The .wav's Essential Music

Below is a list of "Must Own" CDs according to The .wav's Music Director, AC Tones. The list is current as of July 21, 2010, and is subject to change without notice (AC always needs to add a couple he had overlooked each time he updates the website!!). While the list may exclude some big names, The .wav is confident that you will not be disappointed in AC's selections, and each would be a fine addition to anyone's CD collection. You can reveal AC's notes for each album by moving your mouse over the CD cover art (AC's notes are being updated daily and should be complete within a week or two). For more information about the CD, to include track information, availability of new or used copies, mp3 downloads, etc., simply click on the CD artwork of the respective selection.

AC's note: This CD is appropriately titled. 3rd Force's most complete effort, this is 'vital' for any 3rd Force or contemporary jazz fan. Big name guest artists, to include Rick Braun, Peter White, and Craig Chaquico appear and meld perfectly with 3rd Force's unmistakeable vibe. This underrated Canadian group is the model of consistency. I love their sound. 'You Gotta Be Real' is my favorite cut on the CD, and one of my all-time favorites. AC's note: If not for Jazz Cafe's Ted Hasiuk, I never would have discovered Allon Sams. Another underrated Canadian artist. This keyboardist's music is chock full of vibe. Peter White appears on two cuts. 'Feelin' It' is absolutely fabulous!! AC's note: I had the pleasure of meeting and chatting with Andy Neu's manager at Berks in 2009. Andy has a new CD on the way, but he set the bar high with this one. Andy's sophomore release is a dandy!! Accomplished guest artists appear on this CD. An extremely talented saxophonist whose music deserves far more airplay than it gets. AC's note: Dutch musician/vocalist/composer hits a home run with this one. Peter White appears as a guest musician. 'Soaring' is outstanding! Great NAC sound throughout the entire CD. AC's note: Debut album for this Canadian native/guitarist, and arguably his best. I had the pleasure of seeing Brian perform live in 1998 with my wife at Hillebrand Winery in Ontario. Shades of late '80s Pat Metheny, but Brian definitely has his own unique sound and telltale riffs. Over the years, the vibrant 'Deux Cafe' has emerged as my favorite cut on this CD.
3rd Force Allon Sams Andrew Neu Bernard Oattes Brian Hughes
Vital Force A Place In Time In Clear View Rules of My Heart Between Dusk...And Dreaming
(1997) (2001) (2006) (1997) (1990)
AC's note: This by far got the most airplay of any of Brian's releases, and deservedly so. In addition to the vibrant title track, there are a number of cuts that display Brian's talent and versatility as a guitarist and songwriter. But my personal favorite is the haunting 'While The World Slowly Turns,' which for me is not long enough. The 8+ minutes of this cut breezes by and is pure listening enjoyment, and leaves you wanting more. AC's note: Checkfield had a great run in the late 1980s. While some of their music may be a little too 'New Age' for even hardcore contemporary jazz enthusiasts, the San Diego-based duo of Ron Satterfield and John Archer also cut plenty of tunes with great vibe, and this album is no exception. This CD brings back so many good memories for me. For my DC-based listeners, 'Avalon' (my all-time favorite Checkfield cut) made regular appearances on the old 94.7FM Sunday Jazz Brunch. AC's note: Chris does it all. Not only does he make great music, he does all of his own production work and promotion. This CD has been featured prominently on TWC's 'Local on the 8s' segment. There's nothing quite like the sound of a keyboardist with great vibe, and Chris is one of them.
Brian Hughes Checkfield Chris Geith Chris Standring Brian Culbertson
One 2 One Through The Lens Timeless World Soul Express After Hours
(1998) (1988) (2008) (2006) (1996)
Brian Culbertson Brian Culbertson Brian Culbertson Brian Culbertson Dancing Fantasy
It's On Tonight Nice & Slow Secrets Somethin' Bout Love Dancing Fantasy
(2005) (2001) (1997) (1999) (1999)
AC's note: Some hardcore fans of David Lanz' bread and butter 'New Age' sound may disagree, but for me this CD was a refreshing and welcomed departure for him. The CD is loaded with upbeat tunes that display Lanz' versatility and talent as a keyboardist/pianist. If you are looking for vibe, this CD has it. AC's note: Frankly, one of the best albums ever produced. By far my favorite vocal CD of all time. There are only a small handful of the hundreds of CDs I own across a variety of genres that don't have a single throwaway, and this is one of them. Sure, 'IGY' and 'New Frontier' were huge Pop crossover hits and vastly overplayed, but still sound great today. My favorite cut on the CD is the tropical sounding 'Goodbye Look.' Would you pour me a Cuban Breeze!!!!!!!!
