Album Review: "Deal" by Benjamin Herman and Co. – A Jazz-Soundtrack Gem That Sticks
If you're into soundtracks with a jazzy twist, Deal is one of those albums that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. Released in 2012 by a killer lineup—Benjamin Herman (sax), Jesse van Ruller (guitar), Carlo de Wijs, Manuel Hugas, Joost Kroon, and backed by the City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra—it’s like someone took all your favorite noir flicks, shook 'em up, and poured out something smooth but kinda mysterious. The album dances between jazz and soundtrack vibes, making it perfect for late-night drives or pretending you’re in some old-school detective movie.
Let’s talk tracks. First off, “Barcelona Daybreak.” Man, this tune hits different. It starts slow, almost sleepy, like dawn breaking over rooftops where people are still nursing their coffee. Then BAM!—the sax comes in, sultry as heck, and suddenly you’re not just sipping coffee anymore; you’re plotting an escape to Spain. There’s something about how the guitar weaves around the melody, teasing you without ever fully giving itself away. This track sticks because it feels cinematic without needing visuals—you can picture everything yourself.
And then there’s “Sara Said Yes (aka Sherry Britton).” Oh man, this one’s got swagger. It's playful yet sharp, like Sara herself might strut into the room at any moment wearing sunglasses indoors. The rhythm section grooves so hard here that I caught myself nodding along even while typing this review (oops). What makes it unforgettable? Maybe it’s the way the brass swells feel like they’re whispering secrets right into your ear. Or maybe it’s just fun to imagine what kind of wild story inspired such a cheeky title.
The rest of the album keeps things fresh too. Tracks like “Room 1618” have this moody, smoky vibe that screams "hotel lobby drama," while “End Title (aka Tempest Storm 2012)” wraps things up with a flourish that leaves you wanting more. And hey, props to Dox Records and Roach Records for putting this together—it’s got that Dutch edge mixed with international flair.
Here’s the thing about Deal: it doesn’t try too hard to impress you. Instead, it lets its personality shine through quirky titles, lush arrangements, and moments that make you stop whatever you’re doing and just listen. Sure, it’s technically labeled under Stage & Screen, but honestly? This could be the soundtrack to anyone’s life—if your life were cooler than it probably is.
Final thought: Listening to Deal feels like finding a dusty vinyl in a thrift shop and realizing it’s gold. Except instead of dust, it’s polished to perfection. Now excuse me while I go figure out if Sara really did say yes…
