Ukulele Magazine - 2023

Here is what they had to say...

Jeffrey Xavier Leeds is a multi-instrumentalist (ukulele, guitar, bass, keyboards, etc.) with a long musical career as a sideman (as Jeff Leeds) playing a number of different styles of music, from power-pop to “oldies” to reggae. For his first solo album, however, he’s chosen to feature the ukulele, which he learned during his middle school years on Oahu and has more recently become a major focus for him.

I would categorize this all-instrumental debut solo album, Life, Love, Ukulele, as smooth jazz: melody is king throughout. there is nary a dissonant chord or note to be found; and the small ensemble arrangements are tasteful. Leeds plays ukulele (often double- or triple-tracked parts), bass (he’s very good!), and keyboards, and his main musical foil, who also helped arrange, record, and mix the album, is drummer/percussionist Terry Carleton.

And Leeds can definitely play. There are many long, technically clean, unfailingly melodic solos that show off his chops. it’s revelatory: Like on “Tropical Elixir,” which has a Latin rhythmic thing happening before it changes tempos for an old-school jazz vamp in the middle. Or “3-6-9,” With Jeff Lewis’ muted trumpet in one section and Spanish flavorings in another. Or “Gingerhill Jam,” which has a cool, unpredictable, open-ended flow.

It is a sound that has been really popular in Hawaii among ukulele players for many years. So, if you enjoy Brittni Paiva, Andrew Molina, Kris Fuchigami, and others, this album might be right up your alley. - BJ

DEBUT  SOLO ALBUM OF JEFFREY XAVIER LEEDS

After a dramatic life changing event, Jeff Leeds has created - Life, Love, Ukulele - an instrumental ukulele homage to the Hawaiian Islands

Can you imagine waking up and not being able to raise your left arm above your waist?  We're talking your playing arm. You’ve been a professional musician all your life: the years of practicing, the experience, the future gigs, taken away. After a life changing neurosurgery and intense physical therapy, Jeff's left arm ultimately regained strength and his dexterity returned. Recovering from the surgery and the desire to express himself musically during pandemic lockdown were the motivations for his new instrumental album Life, Love, Ukulele.  

Life, Love, Ukulele is Leeds' tribute to the natural beauty and wonder of the Hawaiian Islands and culture. He has tried to capture the spirit of Aloha.

Jeff possesses a personable laid-back nature, making him a popular and easy to get along with player. He's the last person that would blow his own horn. That's why this album is so special, and almost Zen-like. When you're listening to it you can tell that every note is coming from his heart. The best way to get to know Jeffrey Xavier Leeds is to sit back with Life, Love, Ukulele and enjoy the music of his debut solo album. - TL