Dancing Fantasy Dancing Fantasy David Lanz Donald Fagen Euge Groove
Day Dream Moonlight Reflections The Good Life The Nightfly Livin' Large
(1995) (1992) (2004) (1982) (2004)
AC's note: I have to admit that I stumbled across Jim Adkins in 2008 when I heard a cut off of 'City Streets' play on smoothjazz.com. Intrigued by his sound, I did a little research on him and discovered that Jim had been cranking out great music for some time. My question to terrestrial radio MDs: How did you miss this guy? A Virginia native and resident, Jim Adkins possesses the kind of talent worthy of being mentioned amongst the best guitarists in the genre. His music is that good. AC's note: I had never heard of Jim Adkins prior to 'City Streets.' I really REALLY like 'City Streets,' but I absolutely LOVE 'License To Play.' Too many great cuts on this CD to mention. Suffice it to say, there is a very good reason why this guitarist from southern Virginia has two CDs on my list of essentials.
Fourplay J Michael Verta Jim Adkins Jim Adkins Jimmy Sommers
The Best Of The Phoenix City Streets License to Play 360 Urban Groove
(1997) (1995) (2008) (2004) (2001)
Joe Fuentes Joe Sample Justin Young Gregg Karukas Gregg Karukas
A Good Cup of Joe Ashes To Ashes On The Way Sound Of Emotion Summerhouse
(2001) (1990) (2007) (1991) (1993)
Max Groove Nelson Rangell Peter White Peter White Peter White
Midnight Rain Far Away Day Glow Collection: Limited Edition Confidential
(1988) (2000) (2001) (1996) (2004)
Peter White Quintana & Speer Richard Elliot Richard Elliot Richard Elliot
Perfect Moment Shades Of Shadow Chill Factor Jumpin' Off On The Town
(1998) (1992) (1999) (1997) (1991)
AC's note: This started it all for me. My criteria for great CDs are that they must have great vibe, depth, and diversity, and no CD is more demonstrative of this than this one. My favorite contemporary jazz CD of all time, 'Nocturnal Playground' showcases Russ Freeman's diversity and skill as a guitarist. IMO, Russ Freeman is the Godfather of the guitar synthesizer. No one can play it like Russ, and for me, the sound exemplifies what was great about mid-to-late 80s NAC. AC's note: The Ripps' sophomore release sees the return of saxmen Dave Koz and Brandon Fields, as well as Steve Reid's percussive talent. The CD kicks off with the vibrant 'Morrocco,' where Russ Freeman displays his masterful work on the guitar synthesizer. Nice down-tempo cuts include 'Northern Lights' and radio favorite 'Katrina's Dance.' Depth, diversity, and vibe reign supreme and this CD firmly solidifies The Rippingtons as the hottest contemporary jazz supergroup to come along since Spyro Gyra. AC's note: The Ripps serve notice with their debut effort that they are here to stay. The guest artists could form their own NAC Hall of Fame (Dave Koz, Kenny G, Gregg Karukas, David Benoit). IMO, 'She Likes To Watch' is one of the best tunes the genre has ever produced. This release sparked a run of incredible albums for The Ripps in the late 80s and early 1990s ('Kilimanjaro','Tourist in Paradise','Curves Ahead', and 'Weekend In Monaco'--all of which easily made The .wav's list of essentials). AC's note: Released right in the midst of their spectacular mid-80s to early 1990s run, The Ripps 3rd album was their best. With a scatting appearance from Carl Anderson, 'Tourist In Paradise' is the total package. I am not a huge fan of cover tunes, but Russ' arrangement of Al Green's 'Let's Stay Together' is original and vibrant, and his guitar synthesizer solo is the most mystifying I have ever heard. 'TIP' is a true NAC treasure, and one of the best contemporary jazz CDs ever!!
