One artist who truly keeps the “smooth” in c-jazz relevant and afloat is saxman Greg Chambers whose steady, gliding, and melodic style is always infectious and so good for the soul. His latest release A New Day is proof positive that the man keeps the flow of this type of alluring jazz flowing freely in his veins. Dedicated to his wife and the newest addition to his family – baby boy Owen (huge congrats, by the way) – the album is comprised of a solid arrangement of all original gems, each glowing with its own energy. Contributing to the album is a host of more-than-competent c-jazz personalities including keyboardist/produc/programmer Nate Harasim; guitarists Paul Brown, Adam Hawley, David P. Stevens, Nils, Matt Godina, and Kenji Matsui; bassist Roberto Vally; and trumpeter Lin Rountree (on flugelhorn here), among others. The material here is solid evidence that the flow was seamless in the making of this album, and everyone obviously gelled so easily and effortlessly. There’s so much to like about this groove-filled project. From the finger-snappin’ lead and title track to the satisfying and coolly-paced “When I Think of You” to the head-boppin’, hook-rich “Side to Side” with its Euge Groove feel and Chambers personality to the gentle stride of “Sweet Embrace” and beyond, this is an album of character, poise, and swagger. The melodies and hooks are memorable; the feel is infectious; the cadence is laced with that of a confident strut. It’s definitely one of those recordings that warrants replaying over and over again — simply because it fits you so well. This is nothing new with Chambers. His music is always filled with color, and that’s why it’s a refreshing pleasure to settle back and drink in his material, knowing that I will be motivated from track one to offer my thoughts on it. This is real music with all the trimmings. Treat yourself.”

Ronald Jackson, Smooth Jazz Ride

Sax man Greg Chambers is set to release his fifth studio album this summer. It is called A New Day, and it contains ten original tracks. There is a nice mix of slow, mid-tempo and up-tempo tracks to enjoy. If you are unfamiliar with Mr. Chambers, he has worked with some of the best in the biz, including Julian Vaughn, Nils, Darren Rahn and Paul Brown. In addition to his recording and tour schedule, Chambers is also a music educator in the San Francisco Bay Area (South Bay). I have to give my people from the Bay some love, right? You can also go to YouTube and check out his spin on Chris Brown‘s Fine China. The set begins with the title track, New Day. It is an uptempo track, and in addition to the sax, the guitar part plays a nice role in the song. Chambers’ sax arrangement is on point as he changes it up throughout. I like the way the sax and the guitar play off of each other near the end. Chambers keeps up the pace with When I Think Of You. I really love the way he rides the groove here. He comes in smooth during the verse, then the track really comes alive on the hook. Are you ready for a slow jam? Side To Side will be one of the hits on the album. I was immediately drawn to the keyboard hits in the hook. This is one track that I would like to hear live. You can just tell there are parts in this song where the band can really shine. Sweet Embrace is next. Chambers commands the track like a good vocalist would. When you listen to this song, pay attention to all of the instrumental sounds in the background. It is pure cotton candy for the ears. I have said in the past that a song title can actually trigger the visual as you listen to the song. This is true with Midnight Drive. I can totally hear this song playing in the car as I drive home from an evening out, on a warm summer night. This is what music does…..evoke visuals and emotions from the listener. Chambers keeps the smooth vibe going with Gotta Get Back To You. I spent a lot of time trying to describe this track, but as soon as it starts playing, I would just close my eyes and groove to the music. I guess that says it all. Once In A While shows off Chambers’ funky side. I especially like the old school synthesizers the breakdown. I actually could have used more of that. On Tell Me All Your Secrets, I really like what I am hearing. Is that an 808 drum bass in there? I thought I was about to listen to a Keith Sweat song for a minute. There are actually several levels to this track, that  you have to listen to it a few times to take it all in. I really like the next track, ‘Til Sunrise, but I think there is a remix opportunity here for an EDM track. I can totally hear a house beat behind this. The set ends with All For You. This is the perfect slow jam to close the show. For me, this song has a mid-90’s feel to it. I am definitely not mad at that. If you are familiar with Greg’s work, you will definitely want to add this to your collection. If you are new to his music, this will be a good introduction to the artist. You can purchase the album or listen on your favorite streaming service starting June 21st.”

