Despite this CD's title and a slight emphasis on ballads, The Real Quiet Storm is not an easy listening record. James Carter, one of the great new discoveries of the 1990s (and whose versatility, brilliance on a variety of reed instruments, and seeming encyclopedic knowledge of jazz styles makes him a possible successor to Rahsaan Roland Kirk) is heard playing tenor, alto, soprano, baritone, bass clarinet and bass flute on the nine selections, with the impressive pianist Craig Taborn, ...   [ read more ]

CD $13.26

CD $13.28

A curious compilation of lite-jazz and quiet storm favorites, Smooth Sounds is all over the musical map -- alongside more predictable inclusions like George Benson's "Breezin'" and Vanessa Williams' "Save the Best for Last" are oddball selections like the themes to {#Seinfeld} and {#St. Elsewhere}. A real grab bag. ~ Raymond McKinney, All Music Guide

CD $17.08