Richard Elliot Russ Freeman The Rippingtons The Rippingtons The Rippingtons
Soul Embrace Nocturnal Playground Kilimanjaro Moonlighting Tourist In Paradise
(1993) (1985) (1989) (1986) (1989)
AC's note: This CD gives 'Tourist In Paradise' a serious run for its money as my all-time Ripps effort. A number of cuts were TWC regulars, to include the title track, 'Indian Summer', and 'St. Tropez.' The Ripps' vibe always seems to put you in the exact place their signature feline figure on the CD cover art is at the time. While I have never been to Monaco, I can certainly envision driving down a mountainside in a covertible overlooking the waterfront below. AC's note: Steve Cole's debut CD displays both depth and diversity in tempo, which means you get big bang for your buck. From the upbeat 'Say It Again' to the mellow title cut, this CD does not disappoint. A complete effort that never gets old no matter how many times you listen to it. I have had the pleasure of seeing Steve perform live on a number of occasions. He puts on a great show!! AC's note: Warren Hill was due for a complete effort, and this is it. This is his best CD by far since his 1994 release 'Truth,' and deserves serious consideration for contemporary jazz album of the year along with Chris Standring's 'Love And Paragraphs.' The catchy and melodic 'Daydreamer' is my favorite cut here. AC's note: Wow, what can I say about this one? My brother George turned me onto these guys after hearing their music played on Towson University's 89.7FM WTMD during their NAC days in the early 1990s. Once I heard the title track, which kicks off the CD, I knew I was in for a treat. Tremendous NAC vibe throughout, a real sleeper CD! This CD is not easy to find but, like many other OOP NAC classics, can be had for the right price. AC's note: I am a HUGE Brian Hughes fan. But I must admit that initially I was disappointed with 'Shakin Not Stirred,' probably because Brian set the bar very high with 'One2One.' But over time, I have come to appreciate 'Shakin Not Stirred' far more than I did initially. It has great depth, and is arguably Brian's most complete effort, though other CDs possess better individual cuts. While 'For You' got the most airplay and is a nice tune, 'There She Goes' and 'On Moonless Nights' are my favorites.
The Rippingtons Steve Cole Warren Hill Wind Machine Brian Hughes
Weekend In Monaco Stay Awhile La Dolce Vita Voices In The Wind Shakin' Not Stirred
(1992) (1998) (2008) (1991) (1999)
AC's note: My favorite PMG CD of all time, and one of the best contemporary jazz CDs ever cut. I must admit that I cannot call myself a hardcore fan of Pat Metheny. He is immensely talented and has meant so much to this genre over the last three decades. But I don't particularly care for a lot of his synthesizer-heavy music. However, 'Still Life (Talking)' is very easy on my ears. The CD has a very tropical feel to it, and 'Last Train Home' is one of the all time greats. AC's note: For my taste, this CD stacks up quite nicely against Pat's 1987 release 'Still Life (Talking), and has a similar tropical/Brazilian feel. This appears to be one of Pat's most polarizing CDs. Metheny purists blast it for being more of the same and too mainstream for their tastes, while casual Metheny fans like myself think it's fantastic. But there is one thing I will say with confidence. If you are completely new to the genre and are not familiar with PMG, this is not a bad place to start. AC's note: Up until Paul released his Collection CD in 2009, I would have said, 'If you could only buy one Paul Hardcastle/Jazzmasters CD, buy this one.' Regardless of what genre we are talking about, greatest hits CDs in general invariably exclude one or two cuts that got tons of airplay on radio. But not this one. At the time of its release (2000), this CD compiled most if not all of Paul's best work to date. 'Shine' is a fantastic cut where Paul's (then) young son makes an appearance. AC's note: Another one of those CDs that, for me, improved with age. Playing 'Curves Ahead' for the first time was like drinking a fine Cabernet Sauvignon too soon. The tannins were a little firm for my taste, but with time, they softened and the result was a deliciously complex potable wine. Initially it was hard for to appreciate 'Curves Ahead' on the heels of 'TIP' and 'Kilimanjaro.' But the CD has far more depth than I initially gave it credit for (beyond the title cut and 'Aspen'). AC's note: Still my favorite Warren Hill CD, although 'La Dolce Vita' is nipping at its heels. This CD possesses great depth and diversity, and two of my favorite Warren Hill cuts of all time ('Tell Me All Your Secrets' and 'Do You Feel What I'm Feeling'). If you have not seen this Canadian saxophonist perform live, you are in for a real treat. He plays with tremendous energy on stage and can really wail!
