Just Jazz Magazine Review
by Just Jazz: the TRADITIONAL JAZZ magazine | Issue No. 247
Raincoats and Other Short Stories The 500 Hats Music Co: No number
Total playing time: 23m 00s
Raincoats; Maybe It's You; She Remains; Captured; Someday; Games You Play
Scot Gray (vocals), Ben Jackson (drums), Dave Cohen (piano, keyboards), Nate Dugger (guitar), Mat Melton (bass), Scot Trayer (bass), Mark Evits (strings), Vinnie Ciesielski (brass), Tyler
Summers (reeds), Cherie Oakley, Paul Umbach (background vocalists)
Something a little bit different came my way to review. Vocalist, Scott Gray is ready to give the listener more than just background noise. His careful crafting of his pop-jazz project, 'Raincoats and Other Short Stories, is proof of that. His focus and dedication to host them through a journey to articulate life has resulted in a sophisticated sound accompanied by a collection of well-told stories. Scott who grew up in Southern Illinois listening to songwriters such as Sting and Amy Grant, says; "I think for anyone who is passionate about music, the personal experience is part of the enjoyment for them. We are all looking for connection. I want them to feel like they were included - a part of the process."
In an industry that many would say is dying of recycling old sounds, he finds freedom in creating his unique sound that gives him license to be himself. Playing with new rules through unexpected melodies, this Nashville-based singer/songwriter is pushing the boundaries of what other artists have done: taking stories and making them songs, then inviting the listener to escape into the lyrics. For Scott, the music isn't about him. It's about the listener. Although he's sat behind the piano for many years before this debut project, he has been on a journey through some of the same emotions that have led these songs to identify with his audience.
Not exactly required listening for the New Orleans or Traditional jazz buff, but worthy as an addition to the 'Easy Listening Jazz school. For those who own a more liberal ear with their jazz listening this may just suit. And once you hear it, it may be worth repeating.