More than a decade ago, guitarist and vocalist Steve Oliver burst onto the contemporary jazz scene with a sound so fresh, so positive, so bright, that he immediately became a favorite on radio stations with songs like “West End” and “Highway One.” The Weather Channel loved his music so much it put “Right Direction” into heavy rotation during its local weather breaks. Smooth Jazz News magazine named Oliver its Debut Artist of the Year. Now, after four studio CDs, a Christmas project and a CD that captured his infectious live-on-stage energy, Oliver returns with Global Kiss on SOM Entertainment. As the title makes clear, Global Kiss expands Oliver’s repertoire with its world-music energy while retaining the lyrical melodies and song hooks that have made him a fan favorite. “The concept is of global influence and world music, how you can put that flavor into jazz and R&B tunes,” says Oliver, who commissioned contemporary jazz saxophonist and graphic artist Marion Meadows to design the CD’s bright and inspiring cover. “The CD touches on different cultures, from Brazil, India, the Middle East, America, Europe. I’ve always loved taking different styles of music and blending them into a cohesive vibe. That’s always attracted me as a listener, as well.”