Wednesday, May 16, 2018

USA: Drew Davidsen-InnerSpace (2018)


InnerSpace

The collaborative artistic composite of guitarist Drew Davidsen & producer, multi-instrumentalist Cedric Givens. Totally conceived and performed by the two, the exquisite smooth acoustic guitar performances of Drew Davidsen and polished production arrangements of Cedric Givens has produced a gem called INNERSPACE . The following is a quick walk through of the 7-track studio album. Here is the quick story of these songs. InnerSpace, the title track sets an exploration into a cool drive or that special place to connect metaphysically with the power of the moment. Thrust is a multifaceted compelling groove accentuating a light horn line, developing into a melancholy harmonic melody of smooth rhythms highlighting the artistry which makes Drew Davidsen a virtuoso among the ranks. Bumpin, is a majestic stretch of improvisation with Django style riffs overlaying a Herbie Hancock Headhunters transition to crossover with a Billy Cobham groove, an off-script favorite indeed. Overdrive, is the edgy/driving 2nd movement or part two of InnerSpace, the collective. Uptime is a light up-tempo thematic world music instrumental featuring Drew on acoustic guitar (a feel-good song). Laid Back and My Lullaby are what some would call a Sunday Kind of Love tunes. Both offerings are a poetic adagio of heartfelt Spanish melodies which complement the closure of a perfectly mastered collection of smooth jazz compositions. There is a superb balanced flow to this recording. Just put it on and take a ride.