Instrumental Rock Fusion-Jazz-Blues Review: Nic Weatherly-Home Again

Release Date: August 30, 2024

Label: Independent

Website

Nic Weatherly is a diverse guitar player who released his EP Home Again a month ago. His website explained what to expect, and he promised a varied listen of instrumental guitar work.

"Redemption" starts the album with a jazzy acoustic sound and a good backing rhythm. It has a great feel and makes your feet move without thinking. Some of the picking is extraordinary in between the main leads and melody. 

"I Do" starts at a much softer, slower pace than the previous opening track, allowing the listener to flip the mood to the other side of the coin. Some lovely acoustic playing fills the air with well-defined notes. Nic's playing is precise but unpredictable, which I particularly enjoy because I already realized the man's talent from the start. It's a slow mover and some excellent playing once again.

"Blind" kicks off with some jazzy, funky licks. It is energetic and complex, with some great tone and changes throughout the track, albeit some fast pick work. Some strong bass and timely drums accompany the dazzling fretwork. It was a great way to get momentum and continuity, sparking anticipation and leaving the listener eager for what's next. It is the kind of instrumental jazz-rock fusion that keeps you on your toes!

"O Jul Med Din Glede" translates as "O Christmas with your joy," and the tempo and sound surely match what the title is saying. It sounded like hints of Celtic music at times to me, but it is a Norwegian song. It is a very upbeat tune, yet it also brings comfort and spirituality that washes over you nearly instantly. It's a great tune to mix into this varied EP, leaving you feeling uplifted and serene.

"LaVonne" is likely about a woman in his life, so I am anticipating something special. Possibly the lady on the front of the cover artwork, I will guess his mother or grandmother. Once again, we get a touching presentation of acoustic string expertise with some violin for more feeling and a very subtle drum to keep the pace. The emotional depth in this track is palpable, making it clear that this person was extraordinary in his life.

Nic Weatherly is an excellent guitar player, and if this is a sample of what he can do, I would love to hear a full album. His talents are far-reaching within those strings on a guitar. It is readily apparent from beginning to end that he plays any style of music that he wants, and Home Again is a window into those capabilities.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Reviews Founder

October 5, 2024

Tracks:

1. Redemption 3:17

2. I Do 3:56

3. Blind 3:35

4. O Jul Med Din Glede 3:07

5. LaVonne

Peppos-Jones Band Review and Interview: Life Notes

Genre: Rock-Pop

Release Date: August 29, 2024

Website

I first heard music from Peppos and Jones in 2019. Louis Jones was also in that band. The title was 50/80, 50 Years in 80 Minutes. Additionally, I had a blast interviewing these old high school friends.

The album Life Notes was released a few weeks ago. It opens with a rousing “Don't Waste The Dawn.” Because it was several years back, I did not recall the sound as much as I would have liked, but I know the lead vocals are different. And I don’t mean that in a negative way. It is a great way to kick off the recording. 

“Decisions” is the longest track, clocking in at 6:18 minutes. It starts with a newscast discussing a shake-up in Portland. The tune is well-thought-out, with a saxophone adding unique depth and a guitar wailing away. The male and female vocals are understated, serving the purpose of their message. It's a song about brotherhood and understanding, reminiscent of a '60s protest song. The focus here is to take the advice and make a firm “Decision” to do so.

 

“Music In Heaven” starts with a soft acoustic guitar. I started thinking about how this music reminded me of something. The band America came to mind rather quickly because of the gentle but effective vocal style and rhythmic guitar playing in this track. As always, this was my take on what I heard; everyone can listen to it and be engaged differently. Music triggers things in a listener, whether an emotion is connected to a memory, a person, an event, or anything in life. The female vocals are a nice touch, and the partnership works well.

 

“350 Degrees” begins with excitement and rocking sounds and quickly changes to a more mellow sound, with acoustic and electric guitar still a factor but tastefully. The track is about the circle of life and how quickly it completes that circle, with the hope that goals will be reached.

