Sax man, JASON JACKSON is a rising star on the UK smooth jazz circuit with an intriguing CV. As a teenager he studied saxophone under the tutelage of James Brown’s longtime saxophonist Leroy Harper Jr. Then the military beckoned – with Jason going on to spend ten valuable years in the US Navy. Valuable? Well, yes – as part of the Navy band he got to hone his skills and to perform all over the world! Then shortly before exiting the Navy, Jackson sent a demo recording to acclaimed jazz producer Adam Hawley. Duly impressed, Hawley hooked up with the sax man and a pro career was born!
‘Looking Up’ is Jackson’s third recording project, following his ‘Movin’ On’ EP and the ‘All In’ album and like those sets, this ten tracker is replete with soulful groove and catchy melodies – all delivered with the slick, professionalism associated with producer Adam Hawley (who also plays guitar, and keyboards and handle programming on the set).
Jackson and Hawley set out their stall right from the start with the soulful, funky ‘Bump’ which is anchored by a rubbery bass line from Julian Vaughn. Other album guests include trumpet ace Rock Braun on the sensual ‘Upside Down’, Chieli Minucci whose guitar features on the more laid back ‘Day Break’ and two-time Grammy-winning bassist Mel Brown who locks down the infectious ‘With The Get Down’ alongside drummer Eric Valentine.
For soul fans, the album focus cut has to be a sweet and lovely cover of dear Luther’s ‘Take You Out Tonight’. Here the vocal comes via L.A soul man L Young. Righty, the pair treat the tune with respect but make it sufficiently different to merit serious investigation. It’s an intimate affair and we’re told that Vandross holds a special place in Jackson’s heart: “Luther has always been a special artist to me ever since his greatest hits CD was dropped into my candy bag one Halloween night. To this day, I don’t know why that person decided that I needed some Luther in my life more than a Snickers bar, but I’m glad he did! That CD ignited my love for R&B. I’ve always wanted to cover a Luther song, and I think this unplugged vibe is the perfect way to end the record”. Perfect … indeed!
This album will be released October 25th. In the meantime, ‘Upside Down’ is available as a single.
(BB) 3/5
