With his brand new CD ‘Around (Again)’ guitarist Drew Davidsen has really hit the ground running. Not only is it becoming one of the most talked about releases of the year but has also led to his nomination in the category ‘Best New Artist’ at the up coming American Smooth Jazz Awards that will take place in Michigan City, IN on October 29. With featured performances from bassist Gerald Veasley and Special EFX keyboard player Jay Rowe the album is already garnering considerable interest with both terrestrial and internet radio.
Despite the current buzz Davidsen is far from being an overnight sensation. He enjoys long standing status as a ‘go to’ session player and his first solo CD, ‘The Journey’, has been described as one of the most compelling urban jazz collections of recent years. However with ‘Around (Again)’ his time has really come and he gets things started with ‘Bounce’ which, despite a dreamily melodic introduction, quickly takes on the sort of edgy smooth jazz vibe that befits its title. The tune is currently being aired on Music Choice Cable television and another track grabbing media interest is ‘Astro’. Already in rotation at The Wave 94.7 in LA, this intense number finds Davidsen’s playing to be reminiscent of Nils at his very best.
The spicy yet controlled Latin flavour of ‘Island Blues’ is evocative of sandy beaches and blue oceans while ‘Going Coastal’ slips easily into a mid tempo groove and stays there. It’s a mood that fits Davidsen’s style to perfection and there is more of the delightful same with ‘Plus 12’ where a jazzy intent coupled with nice production touches simply adds to the pleasure. ‘Around Again’ shimmers with feel good energy and is enriched by great sax from Dave Krug while the swaggering attitude of ‘Round Trip’ says everything that needs to be said about top notch contemporary jazz.
A mellow disposition and some attractively subliminal backing vocals all combine to make ‘Only 4U’ a chilled out dream and although Davidsen keeps things turned down for the introspective yet melodic ‘Friend’ he closes out the album with ‘Smile’ that has the same warm glow as is evident throughout.
Whatever the outcome of the American Smooth Jazz Awards, there is little doubt that the name of Drew Davidsen is going to be around in smooth jazz for a considerable time to come.
For more go to www.drewdavidsen.com
