Genius Is

TIMOTHY ANDERSON GENIUS IS... JJB MUSIC 2006 Review by Jessica Herndon A native of Southern California, the 33-year-old Timothy Anderson, known for his saxophone technique, makes his debut as a vocalist on Genius Is... Produced and arranged by Stephen R. Duhart, the record relaxes with a low-key R&B groove, but offers lyrics that invite deep thought. It's the perfect soundtrack for a drive along the coast or as a conversation stimulator at a dinner party. Anderson's voice isn't perfectly crisp on every track. Sometimes it strains a bit, but that's part of the appeal of the album as a whole. It has a humanistic quality; a few loose ends, but overall a beauty. He tackles such subjects as love found, love lost and that good old lesson your mother used to tell you; do unto others as you would want them to do unto you. Anderson's vocals stretch completely on 'Love Is,' an upbeat tune about recognizing your partner's faults, but giving in to love in spite of. On 'A Wise Man' less is more. Simple guitar riffs and a sweet melody conjure up the soothing feel of Nick Drake. Anderson channels Jack Jackson on 'Middle of the Night.' It's folky and gets your feet tapping. Loyal fans don't fret. Anderson's saxophone stylings appear on many tracks, adding that romantic touch that sets everything off. The song you'll remember the most will be 'A Picture Perfect Day.' It's conveniently placed at the very end of the CD so it stays with you. The song takes you out calmly with strings, deep symbols, an '80s induced keyboard and of course, the saxophone. Though his musical roots stem from the profound sound embodied by gospel, Anderson's sound is subtle and lingers in a way you could have never anticipated. Jessica Herndon People Magazine LA Bureau.