“Big Island Smoothie” marks a fresh chapter for jazz flutist and Yamaha Performing Artist Bradley Leighton, returning him to the recording scene with his first new single in more than four years. Released September 11, 2026, on Pacific Coast Jazz, the track was co-written and co-produced with acclaimed bassist Darryl Williams and serves as the first taste of new music leading toward a full-length album planned for 2027.
Built on a deep, infectious groove, “Big Island Smoothie” pairs Leighton’s lyrical, airy flute with Williams’ earthy bass, propulsive drums, gentle percussion and atmospheric keyboards. The relaxed island feel gives way to brighter, more adventurous passages as Leighton moves into the upper register and stretches out improvisationally, bringing together the jazz, funk, R&B and soul influences that have shaped his sound for decades.
Reviewer Jonathan Widran praised the track’s balance of smooth-jazz accessibility and musical depth, noting the interplay between Leighton’s flute and Williams’ bass and its warm, sun-drenched character. At 4:22, “Big Island Smoothie” is easygoing, soulful and unmistakably Bradley.