Keith Richard, TheJazzWorld.com

Smooth Jazz Therapy favorite Greg Chambers has been carving out his place in the annals of smooth jazz saxophone since 2007 and the release of his debut recording ‘City Lights’. His self-titled follow up came along in 2011 and was followed two years later by the excellent seven-song EP ‘After Hours’. Even better (and then his most commercial to date) was the 2014 project ‘Can’t Help Myself’ and now he is back with the outstanding ‘A New Day’ for which he is joined by regular collaborators Matt Godina and Paul Brown plus a ‘who’s who’ of smooth jazz talent including Adam Hawley, Kenji Matsui, Roberto Vally, Preston Smith, Nate Harasim, Rodney Franklin, Lin Rountree, Nils and Lew Laing. The immense feel good vibe of the title cut proves to be a wonderful way to get the album started. It is one of five tracks co-written by Chambers with guitarist and keyboard player Matt Godina while elsewhere that highly respected producer, mixer, writer and performer Nate Harasim has a hand in three of the ten choice tunes. ‘Til Sunrise’, which features a cool contribution on guitar from Nils, is a zesty tour de force, ‘Tell Me All Your Secrets’ is in the best tradition of the smooth jazz anthem and much the same could be said of ‘When I Think Of You’ that might well get in your head and not go away. Chambers and Godina also write ‘Midnight Drive’ that is not only a superb showcase for Chambers’ on-point playing but also includes guitars from rising star Adam Hawley. Greg eases down the tempo for the heartfelt ‘All For You’ where Paul Brown joins him on guitar. In fact Brown features often and none more so than with the ultra tender ‘Sweet Embrace’ that he co-writes, produces and adds his distinctive guitar sound.   Brown is also front back and center of the up-tempo ‘Once In A While’ yet in terms of personal favorites the lusciously easy grooving ‘Gotta Get Back To You’ is right up there with the best that ‘A New Day’ has to offer. That said, and all things considered, it is another Chambers Godina composition, the deliciously swaggering ‘Side To Side’, that reveals itself as a terrific slice of textbook contemporary jazz. Greg Chambers is the real smooth jazz deal and then some. Check him out.” - Denis Poole

Denis Poole, Smooth Jazz Therapy

Saxophonist Greg Chambers has five trumps in his hand. City Lights (2006), Greg Chambers (2011), After Hours (2013), Can't Help Myself (2014) and A New Day(2018). The new album will be released June 21, 2018. For the purpose of quality assurance, Greg has brought in the best producers and musicians the smooth jazz market has to offer. The liner notes mention Matt Godina (keyboards, bass, & drum programming), Nate Harasim (guitar, keyboards, drum programming, synths), Paul Brown (guitars), Lew Laing (keyboards, bass & drum programming), who also have written the tracks in cooperation with Greg. The project is also joined by David P. Stevens (lead & rhythm guitars),  Roberto Vally (bass), Kenji Matsui and Adam Hawley (guitars), Rodney Franklin (keyboards), Preston Smith, Lin Rountree  (flugelhorn) and Nils (guitar). The album begins with the uplifting title track grabbing your attention with a positive mood. With Greg's fine sax overdubs and David P. Stevens' melodious guitar chords the tune has a wonderful flow. When I Think of You is not a cover of Janet Jacksons' great hit but Greg's work with Nate Harasim. The song embodies Greg's responsive sensibility in soft saxtones. Side to Side allures with a compassionate sound on tenor sax which can not be surpassed in cautiousness. Sweet Embrace comes from the kitchen of successful producer Paul Brown, he adds sweet guitar sounds to Greg's sultry performance. Midnight Drive features Lew Laing on keyboards as a welcome instrumental variation. Gotta Get Back to You evokes with old fashion drum programming associations with Marvin Gaye's Sexual Healing. Once in a While features a catching duet between Greg and guitarist Paul Brown. Tell Me All Your Secrets differs a little from the style of the previous songs. Thanks to Nate Harasim, who introduces a modern appealing sound. On 'Til Sunrise Greg continues to navigate between contemporary urban music and saxual sweetness. The final All for You can be easily classified in the category love ballads. Saxophonist Greg Chambers delivers with A New Day a solid album for all lovers of the smooth jazz saxophone. He always creates a cozy atmosphere fore those who prefer soothing and calming music.”

