We Are One (OZmosis Records, 2014)
Jazz drummer Omar Hakim produced, arranged and engineered his new album We Are One at his OZmosis recording studios. He presents a mix of formidable fusion along with predictable smooth jazz. The first cut ‘Transmigration’ demonstrates Hakim’s passion for blistering jazz-rock fusion with stellar performances by Hakim on drums, Scott Tibbs on keyboards, Rachel Z on synthesizer, Chieli Minucci on guitar and Jerry Brooks on bass.
‘Carpe Diem’ has a pop feel. It’s followed by a laid back bluesy smooth jazz piece where the best part by far is the exquisite electric guitar solo by Jimi Tunnel.
Smooth funk-jazz continues in ‘Remember to Remember.’ Fiery fusion returns on ‘Walk the Walk’ with Omar Hakim demonstrating his impressive skill as a drummer. Bassist Jerry Brooks gets to show his dexterity on the funk-infused ‘So There.’
Jazz harmonica fans will enjoy ‘Listen up!’ with a solid performance by Gregoire Maret.
State of the art fusion with Echoes of Weather Report and Return to Forever appears on ‘Molasses Run’ with impressive performances by saxophonist Bobby Franceschini, keyboardist Scott Tibbs, guitarist Chieli Minucci and the vibrant rhythm section.
Back to smooth jazz on ‘Forever Friend.’ The last piece, ‘We Are One’ demonstrates that Omar Hakim is more than a drummer. Omar shows that he is an outstanding multi-instrumentalist, playing piano, keyboards, guitar, solo and bass synths, drums, percussion and drums.
Buy We Are One