Pianist/arranger and smooth jazz veteran David Benoit continues to celebrate 30-plus years of making music, and with his new Heroes album, pays homage to those who have influenced him over the years. Benoit, not surprisingly, takes songs by the likes of piano legends such as Bill Evans, Oscar Peterson and Dave Brubeck. But then he lets his guard down a bit, and takes on a few of his pop idols — Michael Jackson, Elton John, the Beatles and the Doors. You might think the result is akin to elevator music, but when you realize how masterfully Benoit arranges songs like “Light My Fire” and “She’s Leaving Home,” you can’t help but give the guy props. As with most of the smooth jazz genre, this is great for Sunday mornings, quiet dinners or just relaxing. The rest of the time, you’re better off with the original versions. (Peak 2008)
