Saxophonist Roderick Cotton grew up with a love of music. Though he appreciated a broad range of styles and genres, his heart has always been with R&B and Jazz. When his family moved from Rock Island, IL to Mobile, AL he picked up the saxophone and found his voice. In the ensuing years, Roderick found his audience too.
In 2008 he released his debut album “Modification.” On that record Cotton introduced his unique mix of Smooth Jazz and improvisation. The album’s positive reception led to gigs throughout the rich Jazz scene of the Gulf Coast region. He performed on the Miller Light Stage at the Bayfest Music Festival in Mobile, AL and at the Cutting Edge Music Business Conference in New Orleans, LA.
“Transitions” is Roderick Cotton’s long-awaited sophomore album. The record continues the artist’s explorations through R&B, Blues and Jazz. He says the recording, “is for the grown and sexy who enjoy fusing different genres to create the perfect sound.”
“Switch Lanes” is the lead single and closing track on “Transitions.” The track has the mellow feel of Smooth Jazz with the heart of traditional R&B. The style and production of the track have an 80’s flare, in the syle of fusion Jazz greats like Spyro Gyra or Weather report. Pop melodic elements tie the piece together to create a soulful and funky groove.
Ambient sounds of piano and strings introduce the tune. The rhythm section soon joins in with the laid back groove of a funky drum shuffle and slap bass. Layers of synths gradually join the mix as the track’s energy builds. Each performer takes a brief stint in the spotlight. There is a really nice piano solo at around the 2:40 mark.
However, Roderick’s sax is the star of the show. His leads build in building in intensity as the track progresses. Inspired by Soul-Jazz greats like Grover Washington Jr and Gerald Albright, Roderick expertly blends tasteful R&B phrasings into a cool Jazz funk.
You can hear “Switch Lanes” on the Deep Indie Chill playlist. Follow the links below to connect with Roderick Cotton. Stay in the loop on all of his current and future releases.