I've been a big fan of Marc Antoine's signature Latin-funk guitar work since I first heard his debut disc, "Classical Soul," in 1994. Needless to say, I've been looking forward to his newest release, HI-LO SPLIT. I just got my preview copy, and I'm thrilled to say that it's another outstanding collection of music from one of the true superstars of today's Smooth Jazz. Marc's signature nylon and steel sound is enhanced this time by the Mediterranean ambience of his home in Madrid. He recorded this disc there (in his Frogland Studio), brought his friend and longtime keyboardist Frederic Gaillardet in from Paris for the project, used bassist and Cameroon native Andre Mange, and imported Luis Conte's percussion parts electronically from L.A.; he then added the sizzle of a local Spanish horn section to both the title track (the first radio single) and the fiery, tropical-flavored "Groovin' High." The result of this sun-kissed Mediterranean chemistry is a delightfully organic sound, with an unmistakable R&B twist to many of the tunes. In addition to "Hi-Lo Split and "Groovin' High," I really like the lush "For a Smile," inspired by his son Alejandro, and Marc's salute to Joao Gilberto, "Bossalectro." As for the album's title... it's inspired by his newly developed fascination with the game of poker, where a HI-LO SPLIT means the person with the highest and lowest hand wins. HI-LO SPLIT is classic Marc Antoine, with a fresh new slant, and I'm absolutely loving it. This one gets five stars! ~SCOTT O'BRIEN