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Bob Baldwin
Mt. Vernon, NY native Bob Baldwin is unquestionably an unsung hero when it comes to the smoothjazz genre. Why, you say? With each project released, Baldwin promptly delivers the goods with his debut “All In A Days Work” on 215 Records is certainly not departure for his winning formula as a composer, arranger keyboardist and producer. Fortunately, Bob was blessed to be taught to play the piano by his father (Robert Baldwin Sr.) Meanwhile, we should seriously consider his musical influences as a youngster with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Patrice Rushen, Chick Corea, EWF, Joe Sample and Ramsey Lewis their voicings can destinctively be heard in his music. Yes, it’s obvious this cast of prominent players had a profound impact on Baldwin’s musical journey. The opening track sets the pace with an infectious groove appropriately titled “A New York Minute” featuring Regan Whiteside on flute is definitely one of my favorite tracks on the cd. Baldwin interweaves his signature Urban Jazz sound in optimum motion, while switching gears flawlessly with the flexibility of only a seasoned player can accomplish. The groove merchant Baldwin keeps the flavor in sync with the title cut “All In A Days Work,” this time he adds a twist of backing vocals to accent the piece, which reminds me of his “Brazil Chill” release from his A440 Records debut last year. Baldwin’s keyboard artistry and compositional stylings are custom made with a flavorsome hint of enchanting backing vocals on the next selection titled “Day-O,” featuring guitarist Phil Hamilton. This time Baldwin wraps his voice around this breezy mid-tempo jewel that fits perfectly into the mode of a dreamy stroll in the park or cruising’ the city with the sunroof back on a warm summer night! Baldwin’s intuition of masterminding just the right “hook” is simply mesmerizing! That said, “Third Time’s The Charm” featuring saxophonist David Mann does the trick calling out for yet another spin! With several selections neatly sandwiched in between the set of songs, along comes the refreshing “Sunrise” at the eight spot featuring vocalist Zoiea. The Brazilian flavored “The Very Last Night in Rio,” drops in at the eleventh position. Baldwin effortlessly works the keys with reverie on this steamy piece-featuring trumpeter Barry Danielian and Armando Marcal on percussion. “Don’t Get it Twisted” is up next in rotation, which happens to be one of my favs on the cd. Ironically, this track reminds me somewhat of a George Duke vibe. “All In A Days Work” by the multitalented Baldwin is 13 tracks deep, this compilation of music contains three “interludes,” several tracks with backing voices and a couple of lead vocals which adds up to be over an hour of vibrant, yet refreshingly gratifying collection of jazzy, urban nuances that will undoubtedly satisfy even the most discriminating smooth jazz & urban music aficionados. Baldwin’s understanding of his craft makes him at the top of game as player, in the midst of his compositions laced with the talented cast of musicians makes this project a rewarding listening experience and it should do very, very well for Mr. B !Visit, Bob Baldwin's web space:
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