 

“A.I.” is present-day, which makes no sense to these folks. The guitar is rocking out on this track (Courtesy of Barry Scott). There are many opinions about artificial intelligence, and you hear a powerful take on this subject set to some incredible musicianship. It's a straight-ahead rocker that might not make sense to some due to its content. I like the line, “Man or machine, you just never know.” And that is so true.

 

“This Isn't A Love Song” tells you what they are singing about right up front. Just some random thought I decided to put to ink,” the singer explains. He talks about a lovely woman who moves and sways and how breathtaking it is. Some nice guitar lines populate the track with some honest vocals that are just right to emphasize the lyrics. It’s a real toe-tapper. It's like the smooth sailing sounds of a Jimmy Buffet number.

 

“Back To The Bullet” certainly is a change in direction for track titles! It starts with a strumming acoustic and electric slide, giving it a blues-country feel. It's about a convicted person for murder singing that they are innocent and to be hanged and on the run to get back to his family. He sings, asking, “What is free?” and the sound of a prison cell door closing ends it.

 

“The Musician” had a record collection when he was three years old, and he saw The Beatles on Sullivan. After that night, he and thousands of other kids knew what they wanted to be. The only thing I remember about watching that is getting mad at all the girls screaming because I could not hear them playing! It is a touching song about sweet memories and how music made the singer whole. That combination of rhythmic acoustic guitar and tasteful electric is added to give the song a rich, layered sound. The vocals are soft and thoughtful, as they are on many of these tracks.

 

“Expanding Shadows” starts with an old-fashioned organ playing to give it that Halloween sound and perfect lyrics. The track is much different than all the previous tracks. It's dark but light-hearted, a step away from the other tracks' message. However, that is the point; it sounds like the band is having fun with all the different types of music and scary lyrics. It is my favorite track on the album.

 

“Where Would I Be” returns to a softer approach to people, love, and emotion. The track could be about a significant person—whatever the listener wants to interpret it, as is always the case with any song. The lead guitar and piano playing on this track add a layer of emotion. The lyrics and vocals are heartfelt and moving, resonating with the listener personally.

 

Now it's time to close the recording with the title track, “Life Notes.” After all, this entire album is about a lifetime of memories, events, and the feelings that surrounded that. This one is thoughtful and about the meaning of life, and the message is clear: it's about whatever we hold dear. And that, to me, resonates. The music is well played, and the lyrics are expressive, with that ever-present strumming acoustic, but, this time, an electric slide for some more flavor and emphasis is added.

 

Life Notes is a versatile album that will resonate with music listeners who like to reflect upon their lives and those who could use a little push to do so. The album's soft approach and the moments they decided to cut loose and rock keep the listener engaged. The exemplary musicianship, thoughtful lyrics, and vocals that place enough emphasis on the words when needed make for an absorbing listening experience from start to finish.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder

September 13, 2024

Tracks:

01. Don't Waste The Dawn 04:12

02. Decisions 06:18

03. Music In Heaven 04:11

04. 350 Degrees 03:13

05. A.I. 04:32

06. This Isn't A Love Song 03:53

07. Back To The Bullet 03:20

08. The Musician 05:15

09. Expanding Shadows 02:30

10. Where Would I Be 03:58

11. Life Notes 02:51

Jazz Fusion Review: Keith Fiala-New Beginnings

Release Date: May 17, 2024

Label: ‎ Che Cosa Guardare

Website

When was the last time you listened to a sound jazz recording? One that had a fusion of ambient, chill, and new age mixed in? Well, it has been quite some time for this listener since I have heard a recording like Keith Fiala's New Beginnings.

"Let Go" starts things off grandly with much energy and emotion. It has a funky backbeat with an on-point rhythm section and some sharp guitar lines weaving throughout, as Keith's smooth trumpet lays down the foundation to build on. It's a great start to raise your spirits and get that blood pumping.

"She's So Sweet" is the latest track released before the full album's release on May 17th. It is sexy, smooth, and oh-so-sweet. The funky bass and guitar complement the trumpet quite nicely.

"Cityscape" hits the streets on a hot summer night. Think NYC with all the neon lights and the nightclubs full of people and music having a good time. It is nighttime in the city that never sleeps, and a musical soundtrack that keeps that energy flowing and growing. Jazz meets funk with just the right touch.

