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Canada is often recognized around the world for its vast wilderness,
wide-open spaces & bountiful natural resources. But there
is more to discover. I especially speak about the guitar music
of Jamie Bonk. Most of the readers will be experts of guitar
music. Peter White, Marc Antoine, George Benson, Michael O'Neill.
The list is long and endless. Jamie's music concentrates on
what is his best: the guitar. No, it's not a guitar-only album.
There are some professional musicians which supported Jamie's
endeavor: Sonja Mitlewski (keyboards, she's also responsible
for the photos in the booklet), Ron Scott and Shelly Hamilton
(vocals) and Peter Janson (acoustic guitar).
The result
is surprising good. I dare to say sensational. His previous
album received a lot of acclaims and best critics as you can
read at CDBaby. His new one will beat these predecessors. Jamie
admits: "The idea for this piece, and for the album in
general, was to reflect all of the things musical, and otherwise,
that help to define what I do. The challenge, of course, was
to make music that didn't sound like a bunch of styles forced
together and to let my own musical personality shine through.
I think "My World" does just that. Over three years
in the making, I think My World is my strongest
and most diverse record to date."
The starter
"My World" offers Jamie's strong guitar performance
on a dynamic ride. His playing is flowing and perfect and he
always find the moment for some musical reflection. "There's
lots of improv, percolating worldbeat percussion, a bridge section
with some folk/roots rock electric guitar and an overall upbeat
feel to the track," comments Jamie.
"This
Is It" presents an interesting combination of guitar and
synthesizer music with louder and softer parts. Jamie admits:
"This Is It" probably has the edgiest sound I've ever
used. I particularly like the solo in this sample -- emotional
and well-pace."
The explanation
of the strange title of the next piece "'73" is simple.
Jamie: "One of my friends asked me if I named this piece
"'73" because of the Hammond organ sound that's similar
to tones you hear on older Deep Purple records. And the answer
is partly yes! But it's also one of Sonya's favourite years...
so it really had to be "'73". The song has
a romantic intonation by using acoustic guitar and strings.
"If
This Is Love" is presenting the raw voice of singer Ron
Scott. Ron tailored this song for himself and it is a highlight
of this album without any restrictions. Somehow the sound reminds
me a bit at stronger songs of Climie & Fisher.
"Looking
In" is the song Jamie can identify himself with most: "In
many ways, the solo in this sample is the closest to me as an
artist. It truly expresses myself -- emotionally." The
tune has a strong romantic and hooking potential.
When
it goes to live performance Jamie likes the energetic play of "Wiggle"
most. This tune is very guitar-oriented and the best manifest of
Jamie's skills.
"Third
Time" has some American flavor of the 60's. It evokes memories
of the Eagles and some other groups of that time. Jamie mentioned
Byrds and Chris Issak.
An homage
to Maurice and the Bee Gees is "Nights On Broadway" presenting anew Ron Scott.
"What
I Never Said" showcases the style Jamie was playing on
his earlier albums. Quasi as a retrospection.
Shelly and
Jamie's guitar are playing a duet on "Centre Tone".
Remarkable how she hits the syncopes. Somehow the female version
of George Benson...
The final
piece "Waiting For Winter" is a slow contemplative
guitar piece, a dialogue between Jamie and Peter. Very expressive
Sonya's keyboard background.
If you have
a romantic vein don't miss this album.
HBH - Smooth
Jazz.de (2004) |
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