Customer Reviews

Body & Soul

5 star:		(13)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Rick Braun's "Body and Soul" is, simply put, one of the most "delicious" cd's I currently have in my collection.The entire disc is subtle, low-key and in it's own fashion extremely elegant. While catching flack for being a "smooth jazz" artist Mr. Braun shows his unique talents in this collection, not just by his gift of melody, but by making each song as distinctive as the previous. His phrasing is at once gentle, hesitant and beautifully restraind. Which is something that,when pertaining to the "smooth jazz" genre, can be difficult to find ( Boney James, can you hear me? ). I'm aware some jazz purists may have difficulty with this style of jazz (and yes, it is jazz!) but Rick Braun's mellow horn reminds me so very much of an early Miles. .. I'm referring to his "Birth of the Cool" and "Kinda Blue" discs. I'm aware some may read that last sentence and shake their fists at my remarks for my comparisons but there it is! Blashemy...I'm sure! Nevertheless, the disc does hold some pleasant surprises, for me that being "Chelsea" and "Hymn For Her" plus a reputable rendition of "Body And Soul". Listening to the entire disc one finds that each selection works extremely well with the previous so when judged in it's entirety it truly does flow together very nicely.

I tend to listen to this cd while home alone, with a favorite bottle of wine and one or two pleasant memories to get me through the evening. You really shouldn't ask more than that of any piece of music. Overall, this entire cd is almost hypnotic in it's beauty and simplicity...and for that, I truly repect any artist who manages that feat. In the end, a disc definitely worth having and enjoying at your leisure.

This CD is the perfect background for either a Sunday afternoon BBQ with some good friends, or a sultry night in front of the fireplace with a glass of wine and a special someone.... Smooth and sophisticated, Rick Braun's playing makes "trumpet jazz" cool again.... "Hymn for Her" STILL gives me goosebumps every time I listen to it - truly haunting and enchanting....

This album is very smooth and sensual. From the first track to the last there is nothing quite so wonderful to listen to as Rick Braun in this kind of mood.

Highly recommended!

Purchased this album because of the great Album cover, was I surprised when I popped it into my CD player. I hadn't heard of Rick Braun before but after listening to this CD, I ran out and purchased everything he has ever recorded. Never have I heard a trumpet sound so beautiful. Share this music with someone you love.

Notorious was the song that attracted me to buy the album after hearing it on Smooth Jazz 98.1 FM This track was indeed the most sensual song my ears have had the pleasure to endure. The rest of alubm is indeed a 5 star review in my book. I was fortunate to catch him in concert as well.

Amazingly, Mr. Braun makes the TRUMPET sound as sexy as the saxiphone. Light some candles, pour yourselves a glass of wine and pop in Body & Soul. This CD is going to make you perpetually LUCKY!

This is Rick Braun's best smooth jazz cd to date. Each song is satisfying and complete. And what a who's who of artists that contribute! Boney James, Peter White, Chris Standring, Jeff Golub, and Marc Antoine to name a few! Very inspired throughout, it is hot and infectious!

Rick Braun's "Body and Soul" is one of the best smooth jazz albums ever recorded. Smoky, sensual, and restrained, Braun's muted trumpet is the centerpiece of an eclectic mix of sounds ranging from funky to romantic. His technical expertise is amazing, and Braun is light years ahead of Chris Botti. If you love the trumpet, and you're a lover of smooth jazz, buy this CD. It's an essential purchase from a musician who is vastly underrated. Five stars and highly recommended!

I highly recommend this CD. Such exquisite trumpet playing is sure to touch your soul, soothe your body, and put you in touch with your mind and spirit. Consider yourself blessed to be touched by someone with this much talent.

For an evening with that special someone, this is the best cd to get you in the right mood. Enough said.