“Pocket City” was the debut album for the late saxophonist Art Porter. It scored well by jazz critics thanks to the production prowess of jazz vet Jeff Lorber who at one time featured Porter's work on a few of his solo albums.
"Close To You", a nice arrangement of Maxi Priest's top 40 smash, gave it a more funkier groove than the original version. The bouncy "Unending" features a energetic bass line along with Porter's piercing sax solo that will take you beyond the clouds topped off with the sexy vocal hooks of Brigette McWilliams and Valerie Davis. "Inside Myself" and "Broken Promises" are soothing tunes strictly to draw in the smooth jazz crowd. "Pocket City" is worth adding to your collection because it satisfies jazz fans with slightly different musical tastes.
Porter who tragically drowned while on tour in Thailand 20 years ago could have received similar recognition with his then contemporaries Everette Harp and Marion Meadows.
Listen to Jazzy 88.9 WCSU Wednesday, March 2 for songs from the album “Pocket City.”