Hans-Bernd Hulsmann, Smooth & Soul

Sometimes, it’s nice to sit and chill on an uneventful, carefree afternoon. What better way to chill, than listening to the refreshing, urban sounds of smooth jazz? The answer should be obvious that ‘there is no better way,’ but if those words aren’t the first thing to slip off your tongue, let saxophonist Greg Chambers change your tune. Chambers’ new album, Can’t Help Myself, is nothing short of sensational, soothing, and pleasing. 11 tracks deep, Mr. Chambers does not miss a beat… or a note for that matter!  “Can’t Help Myself” opens the album sophisticatedly and energetically. Melodically – as is the case with many smooth-jazz songs – it’s tuneful, and catchy. When Chambers drifts from the melody, his sax ad-libs are somewhat subtle yet meaningfully so. “Can’t Help Myself” definitely establishes the tone. On follow-up “In the Moment,” Chambers gets an assist from bassist Julian Vaughn. The combination of sax and bass on melody is stunning to say the least; the ‘color’ created really pops. Though melodic bass isn’t new, it never ceases to amaze. Two tracks in and Chambers is cooking – grease baby, grease! “So Into You” opens with a lush, somewhat mysterious soundscape that breaks into another groove-driven joint. Chamber’s alto tone is silky smooth, with his upper register cutting through particularly well. On “Off the Cuff,” Chambers once more brings on guests via Nils (guitars) and Nate Harasim (keyboards and drum programming). Nils gets a brief, but worthwhile solo turn while Harsim’s array of keyboard accompaniment helps shape the track itself – particularly the organ. “Off the Cut” proves as pleasant as everything preceding it. Chambers keeps it ‘saxy’ you might say. “All My Life” is expectedly a crowning achievement for Chambers; anything less would’ve been a disappointment. Covering any massively popular hit it isn’t easy, particularly a K-Ci & JoJo original. While nothing could ever supplant the original, Chamber’s expressive alto, not to mention Jalen Seawright’s spot-on vocals easily do justice to this classic. “All My Life” ranks among the favorites. “Saturday Afternoon” tweaks the script a bit. Actually, not the script itself, but the instrumentation, as Chambers shows off some soprano sax chops. Matt Godina is featured on guitar on this one, after having previously appeared on two previous tracks. Has “Saturday Afternoon” ever felt better? Then, ladies and gentlemen, “It’s On.” Literally, that’s the name of the song. ‘Course, anytime Paul Brown joins the crew doing that guitar thing he does so well, well, it really is on. Throw in a more urban, chill groove and “It’s On” is top-rate by all means. Things remain sort of lazy and relaxed on “Come A Little Closer,” which certainly accomplishes the ‘inviting’ vibe through its sound that the title suggests. On “Lovely,” Chambers once again ventures into the covers territory, this time courtesy of Boyz II Men a la Nathan Michael Shawn Wanya (2000). Assisted by Kevin Lewis on vocals, Lewis maintains more of a background role, never usurping Chambers or assuming a lead vocal role on this particular song. This ‘complementary’ role executed by Lewis is selfless and alluring. But so is “Lovely,” which is indeed “Lovely.” Penultimate cut “Wait Awhile” continues with a sensual, romantic sentiment, evidenced from the jump. After an intro sets the tone, Chambers sneaks in with that seductive alto – ooh la la! Can’t Help Myself ends with the brief, but chivalrous “Dreaming of You,” where Chambers beautifully paints a radiant portrait of love. Ultimately, Can’t Help Myself is a fine, enjoyable smooth jazz affair from Greg Chambers. Consistent from start to finish, Chambers has assembled something truly special. And it just can’t be said enough – the man can play! Can’t Help Myself exhibits nothing short of elite musicianship. Favorites: “Can’t Help Myself,” “In the Moment,” “All My Life,” and “It’s On””

