DAVE KOZ
“The saxophonist Dave Koz reigns not only as one of the most bankable stars of smooth jazz but also one of the most hospitable, a point hammered home on his new compilation album, ‘Collaborations: 25th-Anniversary Collection.’ Among its tracks is a version of Jackie Wilson’s ‘Higher and Higher’ with Mr. Lattimore (on vocals) and Mr. Braun (on trumpet)…” “Whenever jazz saxophonist Dave Koz teams up with other musicians, the result is something unbelievably special.” “Kenny Lattimore’s vocals [on ‘(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher’] makes this lyrical celebration just as electrifying and just as soulful as the original Wilson hit. But it is the tandem playing of Koz and Braun that takes this song into new dimensions.” “There’s something about Koz’s smooth saxophone that is just so likable, and he chooses singers who also have a warmth.” “Feet were tapped to the beat, bodies wriggled in their seats and hands were quick to shower Koz and crew with applause, sometimes even before the end of a song. Nearly every other song was rewarded with a standing ovation....the energy on stage never let up.” “Dave Koz is an extremely gifted musician. To mark the 25th anniversary of his career as a highly skilled saxophone player, he turns to the other artists and musicians who have been an important part of his musical journey. Not only looking back on collaborations with the very best of singers such as Stevie Wonder, Stevie Nicks and Rod Stewart but the fine artistry of other jazz artists such as Jeff Lorber, Rick Braun, Herb Alpert, David Benoit and more. Not only that, but Koz has created three new recordings…” “‘Collaborations 25th Anniversary Collection’ [features] some of Koz’s top musical collaborations…” “Koz, however, is much more than a saxophonist; he's a winemaker, restaurant owner, vlogger, cruise ship entertainer, and radio show host -a man of many trades, indeed.” “‘Collaborations: 25th Anniversary Collection’...is proof to his past success and definitely opens doors to a successful 25 more years of nothing but the best Koz has to offer... a must have...this cd has you covered with pop, country, R&B, soul and even a little touch of gospel...15 unbelievable tracks” “This collection assembles some of Dave’s best recordings with other artists...’Good Foot’ featuring Jeff Lorber kicks this disc off and the mood is set for a great ride. The playing from Dave and Jeff on this instrumental complement each other while setting the tone for the rest of the disc. ‘(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher And Higher’ brings the talented Kenny Lattimore and Rick Braun into the mix on this redux. The vocals swirl nicely around the track while the horns and arrangement build the feel of the song, especially at the bridge.”
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