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Album Review

“Amplified Soul” is the 16th album from the London, England-based jazz band. Guitarist/Producer/Composer Sean-Paul "Bluey" Maunick is the straw that stirs the drink since the early 1980's but it should be noted that throughout the years he has constantly dipped into the American talent pool with the likes of trumpeter Chris Botti, vocalist Jocelyn Brown and Maysa Leak who played a significant role in the group's success for over a decade.

On “Amplified Soul,” Maunick felt the need to feature three vocalists including Vanessa Haynes, who strikingly resembles Maysa on the Atlantic Starr remake "Silver Shadow" and this arrangement did not disappoint with "bluey" turning loose on a Nile Rodgers (Chic)-like attack on the rhythm guitar blended beautifully with sexy background vocals. "Rapture" features the voice of Melonie Crosdale who is not as spectacular as Maysa or Vanessa Haynes for that matter but she knows her limitations and did not over compensate.

"Wind Sorceress" is a throwback to the Mizell Brothers era  highlighted by trumpeter Sid Gould who sounds profoundly similar to late Donald Byrd. Amplified Soul is worth the attention for contemporary jazz fans and this could possibly be one of the group's finest since their 2010 anniversary Transatlantic R.P.M album. Listen to Jazzy 88.9 on Wednesday, August 26 for songs from the album "Amplified Soul."
 

Robert Trent Newell - Broadcast Support Services Manager