Confidential
What separates White from the crowded pack of smooth-jazz guitarists is his exquisite sense of melody. That skill is on full display onConfidential, easily the most well-rounded album of White's career. Among the highpoints here is the return of vocalistChristopher Cross, who shines on a cover ofBrenda Russell's light bossa nova tune, "She's in Love." Other guests include pianistBrian Culbertson, who offers aBob James-like solo on the title track, trumpeterChris Botti("Stormfront"), and saxophonistMindi Abair, who graces "Are You Mine." But it's White's lines that soar throughout, like melodies in search of words.--Mark Ruffin