Mars Lasar has always been an artist who is on the cutting edge. With that attribute comes an artist that refuses to stereotype himself and who has explored themes such as evocative nature recordings, electronic chill out, ambient to straight up reflective lullabies. A brilliant artist, his listening public can always expect the unexpected. This time around Lasar explores smooth jazz with the unique touch one has come to expect from Mars, emphasizing mood over melody.

Upon the opening bar of the album, you immediately realize that you are in for unique blend of mainstream smooth jazz with a twist of Lasar drum loops and sound manipulation that he is famous for. Most of the album focuses on the sensual smoky jazz feeling with significant assistance coming from the in demand session player Greg Vail on saxophones and flute. The album also includes one vocal track, “Sometimes” that features the chanting of Cadence. But without a doubt the highlight of the album is “Sweet Summer Haze” which presents the albums most distinct and obvious melody. Though smoldering in the smooth jazz genre, the song is smothered in a Lasar melody and it is probably the most commercial effort on the album with “Once Upon A Star” coming a close second.

However, the album is not about being safe but about further artistic exploration which may explain why Lasar choose to distribute it via his website versus his new recording label Gemini Sun Records. Keeping his artistic integrity in line, if you are a fan of the smooth jazz genre with a slight twist, at the end of the day this is an album worth exploring.