Reflection

Veteran saxophonist Tim Cunningham keeps getting better and better! For proof, take a few spins with REFLECTION, a 12-song journey to musical heaven that will remind you why you love Smooth Jazz so much. Cunningham, who practically defines smooth, sultry and funky, was once a college football star who passed up the gridiron for music. We're glad he did! After having performed with stars such as Brian Culbertson, Dave Koz, Norman Brown and George Benson, as well as scoring a Top 20 Smooth Jazz hit on his 1996 Atlantic Records release RIGHT TURN ONLY, Cunningham has now rightfully joined the ranks of today's top groovin' instrumental musicians. There are no misfires here, and it's thick beats and swaying sounds are on par with familiar favorites: Surrendered Soul sounds like another hit with it's robust sax lines and a sway reminiscent of the best Boney James. And Big Jess & Sweet Lee, with it's layered sax sounds, will remind you of the best of Steve Cole. If you love Smooth Jazz saxophone, you'll be glad to discover REFLECTION! Look for Tim on the Smooth Jazz Cruise West Coast Edition in October 2013! ~BRIAN SOERGEL.