Fourplay’s 1995 release, Elixir, is a masterclass in suave, pristine smooth jazz and contemporary R&B fusion, defined by immaculate production and effortless instrumental dialogue. Featuring supergroup members Bob James (keyboards), Lee Ritenour (guitar), Nathan East (bass/vocals), and Harvey Mason (drums), the album's sonic footprint is silky, warm, and hyper-polished. Keyboards shift seamlessly between crystalline electric piano chords and lush, ambient synth beds, anchored by Lee Ritenour’s signature fluid, hollow-body Gibson guitar tone and signature octaves. Nathan East’s 6-string basswork delivers a punchy, warm low end complemented by his subtle, unison vocal scat-singing, while Harvey Mason provides a buttery-smooth, tight pocket with delicate cymbal work and crisp rimshots. Interspersed with soulful guest vocal appearances from Phil Collins, Chaka Khan, and El DeBarge, Elixir encapsulates the peak mid-90s smooth jazz sound—sophisticated, mid-tempo, and impeccably refined.
Fourplay’s 1995 release, Elixir, is a masterclass in suave, pristine smooth jazz and contemporary R&B fusion, defined by immaculate production and effortless instrumental dialogue. Featuring supergroup members Bob James (keyboards), Lee Ritenour (guitar), Nathan East (bass/vocals), and Harvey Mason (drums), the album's sonic footprint is silky, warm, and hyper-polished. Keyboards shift seamlessly between crystalline electric piano chords and lush, ambient synth beds, anchored by Lee Ritenour’s signature fluid, hollow-body Gibson guitar tone and signature octaves. Nathan East’s 6-string basswork delivers a punchy, warm low end complemented by his subtle, unison vocal scat-singing, while Harvey Mason provides a buttery-smooth, tight pocket with delicate cymbal work and crisp rimshots. Interspersed with soulful guest vocal appearances from Phil Collins, Chaka Khan, and El DeBarge, Elixir encapsulates the peak mid-90s smooth jazz sound—sophisticated, mid-tempo, and impeccably refined.