Back in 1990, keyboardist and piano player Bob James was putting together an album called Grand Piano Canyon.  He wrote lots of music for this album, but he needed some musicians to help him play it.  So, Bob went to California to work with his friends Lee Ritenour and Harvey Mason, two people he’s known for years, but he was missing a bass player.  They were recording the song “Restoration” at the time.  He asked his two friends who he should use on bass, and they both agreed that he should get Nathan East.  “I definitely was looking for Lee and Harvey to give me a strong recommendation, and, of course, I went with it.  The rest is history, as they say.”

And history it was.  As it turned out, the chemistry and musicality between these four musicians was incredible.  They had such a good time playing and recording together that they wanted to work together again.  And that’s how Bob James, Harvey Mason, Nathan East, and Lee Ritenour became the super group known as Fourplay. 

In the early ‘90’s, things were a lot more innovative and creative than they’ve been in recent times.  However, the idea that four individually talented musicians, each with their own successful solo careers, would come together and play as a group was something extraordinary, and to be honest, risky.  What if it didn’t work?  What harm would they do to their individual careers if this failed?

So, Fourplay was born and released their first album, the self titled Fourplay, in 1991, and it was a huge success.  Smooth and contemporary jazz fans loved it.  Listening to this album, it’s no secret why it was so well received.  The CD begins with “Bali Run,” a tune penned by Ritenour and James.  While listening to this song, you can hear each of the four band members leaving their marks on this song.  You hear Ritenour expertly laying it down, you hear James holding steady on the keys, and you hear the fabulous rhythm section of East and Mason bringing it all together.  By the time the song reaches its conclusion, you realize that this is something special.

The second tune, “101 Eastbound,” is written by brothers Nathan and Marcel East.  Back in my retail days, when I sold consumer electronics, this sound was one of the songs used to demo stereos and speakers.  It was perfect for the job because this song allowed one to hear the music as it was meant to be heard.  You can pick out the sound of each instrument and hear how clear and pure the music is.  Also, Nathan East’s wordless vocals do not overpower the music.   

“Foreplay” is softer in tone and highlights Ritenour’s guitar playing.  Most of the songs are original, written by the respective members.  “Moon Jogger” is a mid tempo song showcasing Bob James’ keys.  “Max-O-Man” is another up-tempo tune.  Sitting at my desk, I can’t help but tap my feet when I hear Bob James play on this one.   There is one cover song on this release, “After the Dance,” featuring El DeBarge on lead vocals.  “Quadrille” is one of those songs I listen to and think how it will sound when played live, because if it sounds that good on the recording, the live version must be amazing.  The remaining four songs continue to deliver good music in what will become known as classic Fourplay style.  Over the years, their music will develop into their own signature sound, and you’ll know it instantly when you hear it.

In 1991, the concept of Fourplay was something new and exciting, and the music they created reflected that.  No one had heard anything quite like this before.  Music lovers ate it up.  This debut CD took a big leap in the world of smooth and contemporary jazz.  Almost 20 years later, Fourplay continues to deliver.