Mindi Abair's GRP Records debut, "It Just Happens That Way," is filled with in-the-pocket grooves, well crafted songs, and a decidedly pop sensibility that's unique to the current smooth jazz landscape. That's because in addition to playing with the biggest names in smooth jazz, Abair has been a fixture in the pop world as saxophonist of choice for artists including Backstreet Boys and Mandy Moore. Producer/guitarist Matthew Hager also brings his pop roots to the project having worked with such artists as Mandy Moore, Duran Duran, and Scott Weiland of Stone Temple Pilots.