Nathan East • Self Titled • Yamaha Entertainment Group • Producers: Chris Gero and Nathan East • Score: 8/10
This is an extremely eclectic album filled with so many delightful surprises and engaging musical avenues. When you’ve played with everyone from Clapton and Collins to Whitney and Streisand, you’ve got quite a well of experience to draw from. And bassist/producer/songwriter East takes full advantage of that on this solo debut. The leader steps out brilliantly with an instrumental take on Stevie Wonder’s “Sir Duke.” He also coaxes an absolutely unparalleled performance of Van Morrison’s “Moondance” out of guest Michael McDonald. There is a sweet rendition of “Yesterday,” with East’s 13-year-old son Noah and some original jazz and funk to round things out. – Eric A. Harabadian
