Tomorrow Today

Tomorrow Today- Album Overview

Released in 1990, Tomorrow Today is the fifth studio album by the legendary jazz and soul vocalist Al Jarreau, showcasing his distinctive blend of jazz, pop, and R&B. The album was produced by Jarreau himself in collaboration with noted producer and songwriter, Jay Graydon, known for his work with artists like Earth, Wind & Fire and the band Ambrosia. Released under the Reprise Records label, Tomorrow Today features a total of 10 tracks, including the standout singles "We're in This Love Together" and "After All." These compositions reflect Jarreau's signature vocal style, characterized by smooth phrasing and innovative scatting. The album was recorded during a period where Jarreau was exploring new sonic territories, merging contemporary pop sensibilities with traditional jazz elements. Collaborators on the album include acclaimed musicians such as David Foster and Michael McDonald, contributing to the rich tapestry of sound. The album's production quality is high, featuring lush arrangements and intricate instrumentation that enhance Jarreau’s vocal prowess. With themes of love, hope, and unity, Tomorrow Today resonates deeply within the cultural context of the early '90s, a time when music was increasingly becoming a platform for personal and social expression. The album solidified Jarreau's status as a versatile artist capable of transcending genres and appealing to a wide audience.

Review

Tomorrow Today is a testament to Al Jarreau's exceptional vocal abilities and his knack for storytelling through music. The album opens with "After All," a smooth, romantic piece that sets the tone for the entire project, featuring Jarreau's signature ability to convey emotion through his voice. The arrangements are lush, supporting his intricate vocal lines without overshadowing them. "We're in This Love Together" highlights Jarreau's ability to blend jazz with a pop sensibility, creating an infectious groove that remains memorable long after the track ends. Lyrically, the album reflects themes of love and togetherness, resonating with listeners on a personal level. Jarreau’s improvisational style shines throughout, particularly in tracks like "My Friend" and "What’s Going On," where his scatting and vocal runs elevate the compositions. The production, marked by crisp instrumentation and harmonies, complements Jarreau's artistry, making it a cohesive listening experience. However, while the album is strong, it occasionally leans towards conventional pop structures, which might not appeal to all jazz purists. Overall, Tomorrow Today is a rich, engaging album that showcases Jarreau’s versatility and depth as an artist.

Highlights

• Exceptional vocal performance showcasing Jarreau's range and improvisational skills.
• Strong production quality with lush arrangements that complement the vocals.
• Memorable, catchy singles that resonate with both jazz and pop audiences.

Weak points

• Some tracks may feel formulaic for listeners seeking more experimental jazz.
• Occasional reliance on pop structures that could detract from jazz purity.
• Limited exploration of deeper jazz themes compared to earlier works.

Overall evaluation

Tomorrow Today stands as a significant entry in Al Jarreau's discography, fusing jazz, pop, and R&B in a way that showcases his unique talent and broad appeal. While it has moments that might not fully satisfy jazz purists, the album's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.