Arthur Blythe's death prompted me to listen to his Put Sunshine In it for the first time on You Tube. I had avoided it previously because it had received unfavorable reviews. Upon listening to it, I find that I appreciate it for what it is and that I like it -- a lot. Not too long ago, I would have scoffed at the "commercial" nature of the recording and probably not listened to much of it after the first few notes. Arthur's great tone on his instrument and musicianship might have something to do with it, but I also hear precursors to elements used by Stereolab in several of their recordings and Wayne Shorter in High Life. Are there any other examples of "serious" jazz musicians releasing albums in a similar style - e.g. using pop elements with original compositions, synthesizers, and drum machines?
R.I.P. Arthur Blythe