Boston, MA (Top40 Charts/ Girlie Action Media) An alluring collection of romantic R&B ballads and sensual instrumental grooves, Love and Sax was released today, the second contemporary jazz effort from saxophonist Elan Trotman, who wrote or co-wrote eleven songs and produced or co-produced five tracks for the disc. Two singles - the undeniably seductive title track that vacillates in tone and tempo, and the album's lone vocal number, "Midnight Serenade," featuring the sultry voice of Tony Terry - are heating up playlists at two radio formats: smooth jazz and urban adult contemporary.
Although Trotman initially planned to release Love and Sax himself, he recently signed a worldwide deal with the Spectra Jazz label, which will put product in stores shortly. The album showcases Trotman on tenor and soprano sax and flute, and features musical contributions from keyboardist Brian Simpson, flugelhorn player Cindy Bradley and the late bassist Webster Roach.
In addition to having a pair of singles climbing the charts simultaneously, Love and Sax is being supported with a flurry of activities and performances. Last week, Trotman, who was again nominated in the Best Jazz Male category at the upcoming New England Urban Music Awards, performed for an enthusiastic crowd in the Barbados native's adopted hometown, Boston, at Scullers Jazz Club. A music video capturing Trotman and Terry in the studio recording "Midnight Serenade" was posted on YouTube (www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8OBfY-PqjA). Nashville's WFSK-FM will interview Trotman in an Artist of the Week spotlight segment on Thursday (March 10) and he will be interviewed Saturday (March 12) by WCBP-FM in Champaign, Illinois. On March 19, Trotman will play a club gig for Smooth Groove Phoenix Radio with special guest Bronson Arroyo, pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds. Next month, he'll perform at an Easter Seals benefit on April 14 and looking further ahead, catch him at the Martha's Vineyard Jazz Festival on August 8 where he'll be on a bill that includes Nneena Freelon, Antonio Hart and Warren Wolf.
Music reviewers have welcomed the arrival of Love and Sax. Below are some of the highlights.
The Smooth Jazz Ride: "Since Elan Trotman decided to venture away from the beautiful paradise island of Barbados where he honed many of his musical tastes and skills, the talented saxman has wowed and wooed many...The melodies are alluring, soft, and seductive, the hooks unrelenting and memorable. This album casts Trotman in a professional light that should have been there ages ago...Trotman shows here a level of maturity that only comes with exposure, patience, determination, and that true depth of feeling and understanding what it takes...Every track breathes here, from the intro to the title track to the classic 'When I Fall in Love' to the irresistibly steamy and soulfully consuming 'Rain'...The album's loaded with serious melodies and very deliberate, sure-footed expressions of love. In my opinion, it accomplishes its goal. A wonderful effort."
Smooth Jazz Therapy: "It's a collection that further shows off the penchant he has for smooth grooves and is built around his intent to create an atmosphere through his music that is both relaxing and sensuous. With eleven of his own original compositions, one well chosen cover and guest performances from Brian Simpson and the up-coming Cindy Bradley, 'Love And Sax' may well be the vehicle to elevate Trotman into the smooth jazz mainstream."
Smooth Jazz Daily: Barbados born Elan Trotman, composer, performer, teacher and recording artist, pushes himself to the forefront of smooth jazz. He counts Arturo Tappin, Grover Washington Jr. and Kirk Whalum to his roots, but excels with his own unique style...he shows his great talent to compose compelling and affecting songs with sophisticated arrangements like 'Last Dance'...Elan has a particular passion for and commitment to diversity. With Love and Sax, Elan Trotman manages to catch up with the leaders in the smooth jazz genre."
O's Place Jazz Magazine: "Elan serves up a soulful dose of smooth jazz highlighted by warm ballads such as 'When I Fall In Love' punctuated by the deep bass line from Alex Al. But the passion comes from Trotman, who uses alto, tenor and soprano saxophones to deliver a solid dose of romance across thirteen tracks."
Additional information is available at www.elantrotman.com.
