A perfect synchronicity takes place between the title and overall vibe of “It’s a Party,” the high-spirited, playfully grooving new hit single by guitarist Keith Andrew. Written and produced by hitmaker and fellow Smooth Jazz guitarist Nils, the instantly infectious, coolly atmospheric track is as adventurous as the artist himself, easy flowing in the verses, then exploding into a crackling jam mode with bright, tasty licks darting off the melody on the chorus section. Along with Andrew’s previous hit “Cielo,” “It’s a Party” will appear on his forthcoming album SOUL EXPEDITION, which will feature Nils and Chris Standring.

Cielo, (Spanish for “Sky”) is Keith’s Innervision Records label debut and the new single from his forthcoming album Soul Expedition. Enlisting the help of hit guitarist and composer/producer Chris Standring, Keith weaves his way through a sultry mix of fiery electric guitar lines (including a tasty solo from Standring), and a flourish of acoustic picking set among a bed of spicy Latin rhythms and textures. True to its name, Cielo invokes the sky's spacious and often turbulent and lively beauty!

Keith’s latest double A-side single “Higher Ground” w/ “Funky Good Time” - featuring Darryl Walker of East Bay Soul on vocals.

“In my rave review of Keith Andrew’s Blue Funky Blue a few years ago, I mentioned that contemporary jazz would be more interesting if more artists would dig deeper into more dynamic styles like he does. I also called the disc “adventurous”, never dreaming that this word would be part of the title and the overriding vibe of his latest album, Adventurous Soul, a wild, festive and funky set which takes the concept to even higher levels. The genius of what Andrew and his producer Nils – a renowned #1 artist in his own right – have created is that it perfectly balances instantly hummable melodies, funky grooves and Andrew’s crisp, soulful playing with crazy-fun excursions to unexpected places. There’s a mood for every time of day (“6 AM,” “Crunch Time”), some serious globetrotting (“Samba Dulce,” “Namaste Dance”) and revisits to soul classics we thought we knew but now we know better. Quite simply, this is one of the best contemporary jazz recordings of 2014.”

Jonathan Widran - Jazz Journalist

“The dynamic guitarist Keith Andrew, an electrifying stage presence, has a soft spot for the blues and world music with a smooth jazz base, and he brings those elements – and much more – to his latest CD, Adventurous Soul... a triumphant project stuffed with some of the most engaging smooth jazz of the year. Among Andrew’s influences and mentors is Norman Brown, whose style is evident, including in the sweet and melodic title track, where Brown’s style is reflected in Andrew’s notes and chords. “Love You More,” written and produced by guitarist Nils, features Andrew’s majestic note bending solos, one of best singles of the year, no doubt.”

Brian Soergel - Jazz Journalist

Guitarist/keyboardist/vocalist Keith Andrew brings us a funky, saucy, and smooth offering that is diverse, melodic, and loaded with swagger. This release, Blue Funky Blue, which also features saxman Marcus Anderson and guitarist Rob Tardik on select tracks, boasts a delightful blend of contemporary jazz, fusion, blues, funk, and touches of World, a recipe not unfamiliar to Andrew.

On Blue Funky Blue, you’ll find yourself in the familiar settings of contemporary jazz (e.g., “Pookies Groove”), blues (title track), and funk (“Who Dat, Where You At?”) only to witness a slight detour into exotic areas of World (“Fertile Crescent,” “Sherpadance”) and great fusion (“Little Sierra,” “Makes Me Wonder,” “New Way”). You’ll also find tracks that just do their own thing, defying categorization or pigeonholing (e.g., “Howl Mountain” and the raspy “In the Middle of the Night,” which play with fusion, blues, and rock, as well). The outrageously swinging uptempo bluesy “Who Dat, Said Who Dat?” showcases Andrew’s ability to fire off lightning riffs and directs the spotlight toward the nimble fingers of keyboardist Nate Ginsberg, as well. This piece is jazz/blues on steroids, so hold on to your hats for the ride. Impressive showing of skill for sure.

To say this album is full of emotion and creativity is an understatement. This had to be a true experience for all who participated in the making of this project. I personally wouldn’t say that Blue Funky Blue is as comprehensively bluesy and funky as its title might suggest, but if you want creativity, diversity, and totally impressive musicianship, open this door. You’ll find that you’re in the right place. 

Contemplation is the long awaited second release from San Francisco based guitarist and composer Keith Andrew. This beautifully produced and packaged CD not only features the masterful guitar work of Keith Andrew, it also showcases his multi-instrumental talents creating beautiful and melodic textures and soulful grooves! Some of the notable tracks are the energetic and funky “Today’s the Day” and the title track “Contemplation” featuring his exceptional electric and acoustic guitar work! Keith Andrew also does a bluesy and eclectic version of the classic “Tequila” paying homage to his guitar heroes Wes Montgomery, George Benson and Larry Carlton.

Adding to the rich and contemplative tone of the album is the stirring and meditative “Cool Breeze” featuring the vocals and lyrics of singer songwriter John Mize. The album also features a high energy Latin and world inspired composition “First Kiss” which further demonstrates Keith’s improvisational sophistication. The CD would not be complete without the hard driving blues and rock edged fusion tunes: “Boyo Poyo” and “Meathead” showcasing the Jazz Funk Fusion roots of Keith Andrew!

This new project also features the exceptional bass playing of Marcus Phillips whose credits include: Tony Toni Tone, Ledisi and the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir. If you have been contemplating adding a great new smooth jazz CD to your collection, you will not go wrong with Keith Andrew’s Contemplation!

Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, Keith began playing guitar at 10 years old. As a teenager he moved with his family to the San Francisco Bay Area where he was exposed to the rich and diverse SF music scene. His passion and desire for further knowledge led him to Los Angeles where he had the opportunity to study with some of the world's greatest jazz and contemporary guitarists such as: Robin Ford, Joe Pass, Buzz Fieten, Scott Henderson and Joe Diorio. 

While attending college in Los Angeles, Keith was a featured soloist with the Chaffey College Jazz Ensemble, earning several awards for outstanding musicianship from the National Association of Jazz Educators. He later went on to attend the world-renowned Guitar Institute of Technology. Graduating at the top of his class, he subsequently joined the faculty as a staff instructor. 

Shortly after graduating from the Guitar Institute, Keith teamed with Keyboardist and Composer Morris Beeks. Shortly thereafter, the duo formed the Jazz/R&B band Himalaya. The Himalaya sound was soon defined by Keith's unique compositions, soon making it one of the most popular and dynamic groups on the L.A. circuit. 

Himalaya released their debut album "Friend to Friend" which received national airplay. Shortly thereafter, they embarked on a nationwide tour with notable appearances at the Santa Barbara Jazz Festival as well as major nightclubs and Venues in New York, Washington D.C., Memphis and San Diego. 

Now residing in the San Francisco Bay Area, Keith Andrew has found his true creative voice. Inspired by the diverse multicultural musical mix found in the San Francisco scene, his style has gravitated toward a World Jazz Fusion Style. His taste for world music was also inspired by performing at some of the top bay area venues with the popular South African band "Zulu Spear". 

It was with that band the he teamed up with 2 excellent musicians from Austin Texas. Multi-instrumentalists and Producers, Cecil (P-Nut) Daniels and Carlton Lowe have been at the core of many of Keith's SF based recording and live performance projects. The have also formed the popular groups: "Sound Minds" and "P-Nut and The Apocalypse".