Pianist
Joe Sample is a pioneer at creating melodic and accessible pop-jazz. His recordings of the 1970s and '80s were consistently popular, especially this best-seller.
Sample is joined on most selections by fellow Crusader
Stix Hooper on drums, electric bassist
Abraham Laboriel, percussionist
Paulinho Da Costa, and, often, guitarist Dean Parks. Flutist
Hubert Laws guests on "Midnight and Mist." The memorable melodies, clean harmonics, and
Sample's fine playing make
Carmel a high point among his solo recordings. ~ Scott Yanow