Piano virtuoso Gail Johnson’s stunning reimagination of "Expansions" celebrates the 50th anniversary of Lonnie Liston Smith releasing his groundbreaking epic classic. His revolutionary fusion of jazz-funk & soul with a cosmic message was hailed as an instant classic when released in 1975. Since then after being adopted across diverse dance music genres it has become an anthem of anthems.
Gail grew up listening to Lonnie’s music on Quiet Storm radio in Philadephida. After attending his concerts she began jamming with the great man and they became friends. Now based in Los Angeles and leader of all female jazz outfit Jazz In Pink she came up with the idea of paying homage to and reinventing "Expansions".
'I decide to cover one of his many compositions and "Expansions" spoke to my spirit. As a smooth jazz artist I was able to slow the tempo down and reharmonise some of the chord voicings and play his vocal melodies as a piano lead. The bass line is infectious and carries the groove, accompanied by a four on the floor beat, a little wah guitar and the reimagining began…'
Covering a song as sacred as "Expansions" could be regarded as heresy but when it is recreated with such reverence as this it simply adds to the legend.
On the flip she turns her attention to "Glow", off the same LLS LP. A smoooooth as you like jazz-funk / lounge number with sublime piano, vibes and guitar interplay.
Simple unmissable!
Gail grew up listening to Lonnie’s music on Quiet Storm radio in Philadephida. After attending his concerts she began jamming with the great man and they became friends. Now based in Los Angeles and leader of all female jazz outfit Jazz In Pink she came up with the idea of paying homage to and reinventing "Expansions".
'I decide to cover one of his many compositions and "Expansions" spoke to my spirit. As a smooth jazz artist I was able to slow the tempo down and reharmonise some of the chord voicings and play his vocal melodies as a piano lead. The bass line is infectious and carries the groove, accompanied by a four on the floor beat, a little wah guitar and the reimagining began…'
Covering a song as sacred as "Expansions" could be regarded as heresy but when it is recreated with such reverence as this it simply adds to the legend.
On the flip she turns her attention to "Glow", off the same LLS LP. A smoooooth as you like jazz-funk / lounge number with sublime piano, vibes and guitar interplay.
Simple unmissable!
STAFF COMMENTS
Matt says: Two Lonnie Liston Smith tracks are covered by Jazz In Pink in fabulous style. "Expansions" has a hint of house to it (making it a perfect crossover tracks for the dee-jay); while is pure, feel-good jazz-funk with slight lounge moods.TRACK LISTING
A. Expansions
B. Glow