Livin' In the Zone

Leading into what sounds like the intro to "Rock Me Amadeus" on the first track of Livin' in the Zone is a spoken word statement of purpose where various people take the mic to lay out what it really means to be living as such. Apparently, to one person that means, "The place in which all dreams and wishes manifest itself." Incorrect grammar aside, the track leads one to expect an epic R&B concept album. In actuality, keyboardist/producer Lesette Wilson has crafted an average, while admittedly accomplished, instrumental pop album targeted at a contemporary jazz audience. Having worked with such diverse artists as Fela Anikalupo-Kuti and Roy Ayers has earned Wilson an impressive pedigree, and her chops are in full effect. Many of the tracks feature elaborate arrangements replete with strings and horn hits. Unfortunately, most of the album was sequenced on keyboards, and there is a stiffness to the arrangements. It is only too bad that Wilson did not take a little more time and employ some musicians to play actual instruments.