by Paula Edelstein
Kim Waters ninth album, Love's Melody was released in 1998 by Shanachie and dedicated to his twin girls. Self-produced with Chuck Loeb, Dino Esposito, Scot Rammer, and David Mann, the CD offers 11 sensitive and enchanting tracks with special guest performances by Chuck Loeb and James Lloyd. In a deviation from Waters' R&B-flavored background, Waters asserts his mastery of the soprano saxophone on this smooth collection of well-crafted tunes. Each composition adds a different dimension to his musical catalog. Lush, poetic rhythms combined with mid-tempo grooves and fresh melodies on songs such as &Nightfall& and &Possession,& and assure his success in the contemporary jazz style. Waters' saxophone caters to the senses with the grace of a romantic on the beautiful title track &Love's Melody.& His soprano saxophone speaks volumes with the mastery of tone and musicianship that defines the sensual nature of the saxophone. &Two Hearts of Mine,& a ballad written for his twins, is compassionate and offers his most personal and intimate song to date. Other well-known works such as &Sunny& and &Midnight at the Oasis& are brilliantly distinct, with Waters lending former renditions fresh breath. The resulting creative ideas offer a splendid showcase of his eloquent, trademark saxophone voice.