A recent Jazziz magazine readers poll ranked Nelson Rangell among the most underrated musicians in the business, right alongside greats like Lyle Mays and Wallace Roney. Such a vote was simply a confirmation of what contemporary jazz fans have known since the Denver-based saxman emerged in the late 80s -- that Rangell is one of the most exciting and diverse performers in the genre, adept at soprano, alto and tenor, in addition to being a genuine virtuoso on flute and piccolo. The radio chart success of his last two albums, Destiny (1995) and Turning Night Into Day (1997) -- both Top 5 airplay smashes -- along with three Top 10 Billboard hits speak volumes about his popularity. But going even deeper, his recordings always resonate emotionally, drawing us deep into both his reflective, spiritual nature and his great love for explosive funk tunes which resonate with the sheer joy of life.

Rangell's development as a musician is a classic tale of beginning later than the norm but making up for lost time in a hurry. He first picked up the flute at age 15, but within six months was studying classical and jazz at the Interlochen Arts Academy, a national camp for gifted musical students. In 1979, the Denver-born reed player (he added various saxes to his repertoire in a few short years) was named Best High School Jazz Soloist in Down Beat Magazine's nationwide competition. He then attended the new England Conservatory of Music in Boston, where he again won the magazine's national competition at the college level.

Having studied and transcribed players as diverse at Charlie Parker, Cannonball Adderly, Tom Scott, David Sanborn, John Coltrane, Michael Brecker and Hubert Laws, Rangell headed to New York in 1984. He spent the next few years honing his chops playing jingle and session dates by day and jamming nightly at clubs with well known players like pianists Jorge Dalto and Richard Tee, guitarists Hiram Bullock and Cornell Dupree and the Gil Evans Big Band. His studio work has included dates with Brecker, Mike Maneiri, The Rippingtons, Stanley Jordan, Patti Austin, Will Downing, Steve Khan and Chuck Loeb.

A glance at the titles of Nelson Rangell's recordings reveal the truth of his sincerity, commitment and positive outlook towards his art and his life. He continues on the road to his destiny, inviting us along for the musical ride of a lifetime. He is a magical performer!