AMG Review of Collection

Alex Henderson
All Music Guide

Because of the success he's enjoyed in the pop and R&B markets, critics have tended to dismiss Joe Sample's albums as a leader. But in fact, the keyboardist/pianist's work has often been imaginative and quite soulful. Despite the inclusion of a few throwaways -- including the aimless "Woman, You're Driving Me Mad" -- Collection isn't a bad introduction to his MCA Records output of the late '70s and early-to-mid-'80s. His playing is warm and intimate his playing is on "Carmel," "Sunrise," "Fly with the Wings of Love" and other poetic jazz-pop gems included on this 1991 compilation. The CD's greatest emphasis is on songs from Rainbow Seeker and Carmel, which is appropriate given that they are Joe Sample's strongest albums.