Warner Bros / Wea
1993
Invitation
About This Album
A luscious outing from piano great Joe Sample, this disc includes beautiful interpretations of ten standards and near-standards. Featuring plush orchestral arrangements by Dale Oehler wrapped over and around Sample's piano trio, Invitation is simply one of the loveliest recordings of Sample's career. With a rhythm section made up of bassist Cecil McBee and drummer Victor Lewis, augmented by Lenny Castro on percussion, the music is of a piece from start to finish. Producer Tommy Lipuma has found a wonderful setting for Sample to show his gorgeous, acoustic piano stylings, and the orchestra feels like part of the trio instead of an add-on. When Sample uses synths, they are indistinguishable from the orchestra. Overall, a smooth, romantic, highly recommended recording. ~ Jim Newsom, All Music Guide
Track List (try tracks 1,2,3,4,5,6 and 7)

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