Customer Reviews

"Grover Washington, Jr. - Prime Cuts: The Greatest Hits 1987-1999"

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One of the founding fathers of the "smooth jazz" genre, pioneering the blending of jazz with pop and R&B elements, Grover Wsahington consistently produced work of a high order: strong choice in material, enticing arrangements, and rich, soulful saxophone work. This collection sums up twelve years with Columbia Records neatly but thoroughlly.

His takes on classics were always exciting, and Washington breathing new life into Dave Brubeck's "Take Five" and the standard "Please Send Me Someone to Love" are no exceptions. But even the newer compositions sounded timeless, whether it was the sensual rhythmic vibe of "Only for You (Siempre Para Ti Sere)," the head-bobbing infectiousness of "Soulful Strut," or the sheer beauty of "Strawberry Moon," a gorgeous composition that has rightfully established itself as a classic smooth jazz cut. And then there's "Sacred Kind of Love," a duet with Phyllis Hyman that is the epitome of bittersweet: it's hard not to wonder, a bit sadly, what Washington and Hyman might have stood to accomplish if they were alive today. Still, hearing them pair up at the height of their artistry is a priceless thrill.

Throw in two tracks recorded especially for this collection before Grover's untimely passing (the slick and inviting "Heat Index" and "The Night Fantastic") and you have a satisfying compilation of one of jazz's most beloved saxophonists. If soul and technique are the meat of musical recordings, these are prime cuts indeed.

Grover was a world class saxophonist, a true legend with extraordinary talent and masterful techniques. He was simply so smooth and will be missed eternally. Much love and respect & Rest in peace Mr. Magic!

A fitting final album from the man who touched us all in Jazz. My first album of any kind was "Wine Light." Grover Washington was such a wonder musician. He will be missed, but his music will live on and continue to influence future players, the way it influenced my own playing.

I am still in absolute shock of Grover's sudden death! I shed tears of sadness for a long time on hearing the sad news...but now I have been able to get back to reality that he is gone with his gifts, his wonderful sax fingerings and blowing techniques, his abilities to jazz-up dried lack-lustre songs and make it alive..This is what this album brings...both old and new especially the "Soulful strut" which was definitely rekindled to be even better than what it was originally! On this track, Grover definitely displays his playing skills....and I like it...very much! For his memory, it is a must for all his fans. You will be missed...the great maestro of contemporary Jazz. May his soul rest in perfect peace!

This album just reaffirms what I already know-Grover is in a class of his own. What made Grover so great is that he was not about ego; he just wanted to put out quality music. Wheter it was traditional or contemporary; Grover played music that just soothed your soul. I use to get angry because I felt Kenny G. got too much recoginition and Grover didn't get enough. Now I realize that Grover probably didn't want that type of fame because it would distract from his art. He wanted respect more so than fame. This collection is great because it shows the diversity of Grover's music and why he was so brillant. The one song that really touched me is "Sacred Kind of Love" with Phyllis Hyman.I have seen them both live and I have albums by both and this song is a testament to their brillance. Unfortunately they both are no longer with us but hopefully their genius will live on.

This album truly reflects what a talented man Grover was. He was absolutely TOP FLIGHT in my book and he will be missed eternally. I cried when I heard that he had passed, but I was happy to know that he had completed another great album for his fans to enjoy. Rest in peace Grover.

Grover Washington Jr was a Class Act.His Music is Timeless&this Set Showcases His Depth&Tone To His Instrument.unlike The Watered Down Junk that gets called Jazz Today I Won't Name Names Because everyone in the Know Knows who it is or Groups.This Music here is Straight from the Soul&Heart.it has Passion&Drive.He Creates Different Styles&Combines them into one.a Must for Fans of True Musicianship&Creativity.

The title calls the collection "Prime Cuts." Buy one and cut a slice for yourself. It's wonderful.

This is an excellent CD. To me the featured tracks are Strawberry Moon and Protect the Dream---superb!

A collection of award winning tracks in the inimitable style that was Grover's unique hall mark. A truely great talent and a benchmark in modern jazz. Once again his passion for truely great music shines through in this celebration of his most vibrant work.

A must for all Grover fans - truely golden !