| Jazz |
Here is a well-crafted album, but unfortunately quite traditional at a time when many harmonica players have significantly modernized the genre. Neil Adler is a pianist, harmonica player, and composer, and in fact, the piano parts are far more engaging on this album, such as his interpretation of “Besame Mucho.” We are therefore faced with an album that feels somewhat uneven and struggles to fully convince.
However, I would recommend this album