MP3 Wolfgang Schalk - Wanted

8 MP3 Songs in this album (57:49) !
Related styles: JAZZ: Bebop, JAZZ: Contemporary Jazz

People who are interested in Wes Montgomery Pat Metheny George Benson should consider this download.


Details:
A guitarist with not only impeccable chops but one who plays with deep soulfulness and feeling, Wolfgang Schalk delivers his freshest recording to date with Wanted, further proving his artistic abilities while providing music that is relevant and thoroughly engaging. Recalling the sounds of esteemed fret-board masters Wes Montgomery, George Benson, Pat Martino and Pat Metheny, Schalk expands on the tradition by providing dynamic music witnessed on his previous recordings: Space Messengers (2005, Universal/Emarcy) and Rainbows in the Night (2002, West East Music). This artful blend of hard swinging and cool vibes is articulated through an outstanding quartet of veteran musicians that includes bassist Dave Carpenter, pianist Geoffrey Keezer and drummer Marvin "Smitty" Smith. The extremely tight band delivers eight new Schalk compositions that encompass a variety of textures and moods. Tunes like the bopping title song and "W 46" (dedicated to Wes Montgomery) with their scorching tempos and solos; the Latin-tinged rhythms on the beautiful ballad "A New Something" and the soothing "What Makes Me Think" (both showing Schalk's distinctive acoustic guitar prowess); and the poignant "And Harry Said Goodbye" (dedicated in memory of European master guitarist, Harry Pepl). Every track on Wanted exposes Schalk's consummate skill and thoughtfulness as one of today's authentic jazz guitarists.

Jazz.com writes: Wanted is yet another wonderful album from guitarist Wolfgang Schalk. The material, ranging from slow impressionistic ballads to straight-ahead to fusion, is a bit more diverse than some of his past efforts. Of particular interest is his beautiful acoustic playing. On "A New Something" Schalk makes his acoustic speak. Each ringing note drips with feeling. His spatial introduction leads to a cleverly assembled heartfelt melody. It is instantly memorable. Pianist Keezer gently doubles-up with Schalk, who effortlessly slides into a quicker tempo quasi-Gypsy swing in the tune's midsection. He is followed by Keezer's own, equally effective turn. While drummer Smith adds percussive emphasis, bassist Dave Carpenter serves as the tune's linchpin. He also offers a genuinely creative solo in an interesting counterpoint to Schalk's restatement of the tune's introduction. This is very moving music played with a purpose, and further bolsters Schalk's well-deserved acclaim as guitarist and composer.â¨Sadly, this was one of Dave Carpenter's last recorded performances. His untimely passing would take place the following summer. Schalk dedicates the album to him. -by Walter Kolosky (RATING: 91/100)

"It is a terrific listening experience"- Fred Jung (All About Jazz / Down Beat Critics Poll)


Musicians:
Wolfgang Schalk / guitars
Geoffrey Keezer / piano
Dave Carpenter / bass
Marvin âSmittyâ Smith / drums

All music composed by Wolfgang Schalk
Produced by Wolfgang Schalk
Recorded at Paramount / Encore Studio, Los Angeles, CA
Engineer: Reinhard Buchta