The Braxton Brothers - Rollin' (2004)

The Braxton Brothers are Rollin' on their second recording for Peak Records. The set is a vivid, upbeat, feel-good collection of 11 songs featuring Wayne Braxton on saxophones, keyboards, drum programming, and even vocals, while Nelson Braxton plays acoustic guitar, keyboards, piccolo bass, electric guitar, electric bass, and programs drums on the set. Unlike their previous 2002 release, Both Sides, Rollin' focuses more on the twins' dexterity on their instruments; it's more upbeat, positive, and confident, and features more songs co-written by the pair than on any of their previous recordings. In stylistic terms, it's a fusion of old-school and new school funk with a jazz groove. Special mention goes to "When You Touch Me," a soulful strut of a funk party with layered horn lines, a hand-clapping beat, and sections where Nelson Braxton jams on lead bass. Their radio hit, "Don't Stop," features the twins on saxophone and bass, while the title track spotlights Wayne Braxton on wah-wah sax and Hammond B3 organ. Overall, their "twin ESP" and funky improvisations on solid contemporary jazz tunes makes Rollin' their best recording yet.