Preston Glass - Music As Medicine (2008)

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    I find myself writing reviews for "Soul Tracks" (the last one on Simone) with a degree of partiality that some may consider prejudicial but, hey, I make no apologies for admitting upfront that the multi-talented Preston Glass is one of my favorite people! We worked extensively together on my own last recording project (Wistful Elegance, released under the name "Pharaoh's Dream") and I can attest that the musician/songwriter/producer/arranger is not only one of the most easy-going music men I've ever met but brings a whole lotta soul, skill and sensitivity to his work.

    I find myself writing reviews for "Soul Tracks" (the last one on Simone) with a degree of partiality that some may consider prejudicial but, hey, I make no apologies for admitting upfront that the multi-talented Preston Glass is one of my favorite people! We worked extensively together on my own last recording project (Wistful Elegance, released under the name "Pharaoh's Dream") and I can attest that the musician/songwriter/producer/arranger is not only one of the most easy-going music men I've ever met but brings a whole lotta soul, skill and sensitivity to his work.

    It's no surprise then that his latest CD, the follow-up to the fine Street Corner Prophecy set (which suffered greatly from lack of exposure and promotion) is once again filled with some great music and a plethora of wonderful guest artists. It is a testament to Preston's standing in the music biz (after years as a producer and award-winning songwriter with credits that fill several pages of All Music Guide and include illustrious names like Aretha Franklin, Natalie Cole, Kenny G., EW&F, Lenny Williams, Diana Ross and The Stylistics among many others) that those appearing on his latest work include Maurice White, Dave Koz, Ali Woodson, Brian Culbertson, Wilton Felder, Larry Graham, Brian Culbertson, Rebbie Jackson and Amy Keys!

    There are several new artists included too, most notably Gem (featured on the hypnotic title track), Carlos (on the melodic "In Small Doses") and Seabron who guests on the funky "Groove Injection." My personal favorites on the CD are the opening cut, "Love Will Get Us Through The Times" (featuring former ‘American Idol' contestant LaToya London); the quiet storm jam "Good For Me (Good For You)," a duet between Larry Graham and Amy Keys with Wilton Felder providing some tasty sax; the perky "Blackberry" with Woodson (with that James Ingram-like famed vocal ‘yelp'!); the memorable "Save The Stress For Last" (with Culbertson and Rebbie Jackson); and the truth-telling "Without The Music" (also featuring Mr. Woodson and new artist Punkin).

    Of course, the real star here is Mr. Glass, whose keyboard work is heard throughout the album and who produced the sixteen tracks on this latest offering. It is as the title suggests truly music as medicine regardless of ailment!

    By David Nathan
    Owner,
    www.soulmusic.com