Spellbound by Joe Sample

Spellbound by Joe Sample – !!!!

With Jazz especially, words cannot adequately describe or express the creative exchange of vibes. Still, I’ll give it a shot. Joe Sample’s Spellbound is Winter for me, but not cold. It actually provides warmth, comfort, and hope for Baydestrians as we navigate January. It’s a way to stay focused, proud and confident while I anxiously await the Spring thaw.

Although Joe is from Houston, he moved to Los Angeles in 1960 with his Hard Bop crew the Jazz Crusaders. They had a profound impact on Jazz scene over the next three decades both as a band then individually as session players. They contributed to countless other classic productions from the likes of Herb Alpert, Marvin Gaye, Joni Mitchell, B.B. King, Steely Dan, George Duke, David T. Walker, Anita Baker, George Benson and many, many more.

I highly recommend this album as one of his standout pieces. It features a balance of smooth, funk, easy and uptempo. There’s a track to reinforce or influence any mood. I promise a listen here will make your day.