The Rippingtons Albums Ranked Apr 2026

An attempt to inject modern pop production. The title track has an edgy, rockish guitar tone, but the album feels torn between radio-friendly smooth jazz and fusion. Highlights (“Big Sky”) are excellent; filler tracks drag. Tier 4: For Completists Only (3 stars or below) 10. Modern Art (2009) By this point, the formula had grown thin. Freeman’s playing remains flawless, but the songwriting feels automated. “Body Art” and “Gemini” recycle earlier ideas. Not bad, but no surprises.

A transitional album—less Latin, more urban R&B. Steve Reid’s percussion still sparkles, but the synths lean toward late-’90s smooth jazz radio. “Deep Powder” is a gem, and “True Companion” (with vocalist Patti Austin) works better than most of their vocal experiments. Tier 3: Enjoyable but Inconsistent (3.5-star middle ground) 7. Weekend in Monaco (1992) The band’s most “European” album—sleek, polished, almost yacht-rock adjacent. “Highroller” and “Monte Carlo” are fun, but the energy dips in the middle. A solid listen, but lacks the fire of their best. the rippingtons albums ranked

A late-era album that tries to recapture the Tourist in Paradise vibe. The production is pristine, but the soul is missing. Listen to “King of Hearts” once, then return to the 1989 original of “Caribbean Breeze.” An attempt to inject modern pop production

The commercial breakthrough. This album perfected the “Rippingtons sound”: shimmering synths, steel drums, Latin percussion, and Freeman’s lyrical guitar. The title track and “Caribbean Breeze” are genre-defining. If you own one Rippingtons album, this is it—effortless, warm, and timeless. Tier 4: For Completists Only (3 stars or below) 10