Description
Cross Currents is an instrumental album by the American keyboardist, composer, producer and arranger Richard Souther, released on Narada Equinox in 1989, manufactured and distributed by MCA Records. The album was recorded and mixed by Hal Sacks at Royal Recorders in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. All compositions written and arranged by Richard Souther except track A5 co-written with Justo Almario.
Featuring Richard Souther on keyboards (as well as sequencer, synth bass, and electronic percussion), backed by Justo Almario on soprano saxophone, Kirk Whalum on tenor saxophone, Randy Mitchell on guitar, as well as bassist Abraham Laboriel (providing electric bass and synth bass) and percussionist Alex Acuña, both of Koinonia fame (along with Almario). Also featuring Armen Ksajikian on cello with Chester Thompson and Dennis Holt providing cymbal. Sound designer and drum programming (along with Dennis Holt) by associate producer Eric Persing.
During the “gold rush” of Christian labels to capitalize on the “contemplative instrumental” style of music, one name consistently rose to the top – Richard Souther (also known as Douglas Trowbridge). For Christian labels, the rush is over and the glut of releases may have killed a valuable genre.
Ah, but you underestimate Richard Souther. Narada Equinox, a mainstream label, has released Souther’s ‘Cross Currents’, which represents a bold, new step for him.
Just as the contemplative music seemed to be drifting, thoughtless and non-imposing, this new release is like unfurled sails to the wind – driving and aggressive.
The caliber of the contributing musicians gives a clue that this is definitely a new direction. Justo Almario and Kirk Whalum are on soprano and tenor sax, respectively. And to keep the groove tight, who else? None other than Abraham Laboriel and Alex Acuna. Dennis Holt handles the drum programming and Chester Thompson plays the cymbals. Other musicians include Randy Mitchell on guitar, Armen Ksajikau on cello, Eric Persing adding “sound design” and Souther doing keyboards and sequencing.
The lineup is impressive, but it is the way Souther has woven and intricate tapestry of sound, with not one player overstated, for a genuine crossing of musical currents.
This is a very well thought-out record; a planned excursion that really goes somewhere musically – and it’s a enjoyable ride. Highly recommended listening. [Bruce Adolph, CCM, July 1989]
> Apple Music (https://music.apple.com/us/album/cross-currents/723800336)
LP tracklist:
Side One
A1. “Safe Harbor” – 5:30
A2. “Cross Currents” – 4:27
A3. “The Long Riders” – 3:30
A4. “Banana Shakes” – 4:56
A5. “Mary’s Question” – 1:55
Side Two
B1. “High Tide” – 3:45
B2. “Just Dreamin'” – 5:10
B3. “Between The Lines” – 3:47
B4. “The Last Roundup” – 2:48
B5. “All The Way Home” – 4:55
Note: Simultaneously released on cassette, 12-inch vinyl LP, and CD by Narada Equinox.
Back in 1989 we did a video to help promote my then latest project Cross Currents on Narada/MCA. With the help of my friends, Kirk Whalum on sax, Randy Ray Mitchell on guitar, Dennis Holt on drums and myself on keys, we worked with Gerald Casale (DEVO) directing and cinematographer Jim Jarrard to see this little vision come alive.
An interview with keyboardist and composer Richard Souther regarding his album Cross Currents was featured in the November 1989 issue of CCM Magazine, as a part of their ongoing Christian Musician Series.
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