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Get ready to get your groove on!  Eric Darius’ latest release, and debut CD on Narada Jazz, is about to hit the streets.  Just Getting Started is a terrific follow-up to his successful Night on the Town and continues with his signature sound of upbeat and funky tunes, flowing melodies, and pure fun.  His talent is boundless and from the first note, Eric continues to prove that he is here for the long haul.

The CD opens up with the kickin’ track, “Steppin’ Up.”  Eric’s sax is playful and the tune never stops. The pace is relentless.  "Chillin' Out" is cool and sexy.  Next up is “Secret Soul.”  A great blend of piano and sax give this quite a romantic, but again playful, sound.  Eric’s personality just shines through his sax voice.

Now is time to officially get your “Groove On.”  This track is powerful, fun, and totally beat driven.  The sax is powerful with a lot of improvisation.  My personal favorite is “Back At Cha.”  This song is truly fluid, melodic and groovy.  It’s one of those tunes that make you close your eyes and really listen hard.  For a slow, introspective groove, listen to “Right Here, Right Now.”  It’s a classic mellow sax voice for kicking back. "Got It Goin' On" carries on the theme of funky, up-tempo music.  That seems to be the genuine style of Eric’s music.  The only cover on this CD is of the Alicia Keys song, “If I Ain’t Got You.”  Eric takes this song and gives it his flavor and groove.  A very nice rendition.

“It’s Alright With Me” is a ballad focusing totally on the sax and giving the listener a feel for the versatility of Eric’s playing. From soft and yearning notes to long, powerful solos, this takes you through many emotions.  “Can’t Let Go” gives an almost Latin groove to the sax sound and drum beat.  The final tune is “Slick.”  And it truly is.  It is a Culbertson-sounding infusion. Funky with a killer horn section in addition to Eric.  A great finish to a terrific CD.

Eric Darius has proven to us once again that his young age has no bearing on the quality of his work.  His style of funky, danceable music is infectious and will carry him far.  This is definitely another great add to your collection.

- Bonnie Schendell



CD Reviews return to home page interviews CD Reviews Concert Reviews Perspectives - SmoothViews State of Mind Retrospectives - A Look Back at a Favorite CD On The Side - The Sidemen of Smooth Jazz On the Lighter Side - A Little Humor News - What's New in Smooth Jazz Links - A Guide to Smooth Jazz on the Web Contact Us About Us Website Design by Visible Image, LLC