"Flow" starts with an excellent piano introduction as the trumpet slides in quickly. It is chill jazz for the easy chair on a moonlight night or a table for two in the corner with a candle burning so you can only see each other and nobody else—romance at a nice slow and easy pace. The beautiful trumpet with a prominent bass holds up the bottom end with authority and a softly touched drum for added elegance.

"Hollywood & Vine" returns to the city with different colors and attitudes. It's different than NYC. Here, we have movie stars, rock stars, and many exciting and well-to-do people. Is it a façade, or does the music make it all real? Once again, the bass is prominent, leading the way as the trumpet quickly makes its point. A synth adds some layers for a different touch, playing a more significant role as the track moves closer to its conclusion. 

"Lorena" is very different from all the previous tracks. It starts with a Latin-flavored acoustic riff as the trumpet makes its entrance beautifully, as it always does. The timing is superb, and some excellent percussion keeps the atmosphere of the serenade to the ladies intact from beginning to end. It is an instrumental love song with all the trimmings to make it memorable and picturesque. Viva Fiala!

"How Long Can I Wait" starts with many different sounds converging simultaneously. It is hectic, and Keith's smooth-as-silk trumpet tempers the enthusiasm of the activities around it. It is one of the more distinct tracks and needs your ears' clarification. For me, it was progressive jazz fusion. It may take a few listens to get it.

"MB's Groove" is a slow and passionate groove, with the trumpet, bass, and drums seemingly in sync with the same purpose: to lay it down so you can get into “your groove” while listening. There is a short burst of the keys around the midpoint as the horn takes a break and then comes back to lead the way to the close. The track is so smooth; it is quiet storm jazz at its finest.

"Beyond Infinity" starts winding towards the end of this jazz omnibus, as more funk comes your way with a super funked-up bass with a low-end sound. A pedal is being used for that unique sound. Keith's trumpet just kills it straight on through. Then jazz to infinity and beyond with a cool keyboard section more than halfway through. It has a lot of different elements blending to make it one of the more unique tracks.

"Wits End" is the end, the curtain closer to a delightful jazz fusion listen. It ends appropriately with that very funky backbeat and guitar playing a complementary role to Keith's amazing trumpet playing. Some of the horn parts sound like classic 70s jazz and an excellent guitar with its wah-wah effects. It's a trip back in time to the modern way.

This could be New Beginnings for many listeners. For this jazz lover, it was a welcome return and reminder of how much I love jazz fusion and artists who are willing to push the boundaries of the genre, which Keith Fiala does on this recording with great success. This consistent and solid release keeps your attention from beginning to end.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder

May 13, 2024

Tracks:

01. Let Go 

02. She’s So Sweet 

03. Cityscape 

04. Flow 

05. Hollywood & Vine 

06. Lorena

07. How Long Can I Wait 

08. MB’s Groove 

09. Beyond Infinity 

10. Wits End 

Featured Jazz Track: Keith Fiala-She’s So Sweet

 "She's So Sweet" is Keith Fiala's most recent single. 

The girl on the cover sure looks sweet, doesn't she? Once you hear this man's trumpet playing, you will agree that that horn has plenty of sweetness!

While listening to this track, I was reminded of the smoothness of the incredible Herb Alpert. One of the cool things about it is a sitar solo by Ken Berry. That was certainly an unexpected twist in a jazz tune. As different as that may seem, it works incredibly well. With that in mind, the artist should continue to pursue this divergent path in his musical journey.

If Keith Fiala decides to push the trumpet's boundaries, I think the outcome will be as captivating as "She's So Sweet."

Give it a listen. If you like to explore something different for a change, you will appreciate it as much as I did.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder

Monday, April 29, 2024

Keith Fiala is a master LA-based trumpeter, composer/arranger, author, producer, technical consultant, and clinician.

He's been a featured member of the legendary Maynard Ferguson Band, as well as with Maestro Arturo Sandoval's various ensembles.

