Roger Smith - My Colors (1995)

My Colors is a relentlessly energetic, try-to-sit-still smooth jazz extravaganza. Originally released in 1995 and nominated for two Grammys, this album demonstrates the versatility that has marked Roger Smith's 30-year career and also shows why many consider him to be the master of the jazz keyboard. Beginning with a not-to-be-missed cover of George Dukes Mrs. Wiggle, My Colors continues into a tasty excursion in groove that will not disappoint.

How appropriate that Roger Smith chose to lead his relentlessly energetic, try-to-sit-still extravaganza My Colors with a slamming cover of George Duke's Miss Wiggle, because the keyboardist perfectly captures all the jazz/funk blessings of Duke... The first half of his tasty excursion in groove is a house music dance party with jazz chops even bebop purists can appreciate. Michael Paulo adds a graceful touch to a smooth cover of Jam & Lewis Can You Stand the Rain... We're talking the emergence of a potential jack of all trades monster performer... An exciting discovery. ---All Music Guide

Keyboardist Roger Smith couches his reverence for the classics in a mostly progressive setting on My Colors. Starting with the romp Miss Wiggle (So What!), which threads George Duke and Miles Davis compositions with a whacking percussion section and an undertone of party noise, Smith fills his album with unexpected combinations. While Fallin' Behind pits Smith's fleet-fingered, spiraling piano work against piercing guitar stingers and a busy funk background, Hopscotch offers deep, grimy distortion bass against a classy, straight up sax melody and piano chordings... ---JazzTimes