Art Porter: Lay Your Hands On Me: CD

Saxophonist Art Porter passed away shortly after the release of this excellent album, "Lay Your Hands on Me." It's a shame, because on this outing, Art finally was able to evolve from the classy but staid production of Jeff Lorber to a more contemporary sound, a process started on the excellent "Undercover" (1994) but not fully realized until this album. "Lay Your Hands on Me" is a delight, featuring production by Chuckii Booker and Brian McKinight and guest vocals from McKnight and Lalah Hathaway, soulful arrangements and Art's distinctive funky improvisations. Each track merits a listen, because they are all beautiful. My favorite song from "Lay Your Hands on Me" is "We Are One," a Booker-produced track that combines the best elements of both artists' styles. If you want a good contemporary jazz album that doesn't leave you guessing who did it halfway through, this is it. CONDITION: (SEE AVAILABLE OPTIONS AND PRICING) LABEL: VERVE RECORDS CATALOG: 314 533 119-2 MATRIX: 314 533 119