This jazz quartet out of Honolulu has most certainly found the groove with Groovology’s debut release titled ‘Almost Home’. Variety is the spice of life and Groovology delivers a wide variety of musical spices to tempt your senses on the new album. 11 original compositions fill your ears with joy as sensational solos can be heard by Groovology on ‘Almost Home’.
The Groovology lineup is made up of four talented musicians and they are: Aaron Aranita on woodwinds and piano, David Yamasaki on guitar, Ernie Provencher on bass, and Scott Shafer on drums. The album also features Sandra Tsukiyama who gives a bang-up, vocal performance on the song titled “Manoa”. There is much depth on ‘Almost Home’ as Groovology mixes it up nicely and keeps it fresh from track to track. Never a dull moment when you listen to ‘Almost Home’ and it’s hard to believe that this is a debut release. Groovology sounds like a seasoned group that has been cutting quality records for years. The fact of the matter is that Groovology has arrived with ‘Almost Home’ by giving the listening audience plenty to chew on.
The album kicks off with the title track, “Almost Home” and immediately the positive vibe welcomes you in. “Almost Home” includes smooth stylings, a wonderful arrangement, stellar instrumentation and just a comforting sound overall. An infectious melody to go along with captivating rhythm patterns can be heard on “Mambosaki”. Next, the quartet is in the zone and feelin’ the flow on “Groovology” where delightful notes tickle your musical palette. There is such a cool vibe in place on “Groovology” and it keeps the listener engaged from start to finish. Groovology is making you smile with pristine playing and superb musical direction on “Bubbles The Clown”. Now, it’s time to head down “The Path” where things are a bit uncertain and time is traveling at a slower speed. There is a strong connection between Groovology and the listener on “The Path” where this voyage will lead one to a destination of great enlightenment. Prepare to wake up your senses as “Brisa Tropical” is shining bright for all to hear and makes for one excellent experience. We now move on to “The Road Less Traveled” where you will be surprised as you embark on this musical journey. “The Road Less Traveled” has just the right amount of hills & curves to venture through and can be open to interpretation. Track eight, “Headroom”, offers a smooth finish & classy touch as this number is making major headway on the airwaves. An appealing voice instantly draws you in on “Manoa” where the vocal dynamics are simply on point and pleasing to hear. A delicate texture & tone is detected on the following composition “Slybone” as Groovology is playing like true champs. The record ends with “The Path (Extended Version)” where Groovology is still going strong and heading in the right direction. “The Path” leads to this exact point where everything comes full circle for the quartet from Hawaii.
‘Almost Home’ is due out January 1, 2025, so an early Happy New Year to Groovology and hoping for much success with the new release! ‘Almost Home’ contains outstanding material by skilled musicians and I sense that Groovology will be adored and respected by many in the music world. ‘Almost Home’ is jazzy joy that will make you feel good as Groovology plays on!
https://aaronaranitamusic.com/
https://www.davidyamasaki.live/
By Jimmy Rae
