David Garfield seems to be ramping up the heat before the summer has even started. The prolific keyboardist already released one of the best jazz albums of 2018, Jazz Outside the Box. Now, he is giving a taste of what’s in store next with the single “Stay” from the upcoming Jammin’ Outside the Box. The single, out from Creatchy Records on June 15, 2018, is another fascinating look at Garfield’s Outside the Box series.
This time, the musical offering is rooted in R&B and funk. “Stay,” the classic Rufus song from their Street Player album, is just as muscular as the original. Garfield, ever the casting director, invited more talent along for this offering: Former Rufus drummer Moon Calhoun, who also co-wrote the song with Chaka Khan, delivers a timeless lead vocal while Amanda Maiden, daughter of original Rufus guitarist Tony Maiden, provides the inspired backing vocals.
Once again, David Garfield brings in a horn section that lifts the already stellar song. Doc Kupka of Tower of Power, Eric Marienthal and David Sanborn round out the horns. Groove master Paul Jackson Jr. appears on guitar, along with Vinnie Colaiuta on drums, Freddie Washington on bass and Lenny Castro on congas. Together, they further cement the irresistible groove. The guitar solo by legend George Benson, along with David Sanborn’s alto sax solo takes the solo jam to an unmistakable new high.
Judging from “Stay,” David Garfield may have yet another best-of-2018 release. Unfortunately, we have to wait until July 20 for the rest of Jammin’ Outside the Box to be released.
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