(April 16, 2024) Chances are if one looked back at the top of the Billboard Smooth Jazz Charts since 2008, multi-instrumentalist Chris “Big Dog” Davis was a constant presence as production guru for many recognizable urban voices like Maysa and Will Downing. And the Waterbury, Connecticut jazzman formed a long partnership playing keyboards for saxophonist Gerald Albright. Through it all, Davis has touched many SoulTracks readers with his own impeccable way around soul, gospel and whatever else the mood may strike.
All those achievements aside, adversity has interrupted his artistic path. Yet Davis’s various health battles for the last several years increased his perseverance, his creative juices and high work ethics on the way to his debut solo effort in 2020, Focus. The 2024 follow-up, After the Storm, continues his quest for finding tranquility through the health jungle, even exploring flamingo and techno vibes.
(April 16, 2024) Chances are if one looked back at the top of the Billboard Smooth Jazz Charts since 2008, multi-instrumentalist Chris “Big Dog” Davis was a constant presence as production guru for many recognizable urban voices like Maysa and Will Downing. And the Waterbury, Connecticut jazzman formed a long partnership playing keyboards for saxophonist Gerald Albright. Through it all, Davis has touched many SoulTracks readers with his own impeccable way around soul, gospel and whatever else the mood may strike.
All those achievements aside, adversity has interrupted his artistic path. Yet Davis’s various health battles for the last several years increased his perseverance, his creative juices and high work ethics on the way to his debut solo effort in 2020, Focus. The 2024 follow-up, After the Storm, continues his quest for finding tranquility through the health jungle, even exploring flamingo and techno vibes.
From After the Storm comes our latest First Listen, “Easy Does It” (Trippin ‘n’ Rhythm) where Davis demonstrates his performance and songwriting levels beyond the production chair. The atmosphere for “Easy Does It” embraces an impeccable quiet storm, thanks to DC Gospel singer Vanessa Williams and Wayne Bruce. While Williams’ heavenly soulful wordless vocal hooks and Bruce’s intricate guitar lines shine in their supportive roles, Davis remains at the forefront as the ensemble leader. This cohesive instrumental showcase is a calm reminder of the will to work through trials that attempt to overtake one’s lifelong purpose. Just call it a therapeutic session, with Davis’s life’s testimony of peace amidst yet another storm. Listen up!
By Peggy Oliver
Chris "Big Dog" Davis feat.
Vanessa Williams & Wayne Bruce
"Easy Does It"