Saxophonist Plunky Releases Eclectic, Thrilling R&B Album

New York, NY (Top40 Charts/ Plunky Official Website) Having already released 25 albums on his own N.A.M.E. Brand Records label in Richmond, Virginia, saxophonist J. Plunky Branch, known simply as Plunky, has proven himself to be a prolific fellow. With his latest effort, "On Fire," one can assume that Plunky can produce two dozen more, each probably occupying a different genre. Plunky is eclecticism defined; in "On Fire," he uses R&B as a foundation for a variety of rhythmic sweeteners, from funk to electro to smooth jazz.

To Plunky, the various genres of music offer a buffet; he can order an item or two from the menu or toss a number of them on the same dish. Plunky's unpredictability is what makes "On Fire" such a thrilling ride. Stylistically Plunky subscribes to no-boundaries iconoclasts such as Prince and OutKast. Although not as quirky and rock as the former or as hip-hop as the latter, creatively they seem to swim in the same adventurous waters.

"On Fire" opens with a spoken-word interlude that one wouldn't expect on an album such as this; however, it prepares the listener for Plunky's various curveballs. This is not a straightforward funk record, which is actually among the reasons why it is so special. On the title track and "Inside These Walls," synthetic grooves percolate beneath a stirring R&B jam. On "On My Way," Plunky's soaring saxophone heightens the song's funky energy. "Gotta Get Up," on the other hand, recalls Bob Marley with its easygoing reggae feel.

"On Fire" is the kind of record that separates an artist from a simple musician. Plunky's mastery of the saxophone cannot be questioned; just listen to the smoking, soulful ache of his sax on "Nothing's Too Good" for a bracing taste of his deft command of the instrument. However, Plunky takes it to another level, tossing the rearview mirror out the window and slamming the gas pedal to the floor. The man is "On Fire," and watch the sparks fly.