"(The title Step It Up) reflects the music: optimistic, energetic and an attempt to ‘step up’ our game, our compositions, production and improvisation, to the next level. Also lending a hand are drummers Ash Soan, Gary Novak and Vinnie Colaiuta, saxophonist Gary Meek, guitarists Michael Thompson and Paul Jackson Jr.
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Among the world-class musicians joining the pair are saxophonist Bob Mintzer and guitarist Robben Ford, both former bandmates of Haslip’s in fusion band Yellowjackets. The album features 11 Lorber originals, several co-written with Haslip, who also co-produced. Something Else! Step It Up is the fourth consecutive collaboration between Grammy nominated keyboardist/composer/producer Jeff Lorber and Grammy-winning bassist/composer/producer Jimmy Haslip since they reactivated Jeff Lorber Fusion in 2010. it’s a challenge and Lorber, along with Haslip, rose up to meet it."
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Many of the co-writes dig a little bit deeper harmonically, recalling fusion experiments of Weather Report, Freddie Hubbard even back to Coltrane. "Some contemporary jazz albums will have a cut or two that grooves every track on Step It Up does that and does it well. it is truly exciting to simply sit back and listen to the movement of genius and creativity as it sets out to claim your musical senses."
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There isn’t a disappointing track to be found. every tune from the funky lead track to the slick, pronounced title track and finale has to be a complete source of pride for the duo.