Jazz/Review Ultrablue - Herbie
Ultrablue, NY pianist John Smatla's mostly instrumental project, has been called "smooth jazz with a New York attitude." Piano-centric and more musically challenging than many in the genre, Ultrablue fuses jazz elements with r&b, pop, and world music flavors. Ultrablue features a variety of mostly-NY-based all-star instrumentalists. Players include Randy Brecker, guitarists Chieli Minucci of Special EFX, Brazilian legends Romero LuBambo and Dave Stryker, drummers Omar Hakim and Joel Rosenblatt (Spyro Gyra), bassists John Benitez, John Pattituci, and Hubert Eaves, and percussionist Mino Cinelu.
Pop, funk, and jazz all come together to create a mesmerizing soundscape in Ultrablue's lively homage to the great jazz pianist Herbie Hancock, "Herbie." The song, named after the idol of John Smatla, demonstrates Ultrablue's skill at merging a contemporary sound with a lively and melodious fusion that pays respect to Hancock's extensive musical heritage.
"Herbie" captures your attention right away with its catchy groove and well-produced sound. The flaming brass section provides a layer of vintage jazz-funk excitement, while the modern keyboard sounds give the song a current air. The genre fusion is flawless. A particularly noteworthy example of Hancock's inventive technique is the interplay between the soprano saxophone and keyboard.
Trevor Lawrence, Herbie Hancock's real drummer, provides flawless drumming that anchors the track's rhythm section and gives it an realistic feel. With a combination of accuracy and spontaneity, Lawrence's drumming drives the song ahead and adds to its overall energy and vibe. His drumming creates a strong but dynamic base.
"Herbie" demonstrates Ultrablue's skill as musician and his regard for jazz customs while still pushing the envelope with contemporary components. The song's appealing and captivating melodies appeal to a broad audience while yet offering jazz enthusiasts plenty of intricacy and nuance. Particularly impressive are the scorching solos and close harmonies in the brass section, which perfectly accentuate the main melody.
"Herbie" honors Herbie Hancock's history from a modern perspective and is a noteworthy track overall. Ultrablue has created a song that is a new and exciting addition to the current music industry, while still paying homage to the past. Fans of jazz, funk, and pop music will all be delighted by this upbeat, dynamic, and well executed homage.