Spyro Gyra-Best Of
This compilation covers the years 1977 to 1987, when Spyro Gyra was blazing new ground, blending jazz and pop elements in an original way that would eventually help define the emerging genre of smooth jazz. It touches on the band's Buffalo, New York, origins with "Shaker Song," recalls its first great success with "Morning Song," and documents the emergence of saxophonistJay Beckensteinas an outstanding studio producer. Along the way, it also features the various musicians who have contributed to the group through the years. The original keyboard player Jeremy Wall contributes several compositions, including the touching "Autumn of Our Love" and the joyous "Summer Strut." There's an infectious humor to former bassist Kim Stone's "Bob Goes to the Store," while current member Julio Fernandez creates a fine setting for his own passionate guitar with "Del Corazon." Beckenstein's ability to work guest musicians into striking arrangements is apparent inRandy Brecker's trumpet with wah-wah pedal on "Catching the Sun," while bassistEddie Gomezcontributes distinctive energy to "Conversations." It's a stellar collection of tunes that will appeal to longtime fans and introduce the band's early career to recent devotees.--Adam Rains