CCMusic.com

• Track Listing

Tom Grant has produced his first all original smooth jazz record since his 1998 Windham Hill release ("Tune It In"). The new record, LIFE IS GOOD, contains 10 new songs and 2 tunes ("Mysterious Smile" and "In My Body, Out of My Mind") that are reprised from earlier works by the pianist-singer-composer. One of the redone oldies is "Mysterious Smile", a haunting and compelling airplay candidate from the Windham Hill record, co-written by Tom and Pink Martini bassist, Phil Baker. Also on this CD is a collaboration between Tom and sultry soul singer Shelly Rudolph. The song is called "Gold" and it could be the perfect wedding song for newlyweds anywhere. It is co-written by Tom and Shelly and has strong AC potential. LIFE IS GOOD also highlights Tom's affinity for the Bossa Nova feel of the 60's, evidenced by songs such as "Cool Shoes", the haunting ballad "Regarding You", and the final cut on the album, "Easy Landing". The opening piece on the CD is a funky finger-popper featuring Dan Schauffler, Saxophonist with Nu Shooz and the Crazy 8's. Tom's regular bass player Dave Captein is heard on this record, along with Gino Vanelli drummer Reinhard Melz. There are excellent arrangements by Portland's Steve Christofferson and orchestral arrangements from LA film arranger, Michael Eliot. All this and a package beautifully designed by William Wadhams with final mixes and additional production by the great Doug Durbrow. LIFE IS GOOD also contains sweet ambient grooves like the tune called "Morning Glorious" as well as "Easy Landing", along with a couple of smart solo piano pieces, "Garden of Sublime Enchantment" and "In My Body, Out of My Mind".