Craig T. Cooper – Got-That-Thang

Craig T. Cooper is an LA-based guitarist who recorded two incredible smooth-jazz influenced funk records in the late 80’s and early 90’s. Both albums contain a slew of dreamy, atmospheric slow jams that touch on that “balearic” sound that we all love. With 1990’s Got-That-Thang, there are two standouts to mention. A2 Quality Time is probably Cooper’s most well-known tune and features some extremely sensual Sylvia Robinson-like vocals by Denice Stewart while the lesser heard but true gem of the bunch is B1 Sweet Water. Both tracks were championed by local legend Larry “Doc” Elliott of WJZZ, who made Cooper a staple of late-night Detroit radio in the 90’s. “Sweet Water” is undoubtedly Cooper’s most hypnotic tune. It’s like funk distilled in a hot spa… The perfectly executed combination of the “in the clouds” synth line, fat plucked bass groove, and blissed-out vocals cast a spell of deep euphoria while guest George Duke lays down an acrobatic, slinky Moog synthesizer solo over the entire track. 

It’s a big favorite around here and a slow jam paragon.

– DM

Recommended – A2 Quality Time, B1 Sweet Water