I've long been a fan of jazz vocalist Gregory Porter. His creamy smooth baritone voice and catchy songwriting have made him a favorite for jazz aficionados worldwide for the last decade. I saw him perform on a scorching Sunday afternoon at the 2018 Newport Jazz Festival where he held the audience enthralled for more than an hour with his unique blend of jazz and soul. He left no doubt that he's not at all over-rated; that he is, in fact, "the real thing."
Now, after a three-year recording hiatus, he is back with his sixth studio album, "All Rise," that is his best effort to date. Here is the ambitious performance that is the culmination of everything his voice and writing are capable of. Instead of the often abstract, enigmatic lyrics of former releases, the songs here are more straight-forward and accessible, ranging from bombastic gospel numbers to sweet, romantic ballads, all with Porter's warm, funky, jazz tones out in front. And where on previous albums Porter was backed by a proficient, but small jazz combo, here he is accompanied by a full horn section, a ten-person choir, and the London Symphony Orchestra string section, as well as his own well-drilled band, resulting in a much more lush, dynamic sound that, thanks to producer Troy Miller, does not sound at all over-produced.
Instead, "All Rise" turns out to be a surprising and welcome amalgam of all the award-winning singer has to offer. Just what is called for in these troubled times. Take a listen!
Now, after a three-year recording hiatus, he is back with his sixth studio album, "All Rise," that is his best effort to date. Here is the ambitious performance that is the culmination of everything his voice and writing are capable of. Instead of the often abstract, enigmatic lyrics of former releases, the songs here are more straight-forward and accessible, ranging from bombastic gospel numbers to sweet, romantic ballads, all with Porter's warm, funky, jazz tones out in front. And where on previous albums Porter was backed by a proficient, but small jazz combo, here he is accompanied by a full horn section, a ten-person choir, and the London Symphony Orchestra string section, as well as his own well-drilled band, resulting in a much more lush, dynamic sound that, thanks to producer Troy Miller, does not sound at all over-produced.
Instead, "All Rise" turns out to be a surprising and welcome amalgam of all the award-winning singer has to offer. Just what is called for in these troubled times. Take a listen!
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