Nu Life Stories

by Scott YanowThe music on saxophonist David McMurray's release is generally funky, utilizes electronic percussion on many of the tracks, and is often quite commercial. Despite all of that, McMurray consistently shows that he is a fine saxophonist, particularly on tenor. His playing is a little reminiscent of Grover Washington, Jr. style-wise, although he has his own sound. McMurray is in particularly strong form on "Bob Your Head" and "Big Dreams," making up for a couple tracks that have throwaway R&B vocals. So while McMurray uplifts this idiom, he also consistently shows that he is a better musician than much of the music he is performing. Hopefully he will have future opportunities to stretch out more and really show what he can do.