The September Sessions
Jack Johnsonis one talented man. When he's not surfing or recording laid-back, rootsy rock jams like those on his debut,Brushfire Fairytales, he's filming award-winning movies about surfing like theSeptember Sessions. Oh, and naturally, he has a hand in its soundtrack, an eclectic and relaxing array of jam-band improvisation, bluesy licks, and jazz-flecked rhythms. Johnson's solo contributions, including a cover ofJimmy Buffett's "Pirate Looks at 40," are stripped-down acoustic numbers with as much understated grace asJeff Buckley. Other artists opt for more adornment, likeOzomatli's percussive reggae/hip-hip fusion, the Bollywood funk horn rave-up "Ganges a Go-Go," and the hands-down highlight,GreyboyandKarl Densoncollaborating on a hypnotic bite of modern jazz driven by funky, spring-fresh flute loops.Sublimemay have been the forbearer of breezy oceanside atmosphere, but this fantastic soundtrack takes laissez faire vibes to new levels--and emerges as yet another building block in the foundation of Jack Johnson's rapidly emerging chill-out empire.--Annie Zaleski