Najee, a pioneer of the "rhythm and jazz" movement of the '80s that helped
define the contemporary jazz scene, joins Heads Up International with the
worldwide release of My Point of View on SACD in 5.1. The album is a culmination
of nearly two decades of cutting edge work by a versatile saxophonist who has
consistently tested and redefined the parameters of an entire musical genre.
Rich in texture and theme, My Point of View includes guest appearances by three
fine vocalists, veteran Will Downing and newcomers Lomon Andrews and Sisaundra.
Other session personnel include keyboardists James Lloyd ("2nd 2 None"), Rex
Rideout ("Back in the Day" and "Charm") and Chris "Big Dog" Davis ("3 AM,"
"Falling in Love with You," "My Point of View" and "How Lovely You Are"). All
three of these keyboard virtuosi also earn songwriting and production credits
along the way in addition to laying down tracks.
The album is just what the title suggests. "My Point of View is really my
personal statement," says Najee. "The one piece of feedback that I’ve really
enjoyed hearing from my associations throughout the music industry is that I
have my own distinct musical voice. I think it’s not necessarily something I’ve
consciously strived for. It’s just a signature sound that has evolved over time.
I think the title song conveys that sense of individuality."
"Najee has impressive musical influences, but retains his own sound…" -
Launch Radio Smooth Jazz Newsletter
Musicians:
Najee, saxophones and flute
Featuring:
Will Downing, vocals
Sisaundra, vocals
Lomon, vocals
Chris Big Dog Davis, keyboards and drum programming
James Lloyd, keyboards and programming
Wayne Bruce, guitar
Rex Rideout, keyboards and programming
Dwight Sills, guitar
Dwayne Smitty Smith, bass
Michael White, drums
Rohan Reid, bass guitar
Nathaniel Crockett Wilkie, keyboards
Alvin White, guitar
Greg Phillips, drums
Superb, guitar and drum programming
Michael Dre Boogie Edwards, bass guitar
Khalil Parker, keyboards
Selections:
1. Sidewayz
2. 3 AM
3. Fallin' In Love With You
4. Back In the Day
5. Charm
6. My Point of View
7. 2nd 2 None
8. Emotional
9. How Lovely You Are
10. Miyuki
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