Formerly, Arturo’s assistant, Fiala, was an active, integral part of and participant in Sandoval's recordings, live performances, and film scoring/soundtrack efforts…READ MORE…

Blues-Rock-Country Review: Dion-Girl Friends

Release Date: March 8, 2024

Label: ‎INGROOVES

Website

Dion has been making music for a mighty long time. He is one of the few who recorded music in the 50s and 60s that is still alive and relevant. That point alone should tell you something about the man's resilience and determination. It tells me a lot.

 

Girl Friends is another winner, his most recent release with an all-star cast. As you can see by the CD cover, all his guests are the ladies accompanying him on twelve tracks of blues, rock, and country-flavored tunes. I enjoyed it from start to finish, and Dion is in fine form musically and vocally.

 

Track one begins "Soul Force," an excellent way to kick off things with the fiery Susan Tedeschi. They both rock the house as Dion sings, "Superpower stronger by the hour."

 

"I Aim to Please" with Danielle Nicole is a country-inflected mover! This one has a great call answer from the duo and is a real toe-tapper. 

 

"Stop Drop and Roll" with Valerie Tyson features a strumming acoustic guitar with lots of rhythm and harmonizing. It is a country pop tune with banjo and excellent electric six-string licks. Some foot-stompin' country, y'all!

 

"Do Ladies Get the Blues" with Christine Ohlman & Debbie Davies asks the question. By all accounts, it is true. The ladies and Dion bring it home to make you a believer as some stinging electric guitar heats things to a boil and the bottom end cooks right along with it.

 

"An American Hero" with Carlene Carter is my favorite track because of its meaning. Dion sings, "We need an American hero to stand up for everyone." Never was there a time in our history was that truer. Carlene Carter was a great choice with her voice, and they punctuated every word, which gave me chills.

 

"Don't You Want a Man Like Me" with the soulful Rory Block and some acoustic slide guitar to get those embers of passion burning. The rhythm section is rock solid; hard rockin' blues burn the fuel as they sing "Some Like It Hot."

 

"Sugar Daddy" with Christine Ohlman's breathy vocals and steady rhythms merge for another rockin' blues workout. Acoustic and electric guitars soar!

 

"Endless Highway" with Randi Fishenfeld features exceptional bass, with the track deep in Americana roots and country twang. Dion is in great form.

 

"I Got Wise," with Maggie Rose starting the vocals, is the first on the album without Dion leading off. Dion comes in to answer her at a slow and emotional pace—a very atmospheric track.

 

"Hey, Suzy" with Sue Foley is a kind of old-fashioned love song. The duo combination is perfect, with Dion showing that he still has some range in his vocals. The country and blues-varied guitar lines hit the bullseye.

 

"Mama Said" with Shemekia Copeland is soulful, with Shemekia singing "Listen boy"…as Dion responds. It was another strong and well-rounded effort by the duo.

 

"Just Like That" with Joanne Shaw Taylor is a great closer with smokin' hot guitar lines as they cross the finishing line with conviction.

 

Girl Friends is an eclectic range of artists providing music and vocals that keep it a satisfying listen from beginning to end. The booklet accompanying the CD has an excellent write-up from Dion about the "feminine genius" and how it has surrounded his life. Also, he adds comments about each artist.

 

Dion proves once again that age has nothing to do with a great musician and a singer's capabilities as long as you have the experience, confidence, and belief in your craft. It is a solid release, and everyone involved should be proud.

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder

February 27, 2024

Tracks:

01. Soul Force with Susan Tedeschi

02. I Aim to Please with Danielle Nicole

03. Stop Drop and Roll with Valerie Tyson

04. Do Ladies Get the Blues with Christine Ohlman & Debbie Davies

05. An American Hero with Carlene Carter

06. Don't You Want a Man Like Me with Rory Block

07. Sugar Daddy with Christine Ohlman

08. Endless Highway with Randi Fishenfeld

09. I Got Wise with Maggie Rose

10. Hey Suzy with Sue Foley

11. Mama Said with Shemekia Copeland

12. Just Like That with Joanne Shaw Taylor

Rock-Progressive Review: 6 Turning 4 Burning-6T4B

Release Date: August 26, 2023

Label: Bomber Records

Website

Those Hellraisers From Cleveland, Ohio, 6 Turning 4 Burning, have released a rock album for all true music lovers to give a spin or to blare from your vehicle while cruising down the roads of America. Listen to 6T4B, and I will tell you why track by track.

