RUSS MILLER

ARRIVAL FEATURING RUSS MILLER SOUL – MIND – BODY

RMI Records

Russ Miller, drums/percussion/programming/bandleader.

Russ Miller presents a groove band that incorporates several “virtual” guests who join Millers high powered rhythm section.  This is a band that brings back the days of R&B and funk similar to bands like ‘Tower of Power’ and ‘Maceo Parker’ on Disc 1 of a “Soul Mind and Body” box set.  Miller’s secret weapon on Disc 1 is Rick Krive, who plays a mean keyboard, synthesizer, piano and sings with powerful lead vocals. The Russ Miller band begins this journey soulfully and smokin’ hot!

“Charles Wright and the Watts 103^rd St Rhythm Band was a huge influence on me for the lineage of R&B Playing,” wrote Russ Miller in his liner notes. He also mentions being influenced by the late, great drummer, James Gadson and other members who went on to fame from the 103^rd Street Rhythm Band like Al McKay.

For the past three decades, Russ Miller is one of the most internationally recognizable names in drumming. As a recording artist, he has played on over five hundred albums. Some have won multiple Grammy Awards, records that sold more than 33 million copies. This includes working with over 60 legendary artists including Ray Charles, Natalie Cole, Tina Turner, Bobby Caldwell, Andrea Bocelli, Nelly Furtado, the Psychedelic Furs, Hillary Duff, Michael Buble, Steve Perry and many more.  Miller’s movie and television credits number over 150 and his powerful drumming was notable in films that earned more than a billion dollars at the box office.

This 4-disc box set is a monumental musical journey that took Miller over seven years to complete. He has chosen a series of songs that were influential in the development of Miller’s talents over time, touring, and recording music. The ‘trinity’ of “Soul, Mind and Body” translates from his personal musical development and growth.

Disc 1 (under the title of ‘SOUL’) focuses on his amazing ability to play R&B, funk and soul music.  Disc 2 (represents ‘MIND’) showcases the drummer’s superior style and mastery in playing jazz. He opens this with “The Organ Grinder’s Swing” that I used to hear so many nights played by Jimmy Smith at his and Lola’s club in North Hollywood. Tony Monaco joins the party on organ and Ernie Watts is featured on saxophone.  On “In Walked Bud” vocalist Stephanie Spruill is featured.

‘BODY’ is the third CD in this awesome package of music. Featuring a trio that includes Rick Krive on piano, synth and vocals, Jerry Watts on electric and acoustic bass and Miller once again holding the production tightly in place on drums.

“The ‘BODY’ section of this project is the most extensive and contains the deepest amount of commitment to the recording and arranging process within this project. It required multiple disciplines from playing to orchestration, arranging and conducting, programming and producing,” Miller wrote inside the accompanying CD booklet as part of extensive liner notes.

To top it all off, Russ Miller has included a DVD “Live in Concert” as part of this impressive package of music.

RUSS MILLER MULTI-BANDS: Russ Miller, drums/percussion/programming/bandleader; Rick Krive, lead vocals/ synthesizer/digital keyboards/piano; Jerry Watts, electric & acoustic bass; Tony Monaco, Hammond B3 with pedals; Ernie Watts, tenor saxophone. SPECIAL GUEST: George Shelby, tenor & soprano saxophones/flute. ARRIVAL’S “VIRTUAL” GUESTS: Steve Gold & Steve Smith, drums/Konnakol; Pete Lockett, table/Konnakol; Giovanni Hidalgo, congas; Gleam Joel, rap; Harry Kim, trumpet; George Shelby, tenor sax; Erm Navarro, trombone; Dynell Weber & Robin-Cecil Johnson, violins; Julie Metz, viola; Ginger Murphy, cello; RHYTHM WORLD CHOIR: Nancy Andeel, Shelly Maruszewski, Casey May, Charity May, John Fluker, Elaine Ray, Ed Johnson, Leyla Guerreo & Christi Ebenhock. PORTUGUESE O CHOIR BRASILEIRO: Christina Metayer, Ana Flavia Zuim, Silas Silva Filho & Ricardinho Krive.

Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil

BUY NOW

Buy Us a Cup of Coffee!

Join the movement in supporting Making a Scene, the premier independent resource for both emerging musicians and the dedicated fans who champion them.

We showcase this vibrant community that celebrates the raw talent and creative spirit driving the music industry forward. From insightful articles and in-depth interviews to exclusive content and insider tips, Making a Scene empowers artists to thrive and fans to discover their next favorite sound.

Together, let’s amplify the voices of independent musicians and forge unforgettable connections through the power of music

You can donate directly through Paypal!

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Order the New Book From Making a Scene

Breaking Chains – Navigating the Decentralized Music Industry

Breaking Chains is a groundbreaking guide for independent musicians ready to take control of their careers in the rapidly evolving world of decentralized music. From blockchain-powered royalties to NFTs, DAOs, and smart contracts, this book breaks down complex Web3 concepts into practical strategies that help artists earn more, connect directly with fans, and retain creative freedom. With real-world examples, platform recommendations, and step-by-step guidance, it empowers musicians to bypass traditional gatekeepers and build sustainable careers on their own terms.

More than just a tech manual, Breaking Chains explores the bigger picture—how decentralization can rebuild the music industry’s middle class, strengthen local economies, and transform fans into stakeholders in an artist’s journey. Whether you’re an emerging musician, a veteran indie artist, or a curious fan of the next music revolution, this book is your roadmap to the future of fair, transparent, and community-driven music.

Get your Limited Edition Signed and Numbered (Only 50 copies Available)  Free Shipping Included