Album Notes

L.A -based writer and singer Ron Boustead has blended up Smooth Jazz, Pop, Latin and Soul with his 2006 release, "Blend". Having written material for many other great singers like George Benson, Jonathan Butler, the Four Tops, Arnold McCuller and Deniece Williams, Boustead applies his own vocal prowess to 10 new songs, as well as compelling cover versions of Stevie Wonder's "Superstition", done down-tempo and funky, and the Carole King ballad, "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" as a bona-fide smooth jazz classic.

Boustead is probably best known as the lyricist and featured vocalist with Contemporary Jazz Keyboardist, Gregg Karukas, having collaborated on many of Gregg's CDs. Their songs "In My Dreams" and "Sound Of Emotion" in particular were radio hits in the early days of the "Wave" radio format.

"Blend" is all the more delicious thanks to the help of some great L.A. musicians like guitarists Grant Geissman, Thom Rotella and Phil Sheeran. Karukas plays acoustic piano on two tracks and mixed 11 of the songs. Soprano sax and flute are courtesy of Katisse Buckingham; and accordion virtuoso, Nick Ariando adds his flavor to three tunes, including a spicy solo on "So My Soul Can Sing". The bottom end is solidly anchored by bassist Keith Jones.

The record was produced by Boustead and Paris-based writer-producer-keyboardist-programmer and singer, Michael McGregor. Much of it was done long distance via the internet.

Ron's recent performances include L.A. jazz clubs, the Catalina Jazz Festival, and regular tours of Japan. Otherwise he can be found fine-tuning other artist's projects at legendary Precision Mastering in Hollywood.



RECENT REVIEW!!!


"So what makes an album special? We can be analytical about the compositions, players, arrangements, and production...or we can just take it all in and recognize that sometimes it just all comes together in a serendipitous way. In other words, it's all about the blend. To me, such is the case with the aptly-titled BLEND from L.A.-based singer-songwriter Ron Boustead (pronounced "bo-sted"). Ron is definitely not new to the Smooth Jazz genre, having collaborated over the years with Gregg Karukas on many of his successful projects. Now he's created a delicious collection of originals plus a couple of uniquely reworked classic hits that is truly a breath of fresh air for the Smooth Jazz format. His voice and style remind me of Bill Champlin, and that is a supreme compliment. he's got a very genuine, organic, passionate delivery that totally invites you into his world of meaningful lyrics and compelling melodies. Of his originals, "Waiting For A Miracle", Lovers Say Goodbye" and "When Love Comes Back" are total winners. In addition, his fresh reads on Carole King's "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" and Stevie Wonder's "Superstition" create virtually brand new songs. He's surrounded himself with some of L.A.''s best musicians, with Gregg Karukas, Grant Geissman, and Phil Sheeran guesting on a number of tracks. I'll tell you one thing...the more I listen to this album, the better I like it. Ron Boustead's BLEND is one of those albums that'll very quickly get under your skin...in a very positive way!" SCOTT O'BRIEN smoothjazz.com