While a kid growing up in the United Kingdom, contemporary jazz guitarist Chris Standring read James Allen’s “As a Man Thinketh,” and it sowed the seeds of positivity and optimism, leading to a transformation that occurred in his early sixties when the musician got married for the first time last year. Acknowledging how his mindset inspires the music he composes and records, Standring’s upbeat nineteenth album, “As We Think,” captures his marital bliss and hope on the eleven songs that he wrote and produced on the Ultimate Vibe Recordings release that arrives on April 5.

“Allen’s little book from way back in 1902 had a lasting impact upon me. As an excessively positive thinker, albeit with a very realistic, often dark, typically British outlook, I thought ‘As We Think’ might just be the perfect title to describe where I sit in the universe right now. I recently got married, an influence that emanates loudly from these recordings,” said Standring who created his distinctive brand and unique sound using retro jazz, seventies soul and funk, vintage R&B grooves and modern electronic nuances in the mix that surrounds his guitar tone and technique, distinguishing himself from other contemporary jazz guitarists.

Standring opens the new album in a quartet configuration backed by the taut rhythm section comprised of bassist Andre Berry (David Sanborn, Dave Koz, Rick Braun), drummer Chris Coleman (Chaka Khan, Christina Aguilera, Babyface), and Grammy nominated percussionist Lenny Castro (Joe Sample, Eric Clapton, Toto). The album contains four songs featuring this core lineup, the first of which is “Chocolate Shake” that Standring stirs with a talk box. Continue reading →

Guitarist Chris Standring steps into 2024 with ‘As We Think’, an upbeat eleven song set featuring his top flight LA rhythm section, horn section and special guests. A super soulful workout with exotic arrangements, dazzling solos, all wrapped up in Chris’ inimitable contemporary jazz style.

A proven hitmaker with 10 number one radio singles to his name, Chris Standring continues to carve out his unique brand and sound, setting himself apart stylistically from all others in the genre. Track Listing: 1. Chocolate Shake 2. Good Gracious 3. Come Closer 4. Top Hat & Tails 5. Alphabet Soup 6. Bedtime Story 7. Michael’s Watch 8. This Life 9. Monday Madness 10. Swings & Roundabouts 11. Too Good To Be True

Pre-order the album at Amazon.com.