A warm day in the Valley led to a beautiful Saturday night under the stars at the Grove in Sacramento. I made the quick 25 minute drive to catch Sax-man Kim Waters who was welcoming vocalist Kenny Lattimore as featured guest.

Waters is pegged into the "smooth jazz" category. That label "smooth jazz" is bad for business in my opinion (but that's another story). I went in un-hip to Waters' abilities or his general sound. The show was actually sponsored by the local "smooth jazz" station. ...To me - smooth jazz is poop. I think of a drum machine, and an alto sax. It is never loud enough - never funky enough.

I hit the show in support of my buddy Bobby Gonzalez - playing the guitar in Water's & Lattimore's band. What I was surprised to learn was that Waters gets down with a LIVE drummer - in this case Mike White (of Maze fame).

With his brother on bass, a keyboard player (from ATL - didn't catch his name), Bobby G., and White - Kim Waters played his heart out on a variety of saxophones.

Lattimore joined the band mid-show and did several songs from his Timeless CD. Dude can really sing! His enthusiasm and soulful showmanship worked with the audience and despite singing many slow jam-ish tunes - he managed to keep it generally upbeat.

The highlight of the night for me was Lattimore's stirring version of "Starship" (Norman Conners).

Overall - I really liked most of Lattimore's set and while Waters was cool - the saxophone as the main ingredient just isn't my thing.

But the weather was nice, people watching was on point, and most importantly - I got my backside out of the house on a Saturday night! ...Life is alright - maybe even cool.