypnotic quality. The song is a slow burn with clever hits and stops. Again, the guitar and piano dance off of one another while the rhythm section provides a rock solid foundation for all to shine. This one is quite unique and well written, reminding me of something that Sting would write. This ten track contemporary jazz album is a must listen for fans of the genre. One of my favorite things about this record is the band is clearly centered around the guitar player while still creating interesting interplay that pleases more than just guitarists. The songs and melodies are represented as deeply as the solos and musicianship. The rhythm section is locked and grooving throughout the set. The band is stacked with mature seasoned musicians that are comfortable in a supporting role and able to display significant chops without ever stepping on the song. I hope this record finds the listeners it deserves!