by Andrew Hamilton
A masterfully executed, eight-song set from lady flautist supreme, Bobbi Humphrey, her first since the 1989 Malaco Record release, City Beats. On &The Magic, the Music,& the guitarist sounds hopelessly in love; his playing is fluent and equally matched by Humphrey's distinct tones, and a smooth male tenor who shines on vocals. Velvet and delicious best describe &Passion Flute,& the mainstream title track, where Bobbi puts some added oomph into her performance, every note is clear and distinct, the lovely backing voices don't hurt the ears either. A surprise update of &Harlem River Drive,& one of her most popular recordings, makes this essential. She first recorded it in the '70s; the new version is just as hammering and compelling. &Rainbows& displays the brilliance of Humphrey, the slow ballad will cause tears to fall; her soprano voice is as marvelous as it was on &Just a Love Child,& from Black & Blues. Her vocal and flute work on &Tobago Nights& is borderline MOR with jazz overtones, and Bobbi makes it work. &Steppin' Out& is a sweet mid-tempo excursion. Her playing and singing show maturity and patience, but are as captivating as ever.