Michael Ruff is a highly respected American singer, songwriter, and keyboardist known for his soulful voice, sophisticated songwriting, and deep musicality. Throughout his career, he has worked with artists such as Chaka Khan, Bonnie Raitt, Rickie Lee Jones, and Lionel Richie. His own albums, including Speaking in Melodies and Once in a Lifetime, have earned him critical acclaim, particularly among musicians and audiophiles. With a style that blends pop, soul, jazz, and gospel influences, Ruff has built a loyal following and remains a favourite among those who value rich, heartfelt songwriting and world-class musicianship.
Sheffield Lab is renowned for its high-quality recordings, primarily focused on jazz and classical music, earning a loyal following among audiophiles worldwide. The label usually sticks to its niche, but in 1992, it stepped into the world of pop and rock to capture the extraordinary Michael Ruff performing live in the studio.
Michael Ruff’s live band was made up mostly of Scandinavian musicians, but Sheffield Lab believed it would be better to use American players instead, a display of arrogance if ever there was one. They lined up three different bands for the project: Ruff’s original Scandinavian live band, a group of top-tier American session musicians, and a percussion-focused ensemble. Fortunately, the Scandinavian band prevailed in the end, with just one addition, renowned guitarist Dean Parks, who joined them for the performances that were ultimately recorded.
Recorded live to two-track, whether digital or analogue remains unknown, over the course of five days at Ocean Way Recording Studios, with George Massenburg at the helm. While the exact equipment list is unclear, it’s known that Massenburg opted to use some of his own GML gear rather than rely on the console’s preamps and signal path. Sheffield Lab also brought in select pieces of their own equipment for the sessions. Ultimately though, the gear is secondary to the sheer talent captured in every aspect of this remarkable recording.
Anyone hearing this record for the first time could easily mistake it for an album crafted over weeks or months in the studio, given the calibre of the performances captured. Standout tracks include Lover’s Mask and the album’s most rock-leaning moment, Wishing Well, which showcases a band locked into a flawless groove and brimming with musical chops. The closing track, I Will Find You There (Jam), was included to highlight the band’s sheer musical prowess as they break into an inspired, spontaneous jam.
The musicianship and technical skill involved in capturing this record live to two-track tape is something we’re unlikely to witness again. Talent of this calibre is rare, and in the 2020s it’s given little opportunity to thrive as AI begins to dominate streaming platforms. If you can find a copy on CD or vinyl, do yourself a favour and grab it. This is one of the greatest bands ever captured live in the studio.