Understanding the nature of his art, Manson keeps the music lively, heartfelt and grooving. Manson has created something for everyone on this album.
A lively beginning with "Coming Right At Ya" as Manson treads lightly across his strings mirrored by muted horns and suspenseful piano rolls. Funk filled percussion keeps beat gingerly. This is a nice way to open a CD, keeping the audience tuned in for each note.
More pensive, yet still lively, "It’s The Way She Moves" shows skillful fretting interspersed with melodic sax in a melodic groove. The title track, "Just Feelin’ It" is a harmonic mix of horn and guitar rhythm with a stealthy drum backing--a toe tappin’ head movin’ groove.
It takes a confident group of artists to offer a six minute version of "There’s Nothing Better Than Love," a song made famous by the one and only Luther Van Dross. Light, heavenly vocals gently enhance the guitar notes.
Perking up the tempo, "Way Back When" gives the listener a touch of ‘old school’ jammin’. A funky groove accentuated by an expansive keyboard roll and just the right guitar lick keeps this tune lively. Muted horn keeps it sassy.
Airy vocal inflections open "Another Chance." This love tune is done masterfully with a tight interplay between sax and guitar until the sax comes up strong in front and wails along with the vocals, stretching the notes, deepening the tone, expressing "love is the answer."
"In Flight" steps up the pace, with a strong percussion and intense fretting. Each note is clear, distinct, sure in its intent to provoke emotion. Another song for lovers, "Still Thinking About You" is more than five minutes of heartfelt, soft guitar licks, gentle piano strolls, enticing horns -pure romance in the air.
"Bassment" shows off Michael Manson’s talent for keeping the vibes low while the horns rage hot. Funky rhythm, stretching trombones and frantic piano strides team up, culminating in a searing funk-fusion, percussion driven tune.
Kevin Whalum provides the lead vocals for the famous Bill Withers tune "A Lovely Day." A soft piano entrance introduces "Tis So Sweet." Backed with slow drum brushing, this somber tune maintains an air of bouncy rhythm.
Michael Manson has paid his dues as a sideman for the last twenty years. His debut album brought him to the center of the party. This album promises to keep him in focus..
