Stanley Clarke, 1, 2, To The Bass

This album is disappointing. It's dominated by smooth jazz which, although played very well, just knocks the edge off any of the better moments. These include guest slots by Dr. L. Subramaniam or when Clarke cranks it up with trademark cascades. But the majority is trite and hollow. From the crass "Doo-Bop"-like opening collaboration with A Tribe Called Quest rapper Q-Tip, via the heavily orchestrated backdrop to Oprah reading from Angelou for an agonising six and a half minutes, and through the many quiet storm R&B numbers, this is not a good platform for Clarke's talents. The album is padded out with a couple of solo tracks, one live replete with annoying whoops and cries from the overly excited audience. The album has few truly enjoyable moments. Perhaps, the most fun can be had spotting the Clarke quotes from his far superior classic albums like "Journey To Love" and "Schooldays". Perhaps, we should remember Clarke's abilities from those albums, and not this one.