Pianist David Benoit is basking in the warmth of his first recording of original material in four years, "Earthglow." David modeled his album after a blend of instrumental jazz he calls "jazz-lounge-Euro-chill."
Benoit was interested in trying something a little different on his latest outing, so he turned to his longtime engineer Clark Germain for help. He explained to Clark that he wanted the album to have an edgy, "chill" sound, with long 'loops' and lots of samples. Finally, David and Clark discovered the sleek fusion sound they were looking for, specifically on the track "Will's Chill."
David also explores world beat rhythms on "Botswana Bossa Nova." He says, "I loved the world mix of exotic percussion and African voices along with Brazilian beats."
David's passion for symphonic music, theory and composition began in college in his native California. He studied orchestration and conducting, before landing work as music director for stage and screen stars Lainie Kazan, Ann-Margret and Connie Stevens.
In addition to his solo career, which has garnered more than 20 best-selling solo albums since 1977, David has arranged, produced and performed for many of today's top pop and jazz musicians. He continues to divide his time between film scoring and conducting for the Asia America Symphony Orchestra.
For his new release, David says, "The task of finding a title to best represent the music contained herein was challenging at best."
After trying out several titles, he came up with "Earthglow," inspired by a stunning satellite photograph of planet Earth that eventually became the album's cover.