Manu Katche

I (very) recently picked up "Playground" and really like it. I'll have to spin it a few more times before I put it in the "incredible" range though. It's definitely worth having in the collection though if you like mellow jazz especially.

I agree. A friend introduced me to "Neighborhood" a while back and I recently got Playground. Great works. Our local Jazz station plays him a fair amount as well.

Manu Katche has been a favorite of mine since I became familiar with his
work with Peter Gabriel and Sting.

When I read a previous recommendation for "Playground" and
"Neighborhood", I immediately checked them out and purchased
"Playground".

It’s a pleasant, easy listening style of jazz. Perhaps perfect for background,
dining or reading music. I don’t find much in it that's challenging, new or
particularly interesting. Mostly, it strikes me as commercial, New Age jazz. It's well played and well recorded.

If you seek these titles out with the idea of hearing something inventive from
one of he world's best drummers, I believe you will be disappointed.
However, if you approach the music from the standpoint of pleasant, mellow,
piano jazz, then it will likely please.