Album Information Section

Album Title: Deep Into It

Artist: Larry Carlton

Original Release Date: November 13, 2001

Label: Warner Bros. Records

Genres: Jazz Fusion, Smooth Jazz

Track Listing

• 1. Put it Where You Want It (4:16)
• 2. Deep Into It (4:20)
• 3. Don’t Break My Heart (4:01)
• 4. I Still Believe (4:01)
• 5. Morning Magic (4:18)
• 6. It’s a Groove Thang (4:45)
• 7. Closer to Home (3:48)
• 8. I Can’t Tell You Why (4:27)
• 9. Like Butta’ (5:07)
• 10. Roll With It (5:24)
• 11. Put it Where You Want It (Extended Version) (10:38)

Recording Information

“Deep Into It” was recorded at the renowned Ocean Way Recording studio in Hollywood, California, a hub for many iconic albums throughout the decades. The recording sessions took place primarily in 2001, a time when Carlton was looking to further expand his creative horizons. The album was produced by Larry Carlton himself, alongside the talented engineer Michael O’Reilly. The production aimed to capture Carlton’s signature guitar tone, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment including vintage amplifiers and high-quality microphones to ensure clarity and warmth in the sound. Notably, Carlton’s use of layered guitar tracks added depth and richness to the album, a technique that he honed throughout his career.

Band Context

At the time of “Deep Into It,” Larry Carlton was already an established figure in the music industry, known for his work as a session guitarist and leader of his own projects. He gained fame in the 1970s and 1980s, collaborating with big names such as Steely Dan and Joni Mitchell. By the early 2000s, Carlton was transitioning into a solo artist, focusing on his own musical vision while still maintaining collaborations with various artists across genres. The lineup for this album featured Larry Carlton on guitars, supported by a cadre of skilled musicians including Tribal Tech’s bassist Scott Henderson and drummer Vinnie Colaiuta. This period marked a significant evolution in Carlton’s style, as he blended elements of jazz fusion with smooth jazz, reaching a broader audience.

Track Commentary

The album opens with “Put it Where You Want It,” a track that sets the tone with its catchy groove and melodic lines that showcase Carlton’s exceptional guitar skills. The title track, “Deep Into It,” follows, featuring intricate arrangements and smooth transitions, characteristic of Carlton’s style. “Don’t Break My Heart” and “I Still Believe” delve into more personal themes, reflecting emotional depth through melodic guitar solos and rich harmonies.

Tracks like “It’s a Groove Thang” and “Closer to Home” exhibit a more upbeat jazz fusion vibe, making them standout pieces for live performances. “I Can’t Tell You Why,” a cover of the Eagles’ classic, demonstrates Carlton’s ability to reinterpret well-known songs, adding his unique flair while maintaining the original’s essence. The album’s penultimate track, “Roll With It,” serves as a highlight, blending elements of funk and jazz with infectious rhythms.

The extended version of “Put it Where You Want It” concludes the album, offering a deep dive into the thematic material presented throughout the record. Critics praised “Deep Into It” for its production quality and Carlton’s guitar work, with many considering it a significant contribution to the smooth jazz genre. The album solidified Carlton’s reputation as a leading artist in the field, with tracks that continue to resonate with listeners and musicians alike.