Magic and jazz merge together for a sweet troop tribute
In the early Eighties, Mystic Merlin was trying to get their magic off the ground. Despite kicking out three albums of funk on Capitol Records (click here) and even introducing the world to the velvety voice of Freddie Jackson, the New York-based band failed to drop their abracadabra on the world. Decades since their dissolve, Barry Strutt and Clyde Bullard are making a big splash on the recording world with a new single for jazz singer Carolyn Leonhart. On the Strutt-penned “Waiting for the Day,” Leonhart – a product of the talented Leonhart jazz family – walks on the track using the grace of Sade as the Najee-sounding background sways with the comforts of Quiet Storm tapestry. The companion concept video also carries the same kind of poise. Brilliant hues, dreamy imagery and romantic undertones all decorate the landscape, even if the video hints at the serious issue of the fatigue spouses have to endure with involving their military-working mates. “Half asleep, half awake/waiting for the day,” Leonhart coos, as if she’s sending a love letter via Western Union. The good thing about the song is that its lyrics are applicable to any situation. The problem with the video is that, even though it tells a touching story, the sensual mood of the music nullifies much of the seriousness of its message. Still, you wouldn’t have caught this exotic tune on a Mystic Merlin record. The only funk embedded in the tune is in Bullard’s slapstick bass. Overall, it perfectly uncovers the versatility in their fingers; these magicians are far from being a one trick pony.

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J Matthew Cobb
Managing editor of HiFi Magazine
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