JazzTimes (p.91) - "Benoit digs into classic jazz with Dave Brubeck's 'Blue Rondo a la Turk' and Horace Silver's 'Song for My Father.' He absolutely swings on Bill Evans' 'Waltz for Debbie'..."
Personnel: David Benoit (piano, synthesizer); Jamey Tate (drums); Brad Dutz (percussion).
Recording information: Paramount Studios, Hollywood, CA (2007).
A melodic wizard of piano and assorted keyboards, David Benoit is a pioneer of contemporary and smooth jazz styles, specializing in cool, bright musical panoramas. With HEROES, Benoit pays tribute to the musical figures who inspired him, from Elton John and the Beatles to Horace Silver and Dave Brubeck. The small group accompaniment gives this set an intimate vibe, in which everyone gets to express the muse while maintaining the groove. Benoit's playing is lyrical and elegant throughout, caressing the melodies while still opening up these great tunes, taking them to places they've never been.