 Get
ready to get your groove on! Eric Darius’ latest
release, and debut CD on Narada Jazz, is about to hit the
streets. Just Getting Started is
a terrific follow-up to his successful Night
on the Town and continues with his signature
sound of upbeat and funky tunes, flowing melodies, and pure
fun. His talent is boundless and from the first note,
Eric continues to prove that he is here for the long haul.
The CD opens up with the kickin’ track, “Steppin’ Up.” Eric’s
sax is playful and the tune never stops. The pace is
relentless. "Chillin' Out" is
cool and sexy. Next up is “Secret Soul.” A
great blend of piano and sax give this quite a romantic,
but again playful, sound. Eric’s personality
just shines through his sax voice.
Now is time to officially get your “Groove
On.” This
track is powerful, fun, and totally beat driven. The
sax is powerful with a lot of improvisation. My personal
favorite is “Back At Cha.” This song is
truly fluid, melodic and groovy. It’s one of
those tunes that make you close your eyes and really listen
hard. For a slow, introspective groove, listen to “Right
Here, Right Now.” It’s a classic mellow
sax voice for kicking back. "Got It Goin' On" carries
on the theme of funky, up-tempo music. That seems to
be the genuine style of Eric’s music. The only
cover on this CD is of the Alicia Keys song, “If I
Ain’t Got You.” Eric
takes this song and gives it his flavor and groove. A
very nice rendition.
“It’s Alright With Me” is
a ballad focusing totally on the sax and giving the listener
a feel for the versatility of Eric’s playing. From
soft and yearning notes to long, powerful solos, this takes
you through many emotions. “Can’t Let Go” gives
an almost Latin groove to the sax sound and drum beat. The
final tune is “Slick.” And it truly is. It
is a Culbertson-sounding infusion. Funky with a killer
horn section in addition to Eric. A great finish to
a terrific CD.
Eric Darius has proven to us once again that his young age
has no bearing on the quality of his work. His style
of funky, danceable music is infectious and will carry him
far. This is definitely another great add to your collection.
- Bonnie Schendell
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