Indicative of the cover art, they will appeal to those who believe in the freedom of the U.S. and the open roads to travel anywhere. Their music is very eclectic, bordering or launching into full-on progressive.

"Crazy Peace" is an instant satisfying rocker, and the lyrics are a riot! It is about the lady friend or wife, as it may, having their crazy "time of the month." It is a great way to kick off the album. Also, you will hear some exemplary musicianship on the recording. It is bound to click when you assemble a group of seasoned players. The second track, which clocks in at 7:02, is a tribute to their all-around talents and a tight band exhibiting all their skills within one track. It is a killer track featuring all aspects of the band at each position. Notably, the vocals are outstanding.

"So Deep" was a famous track that got thousands of views. It is a rocking love song, a slow cooker, and a tremendous vocal performance. It serves as another dimension of the band to be admired and appreciated.

"Help Me Through This" differs significantly from the previous tracks for 8:29. The guitar playing is bluesy, which fits the lyrics nicely. I am getting more impressed the further I get into the album. The diversification is quite impressive. And because of that, it keeps things interesting. Also, with extensive songs, it is essential not to lose the listener. That never happens because of all the changes. This one is a progressive rocker.

"Something's Wrong" keeps up with the pattern of change. The track starts with a soft acoustic guitar as the bass and drums come in. The vocals are heartfelt and expressing the lyrics beautifully. If you like blues-country tracks, this one is a nice change from the previous track. They sound like a different band on this one.

"It's Over" starts with a funky bass line accompanied by a driving guitar line, then it changes into a slower pace to emphasize the lyrics about the abuse of drugs and all the struggles it can bring. It doesn't sound like any fun, and it should discourage those wanting to take drugs. I think that was the point. As the song lumbers along, the words hit you like a brick wall at 90 mph, saying, "Cocaine's got me down, rest in peace." About halfway through, the song turns into the fast line as the bottom end pushes it along. The guitar plays some fat chords and nice cutting lines to show off their chops. It is another excellent track with 8:44 of fantastic changes and music to keep you wondering what is coming next. Then, at the end, you can hear someone snorting coke.

"Karma" is another long one coming in at 9:34, so I am amazed at how they can keep pumping out all these impressive tracks with such length and complexities. It starts with some definitive chicken pickin', rapid drumming, and a big bass sound. It all changes as it goes back and forth with different paces and styles of playing. It's like a country-fried rocker with hints of the blues for extra color. You may wonder when the vocals will come in, but they finally arrive well into 3+ minutes. And in this case, that is a good thing, as I enjoyed the long instrumental intro. The vocals add their sentiments with lines like "Karma speaks to you all alone." Those words change how we can relate to and experience karma. Which, of course, works if you believe in it. I believe in it without question, so I found the lyrics relatable.

"Take a Hike" is their magnum opus, dialing in at 11:24. I did not know what to expect with a track this long; it had to be progressive. At least, that was my first thought. It starts epically with a hard-driving metallic power; then they start reciting lines from the bible to help save them from the dark master himself, the Devil. It is an incredible track with magnificent music. It is reflective, opaque, and anticipatory. This one convinced me what a superior group of players this band is. Fans of Black Sabbath would love this one for sure. It is most certainly a hike to the darker side of life. In typical fashion, at 4+ minutes, it completes changes in pace and sound. This bass is prolific here. The vocals reminded me of Ian Gillan of Deep Purple. It is so soulful and passionate, and if anyone wants to know how good this band can play, it should be your first track. It's a must! And remember what they say in the song "Don't listen to Devil!" "Take a hike, Devil, disappear!" All instruments are superb throughout the run of the song.

So, if all of that wasn't enough, they test their abilities by covering the ELP classic 'Lucky Man" within 10:07. Could they once again prove themselves as a legitimate force in music? It starts differently than the original, then changes to the more familiar melody you are used to hearing in 2+ minutes. The vocals are excellent, and the music from start to finish is outstanding. It was risky to close out such a superior recording like that, but they pulled it off like the five-star band they are.

