Freddie Ravel
Though Freddie Ravel has done stints as music director for singerAl Jarreauand as a touring member ofEarth, Wind & Fire, the keyboardist remains one of the best-kept secrets in smooth jazz. This album, his third, and his first in six years, may change that. Pretty melodies and lush arrangements that are dominated by the music of his Hispanic heritage mark Ravel's music.Marc Antoine, Peter White, and the team ofStrunz and Farahwill draw fans of flamenco guitar to this release. And Ravel's legendary ex-bandmates from EW&F;, bassist Verdine White and guitarist Al McKay, add a funk punch to the track "Sunny Side Up." Ravel shows his palatable vocal chops on the memorable Latin-pop song, "Love Is in the Air ... When You're Aware," a tune that owes a distinct rhythmic debt toTito Puente. This outing for Ravel should resonate with anyone fond of the crossroads between smooth jazz and samba, rumba, and merengue.--Mark Ruffin