Runnin’ Out of Time: A Smooth Jazz Gem That’s Worth the Rewind
Let’s cut to the chase—Doug Cassens and John Mickie’s Runnin’ Out Of Time isn’t just another smooth jazz album; it’s like that cozy sweater you forgot you owned until you rediscovered it in the back of your closet. Released in 1996 under Triple Star Records, this record feels like a warm hug for your ears, with enough groove to make your toes tap even if you’re sitting still. And hey, shoutout to Kevin Stoddard for designing the cover—it’s got that ‘90s vibe without being too cheesy.
Now, let me hit you with some context before we dive into specifics. This album falls squarely in the Smooth Jazz camp (duh), but don’t let that scare you off if you’re not usually into sax solos and chill vibes. It’s got layers, man. Layers of chill, sure, but also moments where you’re like, “Wait, is this actually kinda deep?” Spoiler alert: It is.
Track Highlights: Not All Tracks Are Created Equal
First up, there’s “Dream (Vocal)”, which is basically what would happen if a sunset could sing. The vocals here are buttery-smooth, gliding over the instrumentation like they’re late for an appointment but refusing to rush. There’s something about how effortless it all sounds—it pulls you in without trying too hard. Honestly? I kept replaying this one because it felt like the perfect background music for staring out a window while pretending life wasn’t happening outside. You know, those existential crisis vibes.
Then there’s “Sleep Walkin’”, which might as well be renamed “Accidentally Trippin’ Over Your Own Feet While Trying to Be Cool.” Don’t get me wrong, though—the laid-back bassline and mellow keys create a vibe so hypnotic, you’ll swear you’re floating through clouds. Every time I listened to this track, I found myself zoning out, only to snap back to reality and realize I’d been nodding along like a bobblehead doll stuck on low speed.
Why Does This Album Stick?
What makes Runnin’ Out Of Time stand out from other smooth jazz albums of its era is how unpretentious it feels. There’s no attempt to blow your mind with crazy technical wizardry or avant-garde experimentation. Instead, it’s content to just exist, letting the melodies breathe and do their thing. Sure, tracks like “Crystal Clear” and “Universal” lean heavily into the whole “easy listening” trope, but they do it so well that you won’t care.
And can we talk about the title track, “Runnin’ Out of Time”? It’s got this subtle urgency beneath the calm surface, like someone whispering, “Hey, enjoy the moment, buddy—you’re not getting these seconds back.” Cheesy? Maybe. Effective? Absolutely.
Final Thoughts: Life Is Short, Jazz Is Long
If I had to sum up Runnin’ Out Of Time, I’d say it’s the musical equivalent of sipping coffee on a rainy Sunday morning—comforting, familiar, and surprisingly profound once you stop to think about it. Plus, who doesn’t love an album that includes both a song called “Angel from Heaven” AND one titled “Set Back”? Talk about contrasts!
So yeah, give this album a spin if you’re in the mood for something smooth yet substantial. Just don’t blame me if you start daydreaming about simpler times—or worse, accidentally falling asleep mid-listen. After all, sometimes running out of time ain’t such a bad thing… especially when the soundtrack is this good.