6T4B is a title that may give people a different idea of what this band is all about, including the cover art. Trust me on this one; you are in for a treat for the senses with 6 Turning 4 Burning. Every track is entertaining and well-played, and you will be sorry it all ends, so play it again.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder

December 6, 2023

Tracks:

1. Crazy Peace 5:26

2. Release Me 7:02

3. So Deep 5:28

4. Help Me Through This 8:29

5. Something's Wrong 4:25

6. It's Over 8:44

7. Karma 9:34

8. Take a Hike 11:24

9. Lucky Man 10:07

Rock Review: Dreamstreet-2.0

Release Date: September 23, 2023

Label: ‎ Red Fields Entertainment LLC

Website

Dreamstreet version 2.0 harkens back to the '70s and the popularity of AOR (album-oriented rock). I was one of those people who would tune into a radio station out of Boston or Hartford to hear this type of music. Sometimes, they would play an entire album. It's an early version of streaming, just over the radio waves. History can repeat itself and look different while using the same concepts.

The track "You Got Me Rockin" says it all for content, a simple message with great vocals and musicianship to drive it down that road of the excitement of days gone by or, if you are new to the genre, a discovery worth experiencing. I am sure this band is a blast in a live setting.

 

Tracks like "Heartzone" are classic rock ballads, and the longest track clocks in at 5:21. The bass and drums are critical to making this rock clock tick along. Three-quarters in the lead guitar takes off to give you a taste of what they can do within one song. They change the pace and intensity, and the vocals are perfect. It reminded me of the powerful vocals of Kansas at their height.

 

A surprise is the cover of Gary Wright's "Love Is Alive." It is one of my favorites of the time, so this was a big test of how good this band could be. Musically, it is a sound cover, and the vocals would be the most challenging thing to emulate. The vocals were average compared to the music provided. But you expect a vocalist to sound like the original, so I am being critical; however, I liked the way they ended it.

 

"On The Edge" is another excellent example of the AOR genre and how to present it. The keys, bass, drums, and supporting guitar leads that bite and make the song powerful and expressive. 

If you are a guitar enthusiast and like hook-filled songs, Dreamstreet will be the band for you. Find out for yourself and stream the album with the Spotify player provided. If you're a rocker, you will find value and enjoy listening to Dreamstreet.

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder

December 5, 2023

Tracks:

1. Money 

2. Power of Love 

3. Forever Yours 

4. Head Troubles 

5. Love Is Alive 

6. Heartzone 

7. On The Edge 

8. Time To Go Home 

9. You Got Me Rockin

Instrumental Holiday Jazz Review: Mads Tolling - Featuring The Mads Men & Sonny Fredie-Pedersen-Cool Yule

Release Date: December 8, 2023

Label: ‎ Madsman Records

Website

Mads Tolling grew up in Denmark with a strong tradition of the Christmas season as an essential part of his upbringing. His heartfelt tribute to that time and the meaning it holds for him is preserved forever in his heart. With all that emotion and memory, he decided to record some of his family's favorite songs on Cool Yule.

Remember that the songs selected were from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Iceland. So, some tracks may only seem traditional if you have never been exposed to that country's holiday music. 

It's cool because the tracks are performed in the style of holiday music via the jazz idiom and are all instrumental, except for the title track with special guest Sonny Fredie-Pederson. Jazz music always works well with traditional and nontraditional wintertime holiday music. However, I don't recall covering a recording with the violin as the lead instrument in this type of music. 

The first question that will likely come up in your mind is, will it sound close enough to the originals? How will the violin sound as a lead instrument? Well, Jean-Luc Ponty proved it could work in the complicated music of progressive rock and beyond, so why can't Mads Tolling do the same within jazz? It is not an easy task, but I am here to tell you it works out wonderfully. One is because they keep it fresh, and the second is because the improvisation is brilliant while maintaining the true spirit of the music and its original concept and base sound. 

