A Time for Love is another set of reinterpretations from
Jeffrey Osborne, but the singer switches it up, reunites with
George Duke -- producer of his first three solo albums -- and is backed by an undeniable lineup of jazz musicians. Drummer John Roberts, bassist
Christian McBride, and keyboardist
Duke are the rhythm section on every cut. They're joined by a rotating mix of support that includes guitarist
Paul Jackson, Jr., trumpeters
Walt Fowler and
Rick Braun, and saxophonists
Kamasi Washington and
Everette Harp.
Osborne and the musicians recorded while in one another's presence. It adds depth and intimacy to the songs -- a positive trade-off for the listeners who aren't all that anxious to hear the umpteenth versions of "What a Wonderful World," "Nature Boy," and "(They Long to Be) Close to You." Another aspect that shines through is
Osborne's deep connection to the material; he clearly knows it all inside-out, enough to add his own touches with little effort, and evidently had a ball. Most entertaining of all is a version of "Baby, It's Cold Outside," throughout which
Osborne and duet partner
Chaka Khan swap naturally humorous dialogue. ~ Andy Kellman