Biography

Granddaddy Mack started playing piano at the age of 4. Mainly self-taught. After hours and weeks of listening to his favorite artists, he decided its time for him to leave his mark. If you listen closely you can hear different artists styles and chops in most of his pieces.

Fans of LTJ Bukem and Herbie Hancock will undoubtedly gravitate to Grand Daddy Mack. This multifaceted artist has the goods to excel at any musical endeavor he chooses. His style lends itself to many given classifications: Acid Jazz, R&B, Easy, but most of all his delivery is atmospheric and spacious while remaining musically coherent. The Best of GDM is a looking glass into the many layers of Grand Daddy Mack. Tracks like "I don't Care" and "Ur Killing Me" are sophisticated jazzy numbers that pulse with electronic beats and claps. These cuts bear a striking resemblance to the beautifully crafted Journey Inwards record by Bukem, with their cascading sweeps and smooth sonic signature. "Wake Me" drops a softer side of Mack, driven by piano licks and electro blips and bleeps. The composition is focused and soothing without getting monotonous. If you enjoy smooth jazz or ambient music (which can encompass many differing types of easy listening) you must give this compilation a listen. Grand Daddy has selected some of his greatest works for Best of GDM, and the sequencing makes for a grand tour of his musical arsenal. MM

Those familiar with Grand Daddy Mack's signature sound should embrace In the Box. This record showcases the groovier side of this multitalented artist. While remaining loyal to his jazzy roots, there are shades of deep house throughout Box, and it compliments his compositions wonderfully. Make no mistake, Grand Daddy would not release a tedious album of 4/4 beats and simple horn structures. By choosing to liven up the music with more a techy, drivy, and house-like vibe he widens his audience without alienating his dedicated listening base. "Blowin My Mind" is a classic example. Here we get classic Mack with new flavor: A jazzy feel, yet the track is driven by its drums and intricate samples. The rhythm is infectious and smooth, bouncy yet tightly composed. The growing popularity of "Now you Know" (this cut has been a favorite of late here at earbuzz) exemplifies his ability to capture new fans without diluting the formulaic groove that has worked for him in the past. The main hook in this cut is the sample, but he doesn't let it take hold of the song. In the Box is an album that actually jumps outside the box for Granddaddy Mack, and proves he can bring the funk with a dash of jazz. MM

Grand Daddy Mack's, "Just a Note" album is a splendid marriage of electronic beats and jazzy compositions. While the theme may fall onto the easy listening shelf, that label is misguided here. The complexities of the tracks are far more engaging than most artists in the easy genre. That section in the record store has been inundated with sleeper albums aimed at the uninspired. Just a Note is much more than that. Mack has crafted an exquisite journey of ethereal rhythms, airy horns and funky down beats. The title tracks horn arrangement should satisfy any Kenny G fan looking for a little soul with their performance. He lets his chops on the bass go for "Lucky for You", then adds a fantastic change that leaves you with little doubt about his keyboard mastery. Vocals are utilized as a compliment to his instrumental prowess, and are tastefully executed. His mysterious and inventive cover of Donny Hathaway?s "A Song for You" is gorgeous and unique. Top all that off with a homage to another influence in "Miles away" and you?ve been given an education in this artists musical roots. MM

GDM moved to Richmond, CA in his young musical life where he started going to all the jazz clubs in SF., HalfNote, PlayPen, Kimbal's East, Fillmore West, checking out cats like Miles Davis, Stanley Turrentine, Buddy Guy, Jimi Hendrix. These jazz legends influence can be heard in his music today.

You can get all GDM CD's at:

Earbuzz. com, Walmart, Dimple Records,
Virgin Records, Rasputins, CDBaby.com, Amazon.com or order direct online at:

http://Kunaki.com/MSales.asp?PublisherId=110807


Official Website:

GDM Music Studio Website:
http://gdmmusicproductions.com

I've heard it all and that's real jazz...yo time is up.

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