Synergism is often defined as “the action of two or more to achieve an effect of which each is individually incapable.”  I’m reminded of this every time I listen to a Fourplay.  Bob James, Nathan East, Larry Carlton and Harvey Mason bring a unique mix to the studio with every release.  They are exceptional masters in the jazz genre who bring out the best in each other and find new ways to express their craft.  It’s hard to believe this is their tenth disc (counting their “best of” and Christmas release).  X is a milestone for these four, and each cut has the distinct signature of its writer.

“Turnabout” is the first cut and is definitely a James penned tune.  Carlton’s guitar sets up the funky melody.  This has that “Tappan Zee” feel to it and reminds me of some of Bob’s earlier works.  His acoustic piano solo definitely has some old-school feel to it, but Carlton gets it going again with rousing chord progressions and melody.  East gets into the act with some light scat and bass undertones as the tune closes out.  You might want to hit the repeat button on this one. “Cinnamon Sugar” is Carlton’s first song here, and he begins it with some nice chord action.  He’s prominent throughout and this is a good one to hear his playing.  The mood is laid back as James joins in with a little keyboard action.  He returns to the same haunting melody that starts this one off and closes with some nice licks from his Gibson.  “Eastern Sky” is a driving number from East that features his vocal undertones that blend well with his bass. Mason keeps it pushing to a climatic fusion early on that begins again with the East’s bass. Carlton's “fast” guitar plays along with Mason’s driving backbeat then gives way to acoustic piano.  The vocal undertones and driving beat pick up again and take it to its ending.  You would expect a song from Harvey Mason to be heavy on the percussion, but surprisingly it is not.  His snare and bass are out-front on “Kid Zero” as everyone gets into the act.  This one features everyone equally and is a joy to listen to.

There’s usually a vocal selection on most Fourplay releases, and this one is no exception.  Steve Winwood’s hit “My Love’s Leavin’” features the unmistakable vocals of Michael McDonald.  This is a perfect song for this “blue-eyed” soul performer as he stretches his range.  You’ll hear this one on the radio as it is the first single.  James and Carlton are featured heavily on “Screenplay” as they both play off each other before giving way to Carlton’s fluid solo.  James' acoustic has a late-night feel to it before being joined by Carlton again.  This one’s a little darker than most of the other cuts but has more of a straight-up feel to it in general.  I would have liked to have heard a few measures of upright bass from East to complete the feel. “Twilight Touch” is a nice transition from its previous cut, and continues on with a darker mood.  There are light vocals from Michele Pillar on Carlton’s “Be My Lover.”  The melody is a syncopated riff giving way to Carlton’s fluid guitar.  X closes with East’s moving “Sunday Morning.”  It’s a reverent tune that offers glimpses into each of the players and features the haunting guitar of Carlton and undertones of James' keyboards.

As always, these guys deliver.  Fans won’t be disappointed with this tenth release from the supergroup Fourplay.  They mix it up well and feature all four players.  If you have any questions, X marks the spot.

- Harvey Cline