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“Start to finish, In Hi-Fi Stereo is something classic and something new at the same time.” Smooth Jazz Daily “Saxophonist, vocalist and writer Mindi Abair re-introduces vintage jazz, R&B and soul on her new album… Solid performances from a stellar line up to chill with.” StudioExpresso.com “Actually, the album's title says a lot about what Abair was going for. The phrase ‘in hi-fidelity stereo’ was used a lot back in the 1960s, and this 48-minute CD often recalls the improvisatory soul-jazz recordings of the ’60s and ’70s. Direct or indirect influences like the Crusaders, the Brecker Brothers, David Sanborn, Tom Scott's L.A. Express, Grover Washington, Jr., David 'Fathead' Newman, and Hank Crawford serve Abair well on an album that is mostly instrumental but also contains a few vocal offerings. The most memorable is a remake of James Brown’s ‘It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World,’ which boasts a bluesy performance by singer Lalah Hathaway (daughter of the late soul legend Donny Hathaway)… In Hi-Fi Stereo is an album that Abair can be proud of.” All Music Guide “Her new release In Hi-Fi Stereo, is released on 18th May and features several delights here! My Track of the Week is her cover of James Brown’s ‘It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World’ featuring Lalah Hathaway – you are never going to beat the original, but this excellent rework pushes it close. In Hi-Fi Stereo rekindles that spark for a new generation of ears…”
JazzFM
“Mindi Abair’s considerable reputation as a smooth jazz superstar has been built on a string of charting albums that often have been characterized by jazzy licks and catchy, pop orientated grooves. However, by way of a departure, she has used her brand new album, In Hi-Fi Stereo, to pay homage to the sounds of R & B, soul and funk that are so synonymous with the sixties and early seventies. In so doing Abair has captured to perfection the essence of what can accurately be described as a musical golden age and is assisted in this endeavour by guest performers James Gadson, Reggie McBride and Ryan Collins. That said, perhaps the most significant contribution is that from co-producer Rex Rideout who for the last twenty years has been a driving force behind much of what is good in urban jazz. The result is a hugely organic collection with an unmistakably ‘live’ feel.”
Smooth Jazz Therapy
“The title for In Hi-Fi Stereo is borrowed from the stamp that used to appear on the front covers of LPs back in the day, for those of you too young to remember, you know them today as vinyl. The stamp indicated you were getting quality sound on your newly purchased record and whether you purchase Mindi Abair’s new album digitally or as a CD you will be getting a quality groove that will keep you on your feet dancing.”
Riveting Riffs
“Fun funk that sizzles with jazz soul undertones and good vibes throughout. This is an overdue breakout set for Abair. Hot stuff that’s right in the pocket.”
Midwest Record
“…packed with radio friendly pop beats layered with her catchy sax melodies. Among the best of the set are the opener, ‘Any Way You Wanna,’ with cool sax dubs and a funky beat, and the mysterious vibe of ‘L’Espirit Nouveau.’”
O’s Place Jazz |
