David Benoit - Conversation (2012)

The acclaimed pianist, composer, conductor, arranger and producer David Benoit returns with a new set following the success of 2010's 'Earthglow'. Always known for his creativity, 'Conversation' is one of David Benoit's most ambitious albums yet, as it merges elements of jazz, classical, pop, world influences and more. "When I started making records, I never conformed to a specific format," says Benoit, whose recording career began with the release of Heavier Than Yesterday in 1977. "Mostly my records were just me writing and playing my own music, directly from my heart. I've come back to that on this record, but using some orchestral colours this time. As a composer, I've stretched a bit, and this really represents where I am right now as a pianist, as a musician, as a composer. It's a very good snapshot for people who have been following me for a while. This is where I am right now. I'm not pandering to radio. I'm just doing what I love to do, and that's what's been so much fun about it." Benoit gets assistance from musicians representing a broad cross section of styles: electric guitarist Jeff Golub, acoustic guitarist Pat Kelley, guitarist David Pack, flutist Tim Weisberg, classical pianist Robert Theis and a cadre of young classical players who are fearless about taking their music to less traditional and more adventurous and exploratory places.

Tracklist:

1. Napa Crossroads Overture [3:47]
2. Feelin' It [3:57]
3. Diary Of A Wimpy Kid [3:07]
4. Kei's Song Redux [4:49]
5. Sunrise On Mansion Row [4:10]
6. You're Amazing [3:21]
7. Q's Motif [3:11]
8. Let's Get Ready [4:47]
9. Conversation (From Music For Two Trios) [4:55]

Personnel:

David Benoit - piano, keyboards, Fender Rhodes, synthesizer;
David Pack - guitar, additional orchestrations (1);
Pat Kelley - electric guitar, acoustic guitar (1-6, 8, 9);
David Hughes - bass, Fender electric bass (1, 3- 5, 7-9);
Jamey Tate - drums (1, 3-5, 7-9);
Brad Dutz - percussion (1-6);
David Sills - tenor sax, soprano sax (2, 5, 8);
Tim Weisberg - flute, piccolo, (4, 6);
Jeff Golub - lead guitar solo (3);
June Benoit - violin (3).