
The set really does get into your face with such joviality that it cannot be ignored or dismissed. The superb opening track is called “Sometimes”, the summery vibe and soulful female lead is passionate and tinged with glee. This is a track that would be perfect for a hot summer's day (something we singularly lacked this year!) Lovers of Mojazz should connect with many songs; the guitar work reminds me of a bluesier George Benson / Norman Brown and the male vocals courtesy of the wonderful Hamish Stewart, even the horns are reminiscent of Jerry Hey at his best. What a mixture! “Star” is an instant winner for me, the flute and Benson-ish guitar win out here, and the Incognito-ish “Satisfied” adds more positivity to the proceedings. This is one CD that bases itself on hope, positivity and optimism. It radiates warmth, and the rhodes and soulful vocals do nothing but solidify my deep appreciation for what the collective are about.
am reminded of a jazzier, more lose Impromp2 with “Hey, Listen Up”. The dreamy keys and warm guitar are nothing less than sublime. I will definitely be dragging this track out whenever the suntan lotion needs to be slapped on next summer. “Treading Water” is a song with interesting lyrics. The situation being addressed suggests stagnation in an affair but the positivity and energetic rhythm along with some clever song writing exude positive state of mind and looking at life from a different – and lighter – perspective. At least by treading water one is not sinking! “Beautiful Day” speaks for itself, but the set closes on a very poignant note with the thoughtful, yet not barren, reading of the world today and all the troubles we all face. This is what I call a wholesome, holistic approach to music. The Allstar Collective are their own thing, and they have proved to be more than worthy of inclusion in my collection.