About This:
Melvin Smith, "soulful sax man and well musically educated award winner" (Chris Spector-Midwest Record Review), is a native of Jacksonville, Florida who began playing saxophone at the age of thirteen. During his early musical development Smith was fortunate to have great musical experiences like performing at the Montreux Jazz Festival and a European tour. Smith attended the prestigious Berklee College of Music where he received an excellent education in music. Smith later received a Master's Degree in Jazz Studies from Queens College in New York. During the late 90's Smith was a part of ADMAS, a New York based groundbreaking Ethiopian Jazz group. During the same time Smith, became a member of The New York Jazz Group The New Hope Ensemble, and the acid jazz group Funk Monk. Since moving to New York Melvin has had the opportunity to play with such artists as Charlie Persip, Hubert Eaves III, Ben Vereen, MIchael Henderson, and Norman Conners. Smith has also had the pleasure of opening for Ce Ce WInans and Donnie McClurkin. Smith's critically acclaimed 2007 release "Portrait" has been compared to Donald Byrd's A New Perspective ( Blue Note 1962) and I'm trying to get Home (Blue Note 1964) and Smith's approach has been compared to Hank Mobley by Micheal Gladstone at All About Jazz. Smith has also been compared to Charles Lloyd and George Coleman (John Barron- All About Jazz). Portait mixes different styles and feels for a great project. John Barron writes: "Portrait is an honest representation of an artist willing to take chances while respecting the musical traditions of his past. Smith has the potential to reach a broad audience without compromising an ounce of artistic integrity." On Melvin's new release expect more of the same. Smith will push the envelope to get the most out of the music. If you like jazz you'll love" I Surrender All."