Post Description

We need another hero. After Wes Montgomery and George Benson Ronny Smith epitomizes the culture of jazz guitar music. After his albums Long Time Comin (2001), Laid Back (2002), Got Groove (2006) and Simply Stated (2007) he honored us with his new album Just Groovin (2009), scheduled to release on May 19, 2009.

On his new project Ronny is joined by Vernell Mincey (drums), Tony Whitfield (bass), Alan Alexander (keys), Scott Martin (sax), Stan Martin (trumpet), Andy Martin (trombone), and Karl McNeil (bass). With the exception of two covers Rony has composed all tracks on his new album.

Stevie Wonder's Superstition (1972) is a landmark in music history. Stevie wrote this tune for his album Talking Book album. The song is immediately recognizable for its notably funky clavinet riff which is extensively presented by Alan Alexander on Ronny's rendition. Ronny himself encompasses the melody with a fierce guitar performance.

The title song Just Groovin has a fantastic flow and is well supported by the Martin horns. The Martin Brothers have recorded for artists and producers such as Quincy Jones, Barry Manilow, Ray Charles and many, many others. Abundant joy and a commitment to groove is the message of all musicians.

I'm Beside You is Ronny's personal gesture of gratutude. "I'm very thankful for the blessing to have the opportunity and the skills and the equipment to write and perform music. I'm not much of a person with words so I demonstrate my thanks through my songs. I'm always reminded that I'm not alone when facing challenges and very thankful when I'm overcoming them."

Sometimes tunes are created by just fooling around. Groove 106 is an example for it. Titled after its metronome setting at 106 beats per minute. Music is in the air.

Finally Ronny decided to add a Bossa Nova, the Blue Bossa. Composed by Kenny Dorham this song was prominently featured on Joe Henderson's Page One and became soon a jazz standard. "I play this piece so much that I really wanted to do something different with it. The challenge was how to make it different. So I thought Rio again but ended up, I think, in Puerto Rico with a subdued groove, " comments Ronny.

With his new album Just Groovin Ronny Smith is on the best way to become a guitar hero stepping out the shadow of Wes Montgomery.

Tracklist:

01. Here We Go Again (4:14)
02. Smooth (4:20)
03. Superstition (4:29)
04. 95 Drive (3:42)
05. Just Groovin (4:16)
06. I'm Beside You (4:30)
07. Groove 106 (4:15)
08. Forever Friends (4:03)
09. Ticket to Miami (3:55)
10. Blue Bossa (3:26)