Lee Ritenour - Festival (LP)

Lee Ritenour's 1988 album "Festival" is a vibrant journey through the diverse landscapes of jazz, blending smooth jazz, jazz fusion, yacht rock, jazz funk, and cool jazz into a cohesive and engaging collection. Released under Concord Records, this remastered edition invites you to explore nine tracks that showcase Ritenour's mastery of the guitar and his ability to create infectious grooves and memorable melodies.

Opening with "Night Rhythms," the album sets a sultry, late-night mood that carries through to tracks like "Latin Lover" and "Humana," where Ritenour's fusion of Latin rhythms and jazz harmonies creates an irresistible dance of sound. "Rio Sol" and "Voce É Linda" further emphasize the album's international flavor, with Brazilian influences adding a touch of warmth and exoticism.

The album's midpoint offers a moment of reflection with "Waiting For You," a tender ballad that highlights Ritenour's expressive playing. The title track, "Festival," brings a lively, celebratory energy, while "New York / Brazil" and "The Inner Look" close the album with a blend of urban sophistication and introspective jazz.

With a runtime of just over 43 minutes, "Festival" is a concise yet satisfying exploration of Lee Ritenour's musical versatility. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his work, this album offers a delightful mix of styles that's sure to captivate and entertain.

This LP was released in 1989.