One of the biggest complaints about contemporary jazz is that it's too commercially minded to be truly unique and creative. R&B guitarist has figured out a way to combine the two in fresh ways which offer treats for the pop market as well as true jazz buffs. has those easily accessible, -esque cool funk grooves and vocals but also plenty of energetic creative electric and acoustic playing to show that understands the traditions his music is founded on. Even on more pedestrian fare like 's he improvises nicely, but that's just an appetizer for the disc's real pleasures, two fiery all-acoustic blues jams with , and . More would have been appreciated. Still, blend all the elements, artistic and chart conscious together, and gives the genre a perfect balancing act. ~ Jonathan Widran