Michael C Lewis is reviewed by Rambles

Michael C. Lewis, Reflection 
(independent, 2009)

Review By:  Dave Howell

This is a smooth jazz release that has Michael C. Lewis both playing and singing on mostly original songs. It begins with "Reflection (Sunrise)," which has Lewis playing flugelhorn on a simple but appealing tune backed only by keyboards. "Gulf Breeze" is a mildly funky tune with a breezy melody featuring Lewis on both trumpet and flugelhorn. 

Lewis also does a soul version of the Carpenters' "We've Only Just Begun."

"Kid Time" combines funk and effects like echoes and doubling for a groovy nu-jazz vibe, even adding some electric guitar work by William "Spaceman" Patterson. "Reflection (Sunset)" is a nice ending as well as beginning.

The whole CD is very synthesized, even crediting two people just for programming. There is no bass player or drummer, only drum programming. This approach provides a nice wash of sound backing Lewis's horns, which in turn have a rounded, softer feel that fits in with the melodies. This is a nicely done smooth jazz effort.