"Publisher's Corner"
by Geoff Wilbur
Sponsored In Part By
Billy Gibson • The Nearness of You
Inside Memphis
Another fine release from Inside Memphis; this one features jazz harmonica
player (and vocalist) Billy Gibson. Gibson's sound is classic, with
a jazzy swing carrying the listener throughout the disc. Though his presentation
of disc-opener "When I Fall in Love" remains my favorite track, it's a
solid journey throughout, with the music representing what you might hear
at an especially hip piano bar or mellow juke joint. Other timeless numbers
performed by Gibson on this disc include "Sweet Lorraine," "Misty," "In
the Wee Small Hours of the Morning," and "In a Sentimental Mood."
Dave Tofani • An American Garden
Solo Winds, Inc.
Saxophonist Dave Tofani has assembled some talented musicians to perform
a fullfilling, enjoyable disc. The title track is uptempo, energetic jazz
that showcases some impressive horn work. It's immediately followed by
the introspective, somewhat melancholy "New York at Night." In all, this
seven-song disc is a pleasant, rewarding listen.
Michael Bolton • Only a Woman Like You
Jive Records
Classic Bolton, showing off his voice while adding a few new spices to
the recipe. "I Wanna Hear You Say It," for example, will get you dancing
a bit. The title track, of course, is one of Bolton's trademark soulful
ballads. Other favorite cuts include "Love With My Eyes Closed," "Dance
With Me," "Simply," and the crescendoing "Slowly."