Tony Gable & 206

For many musicians, there comes a time when being a successful sideman isn't enough and a true artist with a unique voice emerges. With the release of this album, Kenny G's longtime percussionist finally emerged from the shadows and whipped up his own brand of melodic and aggressive smooth jazz. Gable and his band (named after their Seattle area code) show the kind of playful sensibilities which propelled the G man to the peak of the genre. Add to this the intensely grooving nature of Gable's playing style and elements of soul and funk deriving from his extensive background in these areas, and the result was one of 1993's best debuts. The collection is highlighted by performances by guitarist John Raymond (who also produced), keyboardist Bela Havasretti and Kenny G himself, who produced two tracks. "The Slip" sets the tone with a cool, funky groove and Raymond's tight electric lines being balanced with Gable's lush soundscaping. Kenny G's trademark soprano blends wonderfully with Gable's romantic vocal style on the seductive Quiet Storm ballad "Island Lady." Unfortunately, after one other charting album, Gable & 206 went MIA.