CHALLENGE RECORDS, MAY 2019

BOB SHEPPARD, Saxophones, flute, alto flute,

JOHN BEASLEY, Piano

JASPER SOMSEN, Double Bass

KENDRICK SCOTT, Drums

Guest artists:

MIKE COTTONE, Trumpet

SIMON MOULLIER, Vibraphone

MARIA PUGA LAREO, Vocals

BENJAMIN SHEPHERD, Electric Bass

AARON SAFARTY, Shaker

BUY/DOWNLOAD/STREAM:

AMAZON MUSIC, ITUNES, SPOTIFY, DEEZER, TIDAL & FNAC.


Bob Sheppard’s first calling as a jazz saxophonist blankets a striking roster: Freddie Hubbard, Chick Corea, Steely Dan, Herbie Hancock, Mike Stern, Billy Childs, Lyle Mays, Steps Ahead, Randy Brecker, Michael Brecker, Scott Henderson, Peter Erskine, John Beasley, Bob Mintzer, Joni Mitchell, Dianne Reeves, and Natalie Cole among many others. Sheppard’s diverse skills have been highly engaged for decades as a touring and studio musician on an expansive range of recordings and film, including his four solo albums.
Sheppard’s brand new recording, “The Fine Line” on Challenge Records is a platform for his multi-instrumental and arranging talents. This long-awaited CD features confederate and fellow traveler John Beasley on piano, Kendrick Scott on drums, and Dutch bassist/ co-producer Jasper Somsen on bass. Additional players, vibraphonist Simon Moullier, Ben Shepherd-Electric Bass, Mike Cottone-Trumpet, and Maria Puga Lareo-vocals are spotlighted.
The title track “The Fine Line” displays a lilting Brazilian original, featuring flute and vocal sweetening by Sheppard and his wife. Other originals demonstrating Sheppard’s love for melody and rich harmonies include “Joegenic” written for Joe Henderson and “Maria’s Tango”.
'It seems that the older I get, the more I want to explore the velvety, understated textures of the saxophone.”
"I’m excited to share this recording, performed by musicians that demonstrate the highest regard to the creative process, love of harmony, groove, pretty notes, and the joy of playing.“