CD Review: Wayman Tisdale 'Rebound'

Published: June 27, 2008

Tulsa native and former NBA star Wayman Tisdale returns to the spotlight with his eighth release, "Rebound,” featuring joyful, laid-back grooves anchored by melodic bass guitar leads. Housed for some time on the Rendezvous Entertainment label, Tisdale shares the platform with other jazz greats such as Dave Koz, Jonathan Butler, Patti Austin, Tom Braxton, Kirk Whalum and Brian Simpson.

"Rebound” is Tisdale's personal testimony of recovery following a bone cancer diagnosis and chemotherapy treatment last year. With a renewed perspective, he enlists the help of friends — award-winning gospel artist Marvin Sapp, keyboardist Simpson, saxophonist Koz and fellow Oklahoman and country great Toby Keith — to take listeners on a musical journey. And what a journey it is.

Tracks such as "Throwin' It Down” (featuring Darren Rahn) and "One on One” announce the former hoopster is back on the court. The best track, surprisingly enough, is Keith's rendition of the Barry White classic "Never Gonna Give You Up.” Keith sounds like a true Barry White protege. The collaboration covers Tisdale's quota to include at least one old-school song on his albums. Tisdale's reinvigoration and sense of purpose is felt from beginning to end, but most of all, Tisdale says on "Rebound,” "I Hope You Feel It Too.”

— Natasha Mitchell

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