 If
I were to put together an “essentials” list for
smooth jazz albums, Lucky Man would
definitely be in the top five. Recorded in 1993, it’s
classic Dave Koz, and 13 years later, it is still a wonderful
example of all that is good and exciting about smooth jazz.
Lucky Man kicks off
with “Shakin’ The
Shack.” What a way to start an album! Funky,
fun, sassy, upbeat – this could easily be described as
a great “skills-set resume.” There is some
seriously funky sax-playing going on here. Following that
is the song that has become Koz’s signature song, the very
infectious “You Make Me Smile.” This one is
a permanent resident on every one of Koz’s live show playlists. Up
next is another smooth jazz classic, “Faces of the Heart.” The
album version is a very tender and reflective version of the
long-running General Hospital theme.
Moving from reflective to funky, Zelma Davis lends her vocal
talents to “Don’t Look Any Further.” From
funky back to tender, “Tender Is The Night” is a
wonderful romantic song featuring Phil Perry on vocals. Koz
doesn’t let you get stuck in any particular groove for
long on this album. Next up is “Saxman.” This
one is a four minute and 25 second high-energy party celebrating
the instrument and the musicians that play it. The credits
on this one are a Who’s Who list – joining Koz on
the sax are Clarence Clemmons, Maceo Parker and “Doc” Kupka. And
if that isn’t enough, there’s Booker T. Jones on
organ, Nathan East on bass, and Paul Jackson, Jr. on guitar.
“After Dark” treats us to that trademark
Dave Koz soprano sax sound in an ethereal, contemporary jazz
piece that takes the listener on one of those great musical journeys
that you don’t want to end. Koz gives us another
intimate, tender moment with another Koz classic - the title
track, “Lucky Man,” sung by Charles Pettigrew. Picking
up the pace again is the upbeat, and at times, funky “Silverlining” – another
crowd favorite at live shows. Following that is “Wait
A Little While,” that is, for the most part, a gentle,
yet emotionally present ballad. Though not one of the most
well known tracks on this album, it is signature Dave Koz.
“Show Me The Way” is not just my favorite track
on this album, it is one of my all-time favorite songs. It
has caused me to hit the repeat button more than any other song. Written
by Dave and his brother Jeff and outstanding from beginning to
end, “Show Me The Way” has one of the best “musical
moments” of any song I’ve heard. Closing the
album is “Misty” – just Koz and his sax – a
perfect way to end a truly classic CD.
- Elizabeth Ware
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