(2017) Tomi Malm - Walkin' On Air


Review:
Tomi Malm’s Walkin’ on Air is one of 2017’s audio treats. Where else can you combine Malm’s soulful AOR songwriting, West Coast-level production and the creme de la creme of players. Malm, the principal composer and ring-leader, leads this all-star group of players through an inviting, well-crafted and inspired group of songs. The Finnish producer/songwriter calls on the talents of studio big shots like John “JR” Robinson and James Harrah, as well as former Chicago bassist Jason Scheff and current Toto bassist/ vocalist Shem Von Schroeck. “Kuwakaribisha,” the opening instrumental track, is an immediate draw with its stunning melody. “Favor,” sung by cowriter Frank Adahl, has a definite upbeat Chicago feel rhythmically, while the horn chart leans more in the Jerry Hey direction. “When You’re Gone, sung by Julian Thomas, is a simple yet powerful ballad. Thomas’ soulful delivery is enhanced by sparse electric and acoustic guitars, with a touch of piano.The song’s powerful message is only enhanced by Tomi Malm’s production acumen. His title track is no less intriguing. Former Chicago bass master and vocalist Jason Scheff makes a welcome return. Scheff’s voice has lost none of its power and range. While his bass playing is restrained, it is an excellent compliment to Malm’s uplifting melody, which was cowritten with Jackie Kaven. “Perfect Imperfection” harkens to an earlier era of fine songcraft. The smooth soul ballad, sung by Jeff Pescetto, has a strong hook to match its tender lyrics. “You Belong To Me” continues the romantic theme. Singer Clif Magness helps the song build on this foundation, but guitarist Dan Warner provides a touch of fire to help the ballad reach the next level. The Jeremy Lubbock-penned “Reason to Smile” recalls the best Michael Jackson ballads. This Rhodes-driven song benefits from the simplicity of the production, and Julian Thomas’ vocal. Shem Von Schroeck, band leader for Kenny Loggins and bassist for Toto, gets the opportunity its to show off his considerable vocal talent on “Wouldn’t It Be Kinder.” This track actually has a late-’80s Loggins feel, with its soaring chorus and equally soaring James Harrah guitar solos. “Let’s Get to It” is a true treat, with Sante Fe and the Fat City Horns guitarist Jerry Lopez cowriting and singing the jumpy, hook-laden soul song. It moves with authority, only needing a stronger back beat to truly smoke. By the time you reach the album-closing “Today,” Tomi Malm has brought us full circle. The song is a tight and touching ballad, which leaves the listener truly Walkin’ on Air.





Track Listing:
1.Kuwakaribisha 02:18
2.Favor 04:57
3.When You're Gone 05:36
4.Walkin' On Air 04:38
5.Show Me A Sign 04:30
6.Perfect Imperfection 05:37
7.Still Life (Interlude) 02:33
8.Wouldn't It Be Kinder 04:11
9.Let's Get To It 04:35
10.A Reason To Smile 02:25
11.You Belong To Me 05:28
12.Today 02:48


Media Report:
Genre: pop, soft rock
Country: Spain
Recorded date: 2017
Format: FLAC
Format/Info: Free Lossless Audio Codec, 16-bit PCM
Bit rate mode: Variable
Channel(s): 2 channels
Sampling rate: 44.1 KHz
Bit depth: 16 bits