Having spent the better part of the last ten years on the road with Brian Simpson, I feel particularly qualified to comment on this artist’s talent. Most of the time, I simply stand in awe of what he can do, whether supporting other
artists (including myself) so effortlessly or, as he does so beautifully here on his second album for Rendezvous, Above The Clouds, stepping up and taking center stage as the true and deserving soloist he is.

His last album, “It’s All Good” brought Brian into the game with the smash #1 hit title track and this album, in my opinion, seals the deal for him as one of the preeminent stars in the world of smooth jazz, with an incredibly bright future ahead of him.

A gifted songwriter with an ability to really connect with a melody, Brian is able to walk that fine line between musical adventurousness and accessibility. And at the center of it all is his trademark touch on the piano. He plays with such heartfelt emotion and sensitivity, while at times he lets us see that whimsical sense of humor that is uniquely his.

Above The Clouds includes inspired guest performances by George Duke, Wayman Tisdale, Kirk Whalum, Chuck Loeb and yours truly. One stunning addition – a never-before heard solo from the late, great Michael Brecker which fittingly closes the album (leave it to Brian to bring this beautiful gem to us)– quite simply, it will stop you in your tracks.

From the first note to the last, Brian Simpson takes us on a wonderful, satisfying journey ‘Above The Clouds.’ I hope you enjoy your time up there as much as I did.

– Dave Koz
Summer 2007

Close Window