Pat Metheny Group Pat Metheny Group Jazzmasters The Rippingtons Warren Hill
Still Life (Talking) Letter From Home The Greatest Hits Curves Ahead Truth
(1987) (1989) (2000) (1991) (1994)
Al Jarreau Joe Sample Michael Franks Michael Franks Jason Carroll
Heart's Horizon Spellbound Blue Pacific Sleeping Gypsy Cool
(1988) (1989) (1990) (1977) (2007)
AC's note: All that and a bag of chips, Aya is more than just a pretty face. I came across this CD when I started building up music for my 'After Hours' program, and I am so glad that I did. With sexy vocals to match the CD cover art, and an infectious vibe, it is very hard not to get sucked in by this CD. By no means is this contemporary jazz, but it would certainly complement your collection and offers a refreshing change of pace. AC's note: The title of this CD says it all. No need for further elaboration. Dave Koz' longtime musical director Brian Simpson breaks out of Dave's shadow in a big way with this one. While many believe 'Above The Clouds' is a better effort, I respectfully disagree. Be sure to go deep on this CD beyond the two overplayed cuts you heard on the radio, and you won't be disappointed!
Chris Standring David Arkenstone Aya Brian Simpson Bob James/David Sanborn
Velvet Chillout Lounge Strange Flower It's All Good Double Vision
(1998) (2009) (2004) (2005) (1986)
Bob James Duncan Millar Michael Tomlinson Nils Jay Soto
Playin' Hooky Dream Your Dream Still Believe Up Close And Personal Mesmerized
(1997) (1998) (1998) (2009) (2009)
Mark Hollingsworth Duncan Millar J Michael Verta Eric Marienthal Earl Klugh
On The Mark Good To Go Time Line Easy Street Soda Fountain Shuffle
(2005) (2001) (1996) (1997) (1985)
AC's note: Close your eyes, and you'd swear you are hearing late 80s Pat Metheny. One of the best CDs to come out in recent memory, David Boswell takes you on a little trip back to the days of 'Still Life (Talking)' and 'Letter From Home' with original cuts and that unmistakeable PMG vibe. Highlights include the title cut, 'Shake and Bake,' and 'Awaken the Gentle Giant.' AC's note: If there is one various artists CD you ABSOLUTELY must own, this is it. One after the other, this is a splendid compilation of classic cuts. If you were to attempt to buy each artist' CD separately, you'd have to take out a second mortgage on your house. Some are rare and very hard to find. My personal favorite here is Brian Tarquin's 'Darlin Darlin Baby,' with Soul Ballet's 'NYC Trip'in' and Torcuato Mariano's 'Ocean Way' close behind. AC's note: Another one of those various artists CDs that can save you TONS of money. Jonathan Cain's 'Elegance On The Catwalk' is an absolute classic, and the CD it came from is OOP, very rare, and quite pricey if you can find it. This compilation does a great job of capturing some of the best (if not the best) cuts from the artists' releases. Simply one of the best contemporary jazz various artists compilations ever put together by a label that has showcased the genre's artists well.
David Boswell Various Artists Chris Standring Patrick Yandall Various Artists
I Like That Rare Requests Vol. 4 Love And Paragraphs Laws Of Groovity Smooth Grooves Vol. 1
(2008) (2004) (2008) (2008) (1999)
Nite Flyte Torcuato Mariano Pieces Of A Dream Everette Harp Gota
Ascension Last Look Acquainted With The Night My Inspiration The Best Of Gota
(1999) (1995) (2001) (2007) (2002)
Michael Sims Steve Baxter Chris Geith Tom Braxton Marcin Nowakowski
Room With A Groove Sugar On The Bone Island Of A Thousand Dreams Endless Highway Better Days
(2003) (2009) (2010) (2009) (2009)