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Jazz Guitarist Russ Freeman Celebrates New Peak
06/18/2004 8:02 PM, Reuters
Dan Ouellette
When smooth jazz guitarist Russ
Freeman formed Peak Records in 1994, he sought to provide a
home for contemporary jazz musicians.
A decade later, Peak sports an impressive roster that
includes Freeman's smooth jazz pioneers the Rippingtons, the
Braxton Brothers and saxophonists Gato Barbieri, Paul Taylor
and Eric Marienthal.
"We wanted to combine business acumen with musical
artistry," says Freeman, who launched the label with his
manager, Andi Howard. "We felt that having a musician involved
with a label was a good thing for nurturing a culture of
creativity."
A release on the horizon is vocalist Regina Belle's "Lazy
Afternoon," produced by George Duke (July 13). After previous
distribution deals with GRP and Windham Hill/BMG, Peak has been
linked with Concord Records since 2000.
While Peak is celebrating its 10th anniversary, Freeman
observes the 10-year reunion of his duo project with David
Benoit. The pianist was also a founding member of the
Rippingtons and has recently joined the Peak roster.
Smooth-toned and melody-driven "The Benoit/Freeman Project
2," is the long-awaited sequel to 1994's "The Benoit/Freeman
Project." It arrives June 22.
"Ever since we recorded the first album, fans all over the
world have been asking for a follow-up," Freeman says. "Our
schedules made it impossible until recently."
The CD boasts a stripped-down, largely acoustic sound
embellished by Benoit's orchestral arrangements. Guests include
trumpeter Chris Botti and a surprise appearance by country star
Vince Gill , who delivers Al Anderson 's "Two Survivors" with a
bossa-nova feel.
"We were recording the strings in Nashville so we decided
to call Vince," Freeman says. "He was intrigued by trying
something different."
Even though Freeman knew Benoit's contract with Verve was
up for renewal, he had no ulterior motives in doing the duo
project. He says they recorded the album based on their long
history of working together.
"Of course, I had my fingers crossed," Freeman says.
"Ultimately it came down to Peak being able to offer David
support for all his other efforts, including
orchestral/classical works and a children's album."
Reuters/Billboard
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