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LOUNGE SWEET: Stolen Moments

Lounge Sweet is an experienced collective of ‘far north’ jazz musicians who perform in any number of configurations, but always with the constant presence of transplanted American sax player and band leader Reese Helmondollar. What they deal in is a brand of smooth jazz that draws from a wide variety of 20th century composers and the credits on this, their first album, include tunes from jazz greats such as Davis, Monk, Adderley and Coltrane. The result is a mellow, laid back Sunday afternoon vibe that barely raises a sweat yet manages to highlight the skill and competence with which each musician approaches their craft. Drummer Matt Hennessy and bassist John Fraser put down a groove that swings easily as it lays the foundation for Helmondollar, guitarist John Costa and pianist Barry Wilcox to arrange their solos over the top. As an ensemble Lounge Sweet work well showing a subtle understanding of each other’s role and although there is nothing new or original in what they do, there is enough here to make ‘Stolen Moments’ a success on its own terms.

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