BRIAN SIMPSON
South Beach
Shanachie Records

When I first saw Brian Simpson perform on the Warren Hill Smooth Jazz Cruise in 2005… he was the cruise’s musical director… I was quite impressed. Then I heard his first solo album, IT'S ALL GOOD. I was even more impressed. Now, a few cruises later, a successful second release, ABOVE THE CLOUDS and now his latest album, SOUTH BEACH, I consider Brian Simpson, as do so many Smooth Jazz superstars, one of the absolute best in the biz. His piano/keyboard work, influenced primarily by none other than Oscar Peterson, sparkles and dances on the ten infectious melodies and percolating grooves to be found on this exceptional project. Add the likes of Euge Groove, Peter White and George Duke to this project’s guest artist list, and you have a guaranteed smash on your hands. Need more convincing? May I present Exhibit A – SOUTH BEACH… the latest from Brian Simpson! ~Scott O'Brien