Brent Faulkner, Brent Music Reviews

Zijn nieuwste project werd geproduceerd door keyboardspeler Nate Harasim en Matt Godina, en bevat 11 tracks. Onmiddellijk neemt de titeltrack je mee op een “catchy feel good” trip, waarop Harasim keyboards, synthesizers, bas & drumprogrammering voor zijn rekening neemt. Op het up-tempo nummer ‘In the Moment’ kan je bassist Julian Vaughn horen, terwijl de smooth jazz van ‘So Into You’ relaxed overkomt. Gitarist Nils en Nate Harasim op piano, orgel & keyboards spelen mee op ‘Off the Cuff’, waarna Greg de K-Ci en Jo Jo hit ‘All My Life’ covert. Jalen Seawright zingt het refrein van deze soulvolle ballade. ‘Saturday Afternoon’ is een ontspannen track, met Matt Godina op akoestische gitaar. Gitarist en producer Paul Brown komt meespelen op het romantische en sexy ‘It’s On’, gevolgd door het al even sensuele ‘Come a Little Closer’. Kevin Lewis zingt daarna de romantische ballade ‘Lovely’, een cover van Boyz II Men, terwijl ‘Wait Awhile’ rustige smooth jazz brengt. Afsluiten doet hij met het intieme ‘Dreaming of You’, zonder drums of percussie. Greg Chambers is een top klasse muzikant, en ik ben blij dat ik hem ontdekt heb. Frisse, catchy en soulvolle sax!”

Patrick Van de Wiele, Keys&Chords.Com

Sax man Greg Chambers is a newish kid on the smooth jazz block but the music on this – his third full album- bears all the hallmarks of a veteran of the scene. The 11 tracker is stuffed with catchy, polished, soul based grooves and the Master Of Music from UCLA kicks off the album with a strong quartet of foot tappers – 'Can't Help Myself', 'In The Moment', 'So Into You' and 'Off The Cuff'. The long player also boasts a set of decent ballad moments like the lush 'Come A Little Closer', the unashamedly romantic 'Dreaming Of You' and 'It's On' which features long-time collaborator, Paul Brown on distinctive guitar. Good too to see that Greg realizes that smooth jazz fans are partial to the odd vocal - they add colour and variety to what can sometimes be a limiting genre. Here Greg includes two vocal cuts and both 'All My Life' and 'Lovely' would sit nicely on any Quiet Storm radio feature. Vocalist on the former, by the way is Jalen Seawright, while on the latter Kevin Lewis takes to the mic. The track I keep coming back to though is a lovely mid-tempo groove called 'Wait Awhile'. It's the set's most soul-based tune and reminded me of the great David Sanborn in its focus on that magic groove. Listen up too to 'Saturday Afternoon' – a pleasing, understated item, with a simple melody that could well be a paean to the fading summer. Like everything on the album it's played with precision and polish and delivered in the way smooth jazz fans have come to expect. Expect 'Can't Help Myself' to follow Greg's two previous albums into the Smooth Jazz Top 50.”

Bill Buckley, Soul&Jazz&Funk

No doubt about it, saxophonist Greg Chambers is a perfectionist. He sets very high standards for his work. Proof of this is listening to his latest record “Can’t Help Myself!” Greg’s last two albums hit big on the music charts, and I predict that his latest album will also win the high approval of critics and fans alike. An accomplished classical saxophonist and instructor, Chambers has proven that he can also write, groove, and lay down some very appealing tracks as a contemporary Jazz artist. He is truly a resourceful and multitalented musician/arranger. When you have eminent people as part of your team, you kind of feel that you are in for something really good. Start off with Nate Harasim and Matt Godina as your producers, and add to that the esteemed guest talents of bassist Julian Vaughn, guitarist Paul Brown, Nils and Nate Harasim on guitar and keys respectively. So, it just figures that “Can’t Help Myself” will offer a treasure of music! The title track, “Can’t Help Myself” is an instantly catchy opening penned by Chambers and Harasim. Julian Vaughn’s impactful bass on “In the Moment” adds a fresh creative treat. “So Into You” and “Off the Cuff” both show how musically generous Chambers is as a leader; he allows his musicians to add their own identity…their own spice… this makes for a rewarding experience for everyone. Borrowing a word from K-Ci and Jo Jo’s hit “All My Life,” it would be hard to find a cover version of their song that’s “sweeter” than Chambers’ version here! Jalen Seawright has the right approach vocally, and of course Greg and Nate are their usual tasteful selves. Paul Brown’s always impressive guitar sets up and supports a horn fortified Chambers/Godina tune-- “It’s On.” Greg Chambers’ very likeable, warm, free-flowing sax style, along with a great supporting cast of producers, arrangers, musicians, and vocalists make this new project “Can’t Help Myself” quite rewarding for him…and for his listeners.”

Joe Caroselli, Jazz Monthly

Smooth Jazz Therapy has been following the fortunes of sax-man Greg Chambers since 2007 and the release of his debut recording ‘City Lights’.  At the time I described it as  “an album different enough to get him noticed” and then delighted in watching his musical progression as, first with his 2011 self-titled follow up and again with the seven-track 2013 EP ‘After Hours’, he proceeded to carve out his own musical identity.  Now this progression continues with the sparkling ‘Can’t Help Myself’.  Not only is it his most commercial to date but is also a wonderful showcase for his combined talents as songwriter, producer and performer.  No doubt about it, ‘Can’t Help Myself’ is the real smooth jazz deal and, with input from the likes of Paul Brown, Nate Harasim, Nils and Julian Vaughn, is a timely reminder of how good contemporary jazz can be when done this well. Talking of doing things well, the CD opens with the fabulously zesty title cut that benefits from input from co-writer Harasim on keys.  He stays around to lend a hand with the mid-tempo ‘Off The Cuff’ that includes a nice interjection of guitar from Nils and is another of three songs he co-writes with Chambers.  In fact Chambers writes or co-writes nine of the eleven choice tunes, five of them with guitarist and keyboard player Matt Godina.  On this showing Chambers and Godina are establishing themselves as one of the genre’s most formidable song writing partnerships and a case in point is the languid ‘It’s On’ for which Paul Brown guests on guitar.  Just as good is the infectiously up-tempo ‘In The Moment’ (featuring bass guitar from rising star Julian Vaughn) while another Chambers - Godina number is the immensely feel-good ‘So Into You’ that is arguably amongst the best that ‘Can’t Help Myself’ has to offer.  That said, they prove themselves to be equally adept when easing things down and they do just that, first with the super sultry ‘Come A Little Closer’ and again for the similarly disposed ‘Wait Awhile’ that just tips the scales as Smooth Jazz Therapy top track.  Elsewhere Godina takes the lead on guitar for the relaxed groove of ‘Saturday Afternoon’ and although Chambers closes out the collection with the romantically inclined ‘Dreaming Of You’ he slips effortlessly into urban jazz territory for a sensational take on the Boyz II Men smash ‘Lovely’ where vocals from Kevin Lewis really hit the spot and bass from the always excellent Roberto Vally provides the perfect anchor.  The album’s other cover is ‘All My Life’ that was a hit for R & B duo K-Ci & JoJo but which here is given a lighter, more angelic touch courtesy of vocals of Jalen Seawright.  It is a brilliant example of the light and shade that Chambers has crammed into ‘Can’t Help Myself’ and another reason, among many, why you should make it part of your collection.”

Denis Poole, Smooth Jazz Therapy

Saxophonist Greg Chambers has been enjoying what must be a most satisfying high for him as he splits his time between making solid-grooved contemporary jazz music as a solo artist and serving as a private woodwind instructor in the San Francisco Bay area.  Having worked with symphonies and orchestras as a classical saxophonist, Chambers seems to keep quite busy. His dedication to the smooth jazz genre is commendable in light of all of his other activities. As evidence of that commitment, he now steps out again with another pleasing project called Can’t Help Myself. Remaining true to a cool, fluid style that plays well in the smooth jazz community, the album contains an abundance of tasteful grooves including but not limited to the up-tempo lead and title track, an equally movin’ and shakin’ track two entitled  “In The Moment” (an apropos title as I’m sure that is exactly where he was as he co-penned this one with multi-instrumentalist Matt Godina), the smooth and steady dancer “So Into You,” a laid-back and sexy “It’s On,” an effective and soulful cover of K-Ci & JoJo’s “All My Life,” and a cozy soprano sax presence found on the mid-tempo “Saturday Afternoon.” The saxman is joined here by some well-known and admired artists in the biz, namely guitarist/producer Paul Brown (who will be releasing his own impressive project shortly), the personable and talented keyboardist/producer Nate Harasim, funky guitarist Nils, and the always-“on” bassist Julian Vaughn. In addition to the beckon of Chambers’ sax, I must say that the backing keys/piano, guitar, and strings work on several of the slower, romantic tracks (e.g., “Come a Little Closer,” “Lovely,” and the riveting finale – sans drums or percussions – “Dreaming of You”) are simply more than worthy of a listen. Add to that the wonderful vocals found on the previously mentioned “Lovely” and provided by Kevin Lewis, and you’ve got a project that carries a lot of the confident stride of a well-produced effort. In a nutshell, Chambers, having established that he has a firm handle on the nuances, flavors, and soul of this music, has again accomplished his goal to satisfy. – Ronald Jackson”

Ronald Jackson, Smooth Jazz Ride

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