For as much Jazz especially Jazz-Fusion, Jazz-Funk, and Soulful Jazz from the ‘70s I’ve listened to, I hadn’t heard, let alone knew of, any of John Klemmer’s discography until recently. The first track I heard from him was My Love Has Butterfly Wings off his 1969 album Blowin’ Gold. I was immediately hooked by the saxophone intro’s warm and inviting tone. The rest of the track gives the feeling of being with someone special at sunset feeling like that moment would never end.

Though Touch is considered to be a Smooth Jazz record, I would never deem it to be in the level of corniness or mundanity that modern day Smooth Jazz has. His tracks offer infectious melodies, impressive soloing, and nods to artists and sub-genres before him. This album reminds me of the sounds of Lonnie Liston Smith, Herbie Hancock, and Grover Washington Jr. to name a few. If you’re interested in Jazz, Jazz-Funk, or music that is calming and emotional, check this one out.