Barry White News

When smooth jazz guitarist Russ Freeman formed Peak Records in 1994, he sought to provide a home for contemporary jazz musicians.

A decade later, Peak sports an impressive roster that includes Freeman's smooth jazz pioneers the Rippingtons, the Braxton Brothers and saxophonists Gato Barbieri, Paul Taylor and Eric Marienthal.

"We wanted to combine business acumen with musical artistry," says Freeman, who launched the label with his manager, Andi Howard. "We felt that having a musician involved with a label was a good thing for nurturing a culture of creativity."

A release on the horizon is vocalist Regina Belle's "Lazy Afternoon," produced by George Duke (July 13). After previous distribution deals with GRP and Windham Hill/BMG, Peak has been linked with Concord Records since 2000.

While Peak is celebrating its 10th anniversary, Freeman observes the 10-year reunion of his duo project with David Benoit. The pianist was also a founding member of the Rippingtons and has recently joined the Peak roster.

Smooth-toned and melody-driven "The Benoit/Freeman Project 2," is the long-awaited sequel to 1994's "The Benoit/Freeman Project." It arrives June 22.

"Ever since we recorded the first album, fans all over the world have been asking for a follow-up," Freeman says. "Our schedules made it impossible until recently."

The CD boasts a stripped-down, largely acoustic sound embellished by Benoit's orchestral arrangements. Guests include trumpeter Chris Botti and a surprise appearance by country star Vince Gill , who delivers Al Anderson 's "Two Survivors" with a bossa-nova feel.

"We were recording the strings in Nashville so we decided to call Vince," Freeman says. "He was intrigued by trying something different."

Even though Freeman knew Benoit's contract with Verve was up for renewal, he had no ulterior motives in doing the duo project. He says they recorded the album based on their long history of working together.

"Of course, I had my fingers crossed," Freeman says. "Ultimately it came down to Peak being able to offer David support for all his other efforts, including orchestral/classical works and a children's album."

Reuters/Billboard