Jan. 26, 2012

This Valentine’s Day will be just a little more special and romantic as The Whalum brothers set out to give us a new reason to love love. Sax giant Kirk Whalum, in the role of the great John Coltrane, brings in a trusted ally — brother/vocalist Kevin — who assumes the role of Johnny Hartman in a recreation of the memorable 1963 duet recording of those two seminal artists. The release is entitled Romance Language, and it will be released on that always wonderful day of the year, Feb. 14.

Combining the six Coltrane/Hartman compositions with some modern ballads, the love rose should be in full bloom for all romantics who listen to this alluring material.

The project is produced by Kirk Whalum and John Stoddart and is practically guaranteed to catch you up in the moment and simply sweep you away in splendor.

Accompanying the seductive sax of Kirk and the mesmerizing vocals of Kevin are keyboardist/ producer John Stoddart, vocalist and uncle Hugh “Peanuts” Whalum,  George Tidwell on flugelhorn and trumpet, Braylon Lacy on bass, Kevin Turner on electric guitar, Michael “Nomad” Ripoll on acoustic guitar, organist Ralph Lofton, drummer Marcus Finnie, and percussionists Bashiri Johnson and Javier Solis. Each artist brings through the Spring of life—even in February—and the all-encompassing vibe of love on each precious track. As tributes to the greats go, these guys have surely made Coltrane and Hartman proud.

Magically phrased pieces like “Dedicated to You,” “My One and Only Love” with its bluesy flair, the jazz-and-cocktails caress of “Lush Life,” and the subtle Brazilian flair of “Autumn Serenade” simply must be witnessed firsthand to understand fully the velvety kiss they carry. Ah, romantic jazz has no equal.

One of the most outstanding tracks is the emotionally charged “Almost Doesn’t Count” rendered by the greatly talented 83-year-old “Uncle Peanuts” and his savory vocals. “Wow” should cover that.

We are also treated to the contemporary magnetism of the Whalum touch with tracks like the sweet and smooth “You Are Too Beautiful,” which adds the pronounced beat of Finnie’s drums to Kirk’s and Kevin’s efforts. Then, there’s the splendid, moving cover of Heather Headley’s “I Wish I Wasn’t,” Joe’s “I Wanna Know,” and Eric Benet’s silky “Spend My Life With You.”

Is this an album speaking the true language of love? Is a rainy day lounging about with your loved one dreamy and ideal? Is the smell of freshly blossoming roses tantalizing? You have your answer. Romance Language will set a marvelous tone this Valentine’s Day. Treat somebody. – Ronald Jackson