'An Evening of Rhythm Romance [Blu-ray]'
(Kenny G / Blu ray / NR / 2009 / Eagle Rock)
Overview: This concert from 2008 sees Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Kenny G performing a selection of original songs and smooth jazz classics. Tied in to support his studio album RHYTHM AND ROMANCE, the set has a distinctly Latin flavour; a genre well-known for its seductive rhythms.
Blu ray Verdict: Born Kenneth Bruce Gorelick (come on now, did you ever know what 'G stood for?!), is obviously better known by his stage name Kenny G and is a Grammy winning American saxophonist. Here, on `An Evening of Rhythm & Romance' (filmed late in 2008 at the wonderful Humphreys By The Bay in San Diego), it also serves as a wonderful partner to his just-released studio album, `Rhythm & Romance'.
Now, we all have heard the thoughts of others about how 'G's music is only good for elevators (hey, don't knock steady work!), and sure here tonight there really isn't a lot in the way of power plays, but there is romance in the air.
That said, Kenny G winking whilst playing is kinda creepy!
Anyway, some of the 16 tracks played here are classics such as `Havana,' `G-Bop,' and `Songbird'. Cover versions of James Blunt's `You're Beautiful', Louis Armstrong's `What A Wonderful World' and the Average White Band's `Pick Up The Pieces' are also included.
As for the overflowing wealth of extras, well, Kenny G himself spends a couple of minutes Introducing the Show; which is followed by a 13 minute interview with the man himself! The 'Earlier in the Morning' montage runs just over 5 minutes, but basically features a lot of shots of boats! Oh, and some quick rehearsal footage of "Deck the Halls" and "Santa Claus is Coming to Town." And speaking of Christmas, the bonus tracks are: "Deck the Halls/12 Days of Christmas," "Dreaming of a White Christmas," and "Santa Claus is Coming to Town."
This is a Full Screen Presentation (1.33:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs.
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