Mango Cooler

Album Review

Seattle native Brotman's irresistibly engaging debut is another of '90s smooth jazz guitar greats, following the melodic path previously paved by Grant Geissman, Peter White, Phil Sheeran, et al. Brotman may not add anything stylistically to the fold, but his instantly hummable melodies and smooth production make him one of the more engaging players of the early '90s. Offering a special romantic breeziness, these ten tunes come ready for airplay and those moonlit strolls on the beach. The heartfelt way he strokes his classical strings may remind listeners of Russ Freeman's simpler works, while Brotman's texturing of Steve Reid's percussion and Jerry Martini's silky sax will bring you further into that Rippingtons comfort zone. Fortunately, however, Brotman keeps his guitar happy playing the star here and keeps the overall sound quality sweet and simple.