“I love his musical sensibilities and the way he pays loving
homage to the Great American Songbook. Musically, his
sense of style and swagger are meticulous.”
Grammy Winner Steve Tyrell
“In short, love him – love his talent – I will sing one of Al's
tunes sooner than later.”
Grammy Winner Patti Austin
Just A Dance - the 5th album by St. Louis based lyricist and composer Al Hammerman - is a welcome addition to the pantheon of great pop and jazz records. Hammerman's songs enchant the ears with jazz harmonies and memorable melodies tinged with pop, blues and Latin influences.
Hammerman has assembled an all-star group of vocalists and musicians for this record. These world class arrangements and performances help make these songs instant classics. His catchy melodies and sophisticated lyrics often stay with the listener long after the song has ended.
Many listeners are probably aware of Hammerman’s music without even knowing it, having heard his award winning songs in movies like Passengers, Gotti and Kin; on TV shows like Criminal Minds, Drop Dead Diva and Dynasty; and in commercials for companies like Armani and Volkswagen.
As with so many great songwriters, Hammerman’s signature musical sound is his trademark. After listening to this album, you’ll always be able to tell ‘that’s an Al Hammerman song!
1. What Else (feat. Alan Ox) 2:22
2. Everybody Knows (feat. Erin Bode) 3:26
3. Been Through the Blues (feat. Feyza Eren) 2:54
4. Right on Riverside (feat. Brian Owens) 4:30
5. Break Out the Blues (feat. Alan Ox) 5:24
6. In LA (feat. Arvell Keithley) 4:14
7. Just a Dance (feat. Feyza Eren) 3:13
8. Maybe Be Mine (feat. Alan Ox) 4:38
9. Sad Sunny Day (feat. Erin Bode) 3:34
10. Not Sure (feat. Brian Owens) 3:05
11. Always Looking Up (feat. Erin Bode) 3:53
12. Keep Keep’n On (feat. Brian Owens) 4:49
13. Just a Dance (Country - feat. Feyza Eren) 3:30
All songs composed by Al Hammerman
Words & Music - Al Hammerman
Arrangements - Mark Maher
Featured Vocalists - Erin Bode, Feyza Eren, Arvell Keithley,
Brian Owens, Alan Ox
Background Vocalists - Valencia Branch, Amber Sweet
Keyboards - Mark Maher (solo: 9)
Guitar - Phil Ring (solo: 3)
Bass - Zeb Briskovich
Drums - Miles Vandiver
Percussion - R. Scott Bryan
Alto Sax - Jason Swagler (solo: 1), Ben Reece (solo: 2, 4, 11, 12)
Tenor Sax, Flute - Ben Reece
Trumpet - Andy Tichenor, Garrett Schmidt (solo: 4, 5, 6)
Trombone - Cody Henry (solo: 4, 8), Jim Owens
Violin - Abbie Steiling (solo: 7), Emily Rockers Bowman
Viola - William Bauer
Cello - Andy Hainz