Andre Berry
Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, André was influenced in his early days by Louis Johnson of the Brothers Johnson, Larry Graham of Sly & The Family Stone, Verdine White of Earth, Wind & Fire and of course that mega funkster Bootsy Collins. This amalgam of distinctive styles carry over to the extensive work he now does in contemporary jazz and is well exemplified by his role as co-producer of Warren Hills 2006 album ‘Pop Jazz' which, for the most part, mirrors the big, in your face and quite often funky style in which Hill typically plays. That said, Berry also has the ability to inject great sensitivity into his music and this is perfectly demonstrated with the tune ‘It Could Happen' that he composed with Brian Simpson and which appears on Simpson's breakthrough CD, ‘It's All Good'. These more subtle skills are also in evidence on the title track of his 2006 solo project ‘Gratitude' and equally so with ‘Somebody To Love' from the same recording. This catchy slice of mid tempo smooth jazz makes superb use of backing vocals and in every respect represents a very special piece of buried treasure. Berry's brand new CD ‘For The Moment' was recorded between November 2007 and January 2008 from his home studio in North Hollywood. It takes him to yet another level and the more vibey and turned down approach permeates many of its tracks. The stunning ‘Daydreamin', where he is joined by long time colleague Randy Jacobs on electric guitar, is a fine example and Jacobs also pops up with the mellow ‘Walk With Me' and the funk fuelled ‘You Put Me In A Trance'. Mindi Abair graces the album with appearances on ‘Forever This Moment' where her tender duet with Berry is right on the money and on ‘Shine Like A Diamond'. This textbook example of contemporary jazz is one of nine original compositions from Berry and when he goes back to his roots for the collection's only cover the result is his re-imagining of the Brothers Johnson ‘I'll Be Good To You'. It's a number that is replete with the old school funk appeal that has exited much of today's black music and indeed it is one of Berry's stated aims to keep alive that distinctive horns, guitar, bass and vocals combination that populated much of his musical development. André revels in the excitement that can transmit itself from a live audience and given tour dates for 2008 are already scheduled with both Mindi Abair and Norman Brown it is certain he is set to remain as one of the most sought after bass players in the business. ‘For The Moment' is just one more great reason to connect with the music of Andre Berry so, for all the latest tour dates and news, go to www.andreberry.com.
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