I, for one, have had a love for jazz for over thirty years now. That love and appreciation have grown more robust with each passing year. So, with that thought in mind and my passion for the ability of jazz to stretch out, this is an entirely enjoyable listen. 

A few good examples of the tracks taking things down a different improvisational path because of the violin are "My Favorite Things," of course, Coltrane comes to mind right away when you mention that if you are a jazz enthusiast. "Pa Loftet Sidder Nissen (The Gnome's Attic)" was extraordinary, with superb violin, bass lines, and piano. Then, there is a complete switch when you will immediately recognize "Santa Baby." One of my most unique favorites was "Jolakotturinn (The Christmas Cat)," which sounded very Celtic-influenced or something one may have heard during medieval times.

There are many reasons to appreciate and enjoy a recording like Cool Yule. Mainly because the violin takes the lead and factors like the jazz interpretations and how much ground the band covers worldwide regarding countries. All of that adds up to a unique holiday album that is suitable for listening any time of the year, and that is because eclecticism overrides all the other factors and can keep a listener engaged from start to finish. After all, isn't that what drives a musician to create in the first place? And then, to produce something so unique and significant is another surprise to find in your Christmas stocking this year.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder

December 2, 2023

Tracks:

01. The Christmas Song 5:29

02. My Favorite Things 6:10

03. Pa Loftet Sidder Nissen (The Gnome's Attic) 5:04

04. Santa Baby 3:18

05. I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus 3:16

06. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town 3:28

07. Jolakotturinn (The Christmas Cat) 5:00

08. Let It Go 5:25

09. Cool Yule 3:56

10. Sankta Lucia 5:32

11. The Little Mermaid/Wonderful, Wonderful Copenhagen 4:46

12. I Am So Glad Each Christmas Eve 5:22

Featured Track Review: Paul Adams-Moon Over Prairie

"Moon Over Prairie" is an acoustic guitar track from Paul Adams. He describes it as a painting of the prairie. It is an organic spacial fingerstyle piece in the mood of John Fahey, Leo Kottke, or Will Ackerman.

After listening to the track and watching the video, I agree with that assessment. The spatial reference applies to the track and the beautiful video accompanying it.

Paul is a challenging artist to pin down. He is too eclectic to do so. His acoustic guitar playing is outstanding, with flavorings from blues (albeit some excellent slide playing) to country. And he does it all to make it sound rooted in Americana, along with a touch of ethereal.

Paul Adams's track and video of "Moon Over Prairie" is picturesque enough without the video. However, the images presented help to complete the painting, and the moments he creates in the music tell the story. It is over 5 minutes of instrumental acoustic guitar that any music lover can appreciate.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder

November 6, 2023

I wonder what it is that Paul Adams doesn't do? Working in multiple genres, his 13 critically acclaimed albums have over 128 million streams on Pandora and can be heard on Spotify, Sirius Radio The Spa, Music Choice, Amazon Radio, Echoes, Apple Radio, Tidal and other worldwide platforms...READ MORE...

Acoustic Instrumental Review: New Latitude-Nature of Things

Release Date: May 17, 2023

Label: ‎ Independent

Website

New Latitude’s most recent release Nature of Things, is an acoustic instrumental five-track EP.

The Musicians are Dave Erickson (acoustic guitar), Jim Carr (acoustic guitar), Bob Strickland, Kim Stone (upright bass), and Steven Schumann (cello). 

 

“Led to Believe” starts, and the sounds are like a warm summer breeze gently caressing your face. It is instrumental jazz, like the quiet storm of smooth jazz. 

 

“Invisible Frame” follows in the same manner. However, it is a more straight-ahead acoustic track with a soft rock touch. Some nice acoustic guitar and picking is the feature here. It ends with the sound of a cymbal closing it out elegantly as possible. 

 

“Tribute” continues to show the magnificent guitar duo of Dave Erickson and Jim Carr. The two gents form an irresistible groove like a breeze over the ocean as it cools the hot sun on the beach. I understand that the track’s title does not translate to my interpretation. However, that is what I felt and envisioned while listening. It’s my “Tribute” to their work.

