On the album we are proudly presenting you today (Full Court Press) you’ll find seven sublime tracks recorded in 1984 and released in 1985 on the Olive Branch label. This was Calvin Key’s first solo album since his recordings for Black Jazz Records back in the 1970’s. Full Court Press features an impressive arsenal of working road dogs that Keys had shared the stage with over the years. Included are: Maxayn Lewis (The Ikettes, Morris Day), Mike Thompson (Freddie Hubbard), James Gadson (Marvin Gaye, Herbie Hancock), Donny Beck (Buddy Miles, Bobby Lyle)…and many others.
Full Court Press is THE dictionary definition of smooth (yet funky) soul-jazz, with washes of warm, laid back grooves pinned under Keys’ endless dancing up and down the fretboard. The playing is ‘deep in the pocket’ and comes off elegant and effortless. Fluid rhythmic fingerpicking that makes you forget all about time and space. This essential release deserves a prominent place in your record collection!
Tidal Waves Music now proudly presents the FIRST ever vinyl reissue of “Full Court Press” (originally released on Olive Branch Records in 1985). This rare record (vintage copies are not easy to come by) now comes as a deluxe 180g vinyl edition, strictly limited to 1800 copies worldwide with obi strip and features the original artwork by John Heard (Azar Lawrence, Count Basie) & sleeve notes by Sherman Ferguson (Pharoah Sanders Quartet). Released exclusively for Record Store Day 2022 and available in participating stores on April 23, 2022