After a few years of listening to smooth jazz, I heard about this trumpet guy, Rick Braun. Trumpet?  Okay, trumpet belongs in big bands, orchestras and traditional jazz.  But a smooth jazz trumpet player?  I wasn’t too sure about it, but decided to give him a try.  So, although Rick had a couple of older CDs, I chose to pick up the current one at that time called Body and Soul.Maybe that was due to the alluring title or the cover photo.  All I can say is that I will be forever pleased that I purchased that CD.

The opening track, “Notorius,” quickly became one of my favorite songs.  With Boney James on sax, Rick plays the most powerful and seductive trumpet I had ever heard.  This track has a melody that is enticing and captivating.  “Missing in Venice” is another classic Rick song that has stood the test of time.  The beat is what drives this tune.  The muted trumpet offers a truly “vocal” sound.  The keyboards blend well and add depth and melody.  Next up is “Slick.”  Chris Standring offers terrific guitar work on this up-beat, very funky tune.  Again, Rick gives a clear and crisp performance. 

Another muted trumpet sound is provided on “Chelsea,” with guitarist Jeff Golub.  This is a very melodic, peaceful and beautiful song.  It’s very simple in its sound…very pure.  Now, if you want to get your groove on listen to “Long Tall Judy.”    Jeff Golub again joins Rick on this head-boppin’ track.  There is a terrific give and take between the two that gives a fun and funky sound.  Rick shows his versatility on “Dark Eyes” by playing trumpet, flugelhorn, keyboards, and keyboard bass and drum programming.  The instrumental buffet on this song alone is enough to please every taste.  The title track is another slow and soulful tune.  Rick is so engaging in his texture.  “Angel” is the kind of song that makes you feel like it is being played directly to you.  It has passion and depth.  Another favorite of mine is “Love Will Find A Way.”  I personally love Rick’s voice and have been blessed to hear it more and more over the years as he becomes more comfortable with it himself.  The trumpet is the backdrop for beautiful words and beats.  “Coolsville” is pure fun.  Rick lets loose with the trumpet and gives that groovy sound you think of with jazz trumpet.  The CD ends with “Hymn for Her,” a fitting song that feels as if Rick is putting his whole body and soul into it.  Marc Antoine provides the gentle guitar that plays alongside the trumpet.

This CD was a fantastic way to experience the sound of Rick Braun.  It is one that not only finds its way into the rotation, but one that offers several tracks that are frequently played at concerts.  A true classic.

- Bonnie Schendell