Nelson Rangell - Turning Night into Day
Obviously, there is no shortage of sax players in smooth jazz genre. However, Denver, CO native Nelson Rangell dares to differ, as he's one of a few artists that authentically challenges the much needed transformation in diversity as he surpasses his peers with an inimitable voice that’s compelling in spirit. Notably, he humbly accomplished this mission on his 1997 release, “Turning Night into Day” on GRP Records.
“Starting Now,” as the lead cut spins with the excitement of new a beginning, a journey, an expedition that establishes his presence without limits. With his head slightly tilted to the left, he leans back and blows with grace in a voice of an enchanting spirit and style reminisced of a guy named Sanborn.
The down tempo groove of the title track “Turning Night into Day” is captivating in a sense as it echoes with swaying tonality and rhythmic textures are within the context of flawless yet tantalizing beats and the flavor it possesses. Nelson’s pursuit in creating passionate music is persevered by the breathe taking Metheny like composition “The Journey,” features Nelson on “piccolo” and the exceptional Howard Levy on harmonica.
Enclosed within the internal and external variety expressed on first three tracks alone unveils the heart and soul of this artist. Wow, it’s hard to believe it’s been a little over ten years ago and this recording is still significant on this day. Up next, the upbeat sounds of “All For Song,” swings with alternating pulse and radio friendly hooks are bound to keep your head swaying and bopping. What a player, Nelson can make his horn squall with enthusiasm as his enduring qualities without question prevails beyond the genre he resides in.
At the heart of his modest collection is the fabric of genuine music that emphasizes the romantic side of his voice. First up, is the essence of pop ingredients is layered beneath and above the surface on the gorgeous “For The Rest of My Life.” While detained in somewhat of a relaxed mode I found myself suspended by the soulful musings of Nelson’s stimulating horn on “Romantique.” Additionally, the riches of “April Snow” appear and to make it’s reflective statement featuring Nelson on flute. In his own unique way, he draws you into a peaceful place so you may embrace and revere his music on these and other selections.
Now, for those of you who love to jam, will there’s “Godzilla.” Yeah, this track is hot! Rangell handles his business in the funk department on this piece, he calls bassist Mel Brown to reinforce the groove by kicking it into overdrive as it shakes, shimmers and swings like nobodies business! “From Spark to Flame,” compositionally is a little illusive at the beginning as it starts out with strings. However, it quickly turns into a tasty little gem that’s attached with the harmonies and melodies of mid-tempo octaves. And just around the corner is the convincing “All Hearts, One Heart” makes it’s case as being a memorable composition is co-written by Chuck Loeb and Rangell. While still in the mood, the writing duo of Loeb and Rangell pen the bouncy “Today’s Top Story.”
Finally, the gifted Nelson and the gang conclude this mesmerizing journey with a Latin infused composition co-written by keyboardist Michael Bearden and Rangell titled La Repuesta (The Answer). As you can tell, I really adore this project mainly because it contains the core of his persona, voice, style without compromising his integrity as an artist. “Turning Night into Day,” may or not be a defining moment in his career but I find this an attractive album that is creative, sensitive, accessible and deserves repeated listens.
Track Listing:
1. Starting Now
2. Turning Night into Day
3. The Journey
4. For The Rest of My Life
5. Romantique
6. Godzilla
7. From Spark to Flame
8. April Snow
9. All Hearts, One Heart
10. Today’s Top Story’
11. La Repuesta (The Answer)
J Desmond
The Urban Music Scene
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