Search - Jason Carroll and the Smooth Jazz Symphony :: Cool

As if from nowhere, multi instrumentalist and producer Jason Carroll has burst onto the scene with his debut release Cool . Although masquerading beneath the banner of the Smooth Jazz Symphony , all twelve tracks, (plus one bonus addition), are in fact composed, produced, arranged, and performed by Carroll. The result is a smooth and refreshing collection that stands as a wonderful showcase for his work and, for an artist still only twenty one years of age, opens up endless possibilities. Carroll is a native of Wichita, KS and an interest in the drums, which found him drawing his influences from the likes of Buddy Rich, Steve Gadd and Vinnie Colaiuta, later developed into a multi faceted passion for both keyboards and bass. His skill in using keyboards to emulate an entire range of instruments is, for one so young, genuinely amazing and has led in some quarters to him being referred to as the Prince of smooth jazz . Be that as it may Carroll certainly has a vibe all his own and he communicates this through a succession of accessible smooth jazz tracks that have genuine commercial appeal. From the hip and melodic Take 1 through the ultra catchy El Amor De La Musica to the smooth yet edgy Night Out On The Town , the entire album provides constant reminders of just how much in tune Carroll is with the essence of smooth jazz. Personal favorites include Easy Breeze that is every bit as vibey as its title suggests it should be, the radio ready Cruisin The Groove and the delightfully turned down Dreams . Maybe best of all is the bonus track, Jazz It Up . With thumping bass and tight drums laying a wonderful foundation for Carroll s funky keys, it s a song that shows off a different but no less attractive side of his playing.