Produced and arranged by Albright, Pushing The Envelope provides the perfect opportunity for this master musician/saxophonist/songwriter to exhibit his skills. He plays soprano, alto, tenor and baritone saxophones, flutes, bass guitar, and keyboards, and also handles synthesizer, EWI and drum programming. Albright's band on most of the album includes keyboardists Tracy Carter and Luther "Mano" Hanes, guitarist Ricky Watford and drummer Ricky Lawson.
Pushing the Envelope is easily Gerald Albright's most rewarding session to date. "The title reflects all the tunes on the project," Albright says. "I didn't want to hold anything back. I really wanted to push the envelope and give people a little more edge. I come from the era where we didn't think of a formula - we went from the gut."
“Gerald Albright has been bringing his A-game to the smooth jazz circuit for twenty-five years and he still continues to maintain his title as one of the more consistent musicians around. Even after all his accomplishments as a reputed jazz musician, Albright is a humble man who exudes such a positive aura; after the interview it was clear that Albright was in the business for the love of the music and his fans, and not necessarily for resting on his own laurels. Grooveability is Gerald Albright’s signature move on every CD that he makes and there is a lot of that going on when you listen to his new CD called Pushing the Envelope, which is due for a June 15th release.”
JazzReview.com
“With its funk foundation and its openness to both alternate beats and improvisation, Pushing the Envelope will find an audience looking for more than just another smooth jazz album. It is another solid outing by a now-legendary artist who doesn’t rest on his jazz laurels. Recommended.”
Soul Tracks
“There are sax players and there is Gerald Albright.…With his new album, Pushing The Envelope, Gerald Albright shows all facets of his musical character. Heartfelt romantic meets energetic funk. Pure Gerald Albright.”
Smooth Jazz Daily
“I really enjoyed this one from Gerald Albright. There is so much here to offer. His playing ability is at the forefront of so many songs here and it really gives you an appreciation of his talent.”
SmoothViews.com
“Jazz and R&B icon Gerald Albright is considered one of the most innovative and successful artists of the last 25 years. With the June 15 release of Pushing The Envelope on Heads Up International, a division of Concord Music Group, Albright’s supercool side is back. With its polished soul/jazz vibe, Pushing The Envelope is a showcase for Albright’s remarkably fine balance of songcraft and musicianship, and features special guest appearances by Fred Wesley on trombone, Earl Klugh on acoustic guitar and George Duke on acoustic piano.”
JazzFM
“Simply a high octane party celebrating chops and great playing that doesn’t quit…Well done.”
Midwest Record
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