 

“Circumstances Have Changed” reaches back to the jazz roots with a Latin flavor that is very pleasant to hear. These two men know how to create a beautiful and satisfying sound with their acoustic guitars. And I must say I enjoyed the diversity and changes within all the tracks. That is how you can showcase your talents appropriately and in good measure. They do it with such class and precision; this track exemplifies that.

 

“Softer Than Silence” closes out this gorgeous EP of instrumental mastery. It is simply acoustic guitars doing their dance with each other. I think that was a great choice; keep it straightforward to end it all with a gentleness you will remember. 

 

Their rhythm is exceptional and leaves you with a smile, knowing you can revisit it all and feel the same way. That is all any artist could ask for, an attentive and appreciative audience that knows their music will brighten and soothe their souls. 

 

Nature of Things delivers on all the most critical points, excellent musicianship, production, sound, and tastefulness for anyone to enjoy. It is diverse enough to catch the ear of any serious music listener, and it certainly has a crossover appeal that will serve them well.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder

June 12, 2023

Track Listing:

1. Led to Believe (3:53)

2. Invisible Frame (3:38)

3. Tribute (4:19)

4. Circumstances Have Changed (3:45)

5. Softer Than Silence (3:11)

Instrumental Jazz Review: Manuel Muzzu-From T(h)ree To Four

Release Date: March 12, 2023

Label: ‎ Independent

Website

From T(h)ree To Four is Manuel Muzzu's fourth studio album. It has been five years since I covered New Stories-Old Hands.

 

For those of you who may not be familiar with Manuel's story, he lost the use of his fingers on his right very early in life. His love for the bass and overcoming his disability is one of the miracles of his life. He endeavored to play as anyone else would typically and somehow adapt a style that worked for him.

 

You only record four albums if you can create palatable music and sound professional. For that matter, Manuel's talent is above average. Using the bass as a lead instrument is not uncommon but infrequent. With that fact in mind, it makes what he has accomplished more remarkable.

 

I have heard my share of the greats over the years and enjoyed the privilege of covering their music. Manuel's sense of rhythm and fluidity gives his instrument room to breathe and adjust to the music behind him. He has a host of additional musicians contributing, including synth, piano, trumpet, saxophone, flugelhorn, guitar, and drums. A complete ensemble to fill in the missing spaces to make each composition complete and allow his bass to lead the way.

 

What you will hear are various shades and colors of the jazz spectrum. "Punky Funky," my favorite track, is jazz-funk, while "Jeff's Style" is smooth jazz. Jumping from one style to another is impressive, and most importantly, you can keep your audience tuned in and waiting in anticipation for the next track. I like a wide range of jazz and subgenres. It holds many aspects that keep me engrossed in what I listen to. It creates a sense of wonderment about the talent you are hearing and how eclectic one genre can be. Jazz is a complex type of music that draws from many sources, including the blues. The ability to shape and mold those resources requires talent and patience to give birth to the varied tracks you will hear on this recording.

 

"Salsamba" is another instance of a complete change in direction to the energetic salsa and samba sound. Two different jazz styles merged, which is more challenging to create with a good flow. Manuel is exceptionally talented at diverting to any kind he desires. He does it all with a successful blend of his supporting instruments and an excellent bass command.

 

From T(h)ree To Four is an album that any jazz lover will appreciate because it crosses into many different styles. If you genuinely love jazz, you will understand this consummate representation of the genre. Anyone seeking exceptional instrumental jazz will find their way to this recording, not to mention those seeking a hero and an example of overcoming all the odds to do what he loved and shine brightly. Manuel Muzzu presents the miracle of a man's courage and persistence through twelve tracks you will thoroughly enjoy.

 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder

June 6, 2023

Tracks:

01. LAST ONE (6:19)

02. ON MY SIDE (4:40)

03. PUNKY FUNKY (5:09)

04. LOST IN (8:25)

05. JEFF's STYLE (4:14)

06. SALSAMBA  (5:49)

07. RIGHT NOW (6:36)

08. URBANOISES  (4:56)

09. SPARKLE PURPLE (6:20)

10. M'I ?  (4:15)