If you've been listening to "smooth jazz" radio over the past half-decade or so, you've likely heard of the true saxophone talent that is Steve Cole. This Chicago native has been a staple on the airwaves since 1998, when his excellent debut CD "Stay Awhile" was released. Tracks like "Say it Again" and "Think About it" became instant listener favorites. Cole doesn't break any new stylistic ground on this album, but the supple surroundings and silky improvosations make up for him maintaining the status quo.
Produced by Brian Culbertson and co-written by Culbertson and Steve Cole, "Stay Awhile" is an excellent intrduction to Cole's soulful, if not fully-developed, style. The slower-paced tracks show off this talent the best, especially the title track, "Our Love" and the final track, "Devotion." While the mid-tempo tracks tend to blend together, the total experience is positive. This album has a few years behind it, but still sounds as fresh as his current work. If you're a fan of Cole's other albums, Boney James, or Nelson Rangell, you'll love this album.