www.jazzreview.com/article/review-6578.html -
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Published on: 11/27/2008
Last Visited: 11/27/2008
This current Soul Express lineup (the third installment to date) consisted of British-born exceptional guitarist Chris Standring, accomplished saxophonist Everette Harp, and the incomparable vocalist Phil Perry.
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Chris Standring got the show off to a flying start with an inspired rendition of "Groovalicious."
Standing near the front edge of the stage he put on a guitar display of artistic excellence as he played the melody over a funky bass line.
Combining the impeccable jazz technique of George Benson with a soulful "feel" comparable to Stax Records legend Steve Cropper, Standring brought the best of both worlds to the table.
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Chris introduced the next song, with his thick London accent, as the pick to be the next single from his currently very popular (rightly so) Love and Paragraphs CD.
"Have Your Cake And Eat It," was its title, and it was a beautifully breezy mid-tempo song containing a lovely melody that could reach the very top of the smooth jazz charts.
The tune was a prime example of the kind of song that Chris Standring writes which endear him to audiences everywhere.
The entire band deserved kudos for their exhilarating performances.
They took the song to a higher ground, making it one of the many highlights of the night.
The highly recognizable smooth jazz radio hit "Love & Paragraphs" came next; after an explanation from Chris as to how he arrived at the title.
It was a huge crowd favorite and another supreme effort from his bandmates, as they embraced its catchy hooks and rich, velvety smooth grooves.
After it's conclusion, Chris called out Everette Harp to assist him on "Pins And Needles" from his Hip Sway CD and together they provided some very nice instrumental interplay on the funky number which contained a retro-soul feel and showcased both artists profound soul aptitude.
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Standring left the stage and Everette Harp began his set with a jamming performance of "Holla," from his In The Moment album.
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Everette Harp replaced Standring on stage for Perry's version of Aretha Franklin's "Call Me." On the song that was a number one record for him, Perry begs and pleads for his lady to call him, with spectacular impassioned pleas.
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Standring then returned to join everyone in a standout performance of Christopher Cross's "Ride Like The Wind," another song culled from A Mighty Love.