The ten songs on the cd were composed alternately by bassist Mark Saltman and pianist William Knowles and have a fresh, contemporary jazz feel about them with a hint of Latin grooves lurking throughout. Lori Williams vocals are sensuous and romantic: her clarity of annunciation skillfully brings out the irony of the lyrics in “The Joke's On Me", and the wistful spirit of “My Secret Lullaby". Ms. Williams' warm and inviting stylings are particularly evident on “What About April", which is already getting significant airplay around the country. Charles Langford's sax work is thoughtful and laid back. His lines deftly shadow the vocals and add counterpoint to Knowles' piano work, while drummer Mark Prince plays tasteful grooves that pull the entire effort together.
Reviewers have described The Saltman/Knowles Quintet as “rhythmically infectious" and “colorful", and have mentioned the band always “has the whole house swinging." Saltman and Knowles concur that “we want to be musically challenging ... but entertaining as well."
The Saltman/Knowles Quintet has superbly melded together the three main elements that make a great musical experience: good writing, good musicianship, and good lyrics. “It's About the Melody" is just that and more.
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