He seems to be serious: Jon Batiste writes the album title BIG MONEY entirely in capital letters – as he does his own name. Whether R&B can actually be a big moneymaker is a question that the labels are better placed to answer than the artists themselves. And the album? Does it have potential?

The Oscar and seven-time Grammy winner has compiled nine tracks with a playing time of 32:27 minutes for his latest album. They oscillate between R&B, reggae, light jazz influences, and a touch of folk and fun. Musically, much of it sounds familiar, although it is sometimes unclear whether this is done stylistically to enrich a genre with new facets or to poke fun at the style or mannerisms of some of its performers with a wink. Never mind.

Do It All Again is a delicate, charming ballad that gently whispers in your ears, while Pinnacle creates a party atmosphere with a nasal guitar, brushes on the drum set, and multi-layered vocals. Lonely Avenue takes you to the pitch-black clubs of the Lower East Side well after midnight. And Big Money brings simple blues with harp, gospel handclaps, and vocals to the imaginary stage. And it's definitely worth following the lyrics.

Musically, the album is definitely a force to be reckoned with, and it's powerful too. The musicians play very compactly and tangibly close to the ear. Rarely have I heard a recording that filled the listening room with such a physical presence. Everything is correspondingly well located and tangible, thanks in part to the very restrained use of reverb.

The bottom line? BIG MONEY by Jon Batiste is undoubtedly enjoyable. (Thomas Semmler, HighResMac)

Jon Batiste

Photo: ©David Needleman