By
Aaron Cowman
Warner Bros. Records
Grade: B
Jazz quartet Fourplay's newest release, Yes, Please! is a pleasant contribution to today's modern jazz market.
Comprised of pianist Bob James, guitarist Larry Carlton, drummer Harvey Mason, and bassist/vocalist Nathan East, Fourplay combines classic jazz, soft rock and smooth R&B on their seventh album.
True to the band's suggestive name, any of the songs on this album could set the seductive mood - or just create a peaceful environment for relaxation. Although mainly filled with stirring instrumentals, the few vocal tracks on Yes, Please! are equally appealing.
The first single off the album, "Robo Bop," has a smooth urban jazz sound with a bit of pop to it. "A Little Fourplay," with guest singer Sherree, is strikingly melodic, and "Go With Your Heart" is so tranquil it could almost put the listener into a trance.
The other tracks follow this basic scheme of cool, light sounds with a tinge of style and beat.
Separately, the four members of the band have their own independent record careers, including Carlton, who has received two Grammys for his contribitions to movie soundtracks, and James, who has appeared as a guest artist on over 100 records.
When it comes to good jazz, Fourplay delivers with Yes, Please!. Their self-titled debut album went gold when it was released in 1991, and the group could very well follow suit with its latest endeavor.
