Hybrid Harmony
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
A Las Vegas artist with a penchant for soul jazz, R&B and gospel sounds, Reginald Johnson is in great company here as The Assignment help him flesh out 7 originals and 3 well done covers with Hybrid Harmony.
“I’m Tryin’” gets the album off to a soothing, almost meditative start before expressive female vocals enter the soulful, R&B setting, and “My Mean Ol’ Aunt” follows with a playful spirit that tips its hat to both jazz and funk with lively results.
Later on, the Tears For Fears cover, “Everybody Wants To Rule The World”, recruits vocal scatting in the very atypical and impressive interpretation, while “Prototype” trims the atmosphere back with elegant keys and flawless singing from both Klaiton Johnson and Aja Hawkins.
Closer to the end, “Between Now And Never” puts Julian Tanak’s tenor sax prowess on display in the intricate and agile atmosphere, and “After Service” exits the listen with plenty of grooves amid RJ’s acoustic piano acrobatics which are nothing short of mesmerizing.
This is RJ’s 4th album as bandleader and his best work to date, as Hybrid Harmony delivers one instantly memorable and timeless jazz tune after another. The Tears For Fears remake alone is worth the price of admission.
Travels well with: Matthew Snow- Iridescence; Dave Miller Trio- Just Imagine