Kenny G: Live at Montreux 1986/1987

Live at Montreux compiles two Swiss engagements featuring saxophone player Kenny G. On the first set, from 1987's titular festival, the smooth jazz artist receives backing from guitarist John Raymond, bassist Vail Johnson, keyboard players Robert Damper and Andre Montague, drummer Kenny McDougald, and percussionist Tony Gable. On tour in support of Kenny G's fourth album, 1986's multi-platinum Duotones, the group conjures up an easy, breezy feel—upbeat fusion in the style of Chuck Mangione and Grover Washington Jr. The first song, "Diane," even sounds a little like Michael Jackson's "Rock with You." Kenny, who began his career as a sideman with Barry White and Jeff Lorber, doesn't hog the spotlight here, letting his band mates solo on a few tracks, including Gable's brother Montague, who adds vocals to the Junior Walker cover "What Does it Take (To Win Your Love)," and pianist George Duke, who guests on "Champagne." Kenny G returned to Montreux the following year with a quartet, prior to the release of 1988's Silhouette. This set repeats three tracks from the previous date, while adding the ballad "Pastel.” Throughout both performances, he alternates between an alto and a soprano sax. Since his emergence as a solo artist in the 1980s, critics have taken Kenny G to task for his undemanding music. While that's a valid claim, these dates showcase a consummate professional working hard, having fun, and eliciting an enthusiastic response, especially for the hit single "Songbird," as well as his walk through the crowd during "Tribeca." Presented in DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo, this is recommended. (K. Fennessy)