Al DeGregoris: Review/Press

ALL ABOUT JAZZ
May 2008, Vol. 6 No. 4
By Geroge Harris

Keyboardist extraordinaire Al DeGregoris has put out another recording of fun and funky jazz that mixes the groove of Joe Sample with the synthesized textures of Stevie Wonder with elan and remarkable grace. Unashamedly plugged in and proud, DeGregoris lays down infectious smooth reggae grooves on the contagiously catchy opening selection, “J Walkin” that gives Bob Marley’s beat an added jolt of electricity. The hip-hopping beat and bouncy base of “Hot Potato” also features some clever contrasting minimalist piano work that mingles the best of Count Basie with Marcus Miller. Likewise, the Motown snap of “Here To Jersey” includes some guitar work that will cause fans of Wah Wah Watson to rejoice. Some raucous guitar work and infectious keyboard riffs make “BC’s Bounce” a joy, as the no-holds-barred, dizzying Latin party onslaught, mixed with the seductive flute voicings make “North Shore Sunset” a tune that will keep your party working overtime. Smooth jazz fans will like the accessibility, and fans ‘70s R&B will wonder why this music isn’t more prevalent. Seek out three before midnight. It will keep your grooving 24/7.

SMOOTHJAZZ.com
Listening Loft
By Scott O'Brian

Composer and keyboardist Al DeGregoris scores big here with an album of originals that combines traditional melodic jazz licks with the contemporary sensibilities of Smooth Jazz. The Long Island, New York native started it all at the age of 4, when he first played piano. From there it was sax at six, writing his first song and starting his first band at 7, and his first paid gig at 13! Intensive musical studies in both classical and jazz piano, designing and building his own studios, wowing audiences in some of New York’s most posh venues, and winning numerous awards for his compositions and performances has led at last to this dazzling debut recording, THREE BEFORE MIDNIGHT. Everything on this album is an original composition, and every instrument you hear is played by DeGregoris. He writes lush, compelling melodies, and combines them beautifully with an assortment of happening urban, hip hop, and Latin grooves, bringing everything from an uptown NYC feel to tropical Afro-Cuban and Brazilian vibes. This project is loaded with the good stuff… from the soft, pensive “Finding Forever” to the beguiling title track to the exuberant “Hot Potato,” plus everything in-between. I especially like the lyrical “Day Dreams,” the cinematic “Into the Light,” and the festive “BC’s Bounce.” THREE BEFORE MIDNIGHT from Al DeGregoris is great music from an extraordinarily talented musician! ~SCOTT O'BRIEN

RADIOINDY.com
By William & the RadioIndy Review Team

"Three Before Midnight" by Al DeGregoris is an impressive instrumental smooth jazz album cleverly infected with urban and Latin grooves. The composition is the true strength of this album. Al writes really nice lines and ties them together just as well. There are many interesting nuances within these tracks. There is a "New Yorkness" about Al's sound. Not so much because of the fusion of sounds, but because of the hazy vibe Al creates. The musicianship, especially the piano and keyboard work, throughout the CD is excellent. The album sounds great, is well produced and jumps right out of the speakers. Highlights include the opener "’J’ Walkin"' with a quirky jazz line, nice changes and a tropical feel. "Hot Potato" features a deep House beat and memorable piano work. "Into the Light" has a dramatic flair to it and a nice progression. If you enjoy instrumental jazz, you'll enjoy this impressive CD.
-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team