Adrian Conington - Solsonata (2005)

Adrian Conington first came to the attention of Smooth Jazz Therapy in October 2005 while playing keyboard for Peter White at London’s Pizza Express. At that time his 2004 debut release ‘Sacred Roots’ was already well established as a quality piece of UK smooth jazz and ‘Storm In Manhattan’, the track from it that he featured as part of Whites show, really gave the audience a flavor of what the entire collection is all about. Now Conington is back with his follow up ‘Solsonata’. It’s a CD that demonstrates a growing confidence and maturity in his work. As with ‘Sacred Roots’, Conington has written, arranged and produced all ten tracks and, with a style that is more Benoit than Culbertson, his light sophistication and most gentle of touches is a formula for music that is both relaxing and in the groove.

One thing special about ‘Sacred Roots’ is its consistent quality. Opening with the laid back yet funky ‘Storm In Manhattan’ there is scarcely a disappointment throughout and Conington maintains these high standards with ‘Solsonata’. He is never bland and although ‘Solsonata’ includes its share of delicate and romantic tunes Conington often infuses them with a little attitude and a little funk. This is typified with ‘Rise Up And Follow’. It starts gently then rolls along on a compelling slow to mid tempo beat while ‘Breeze On’ has a mellow rhythm to which Conington’s production skill adds a killer edge. The up-tempo, up front and funky ‘Spirit Of The City’ has the scent of Bob James about it and the James influence is also evident on the classy mid tempo ‘Only In Dream’. The nimble playing of Conington combined with backing reminiscent of ‘The Hustle’ makes ‘The Player’ a real mover while the title track, tucked away at the end of the album, starts off slowly but quickly gets into its kicking smooth jazz stride before finally fading back into its tranquil beginnings.

Both ‘Sacred Roots’ and ‘Solsonata’ are albums worth checking out. They confirm Adrian Conington as a welcome addition to the British smooth jazz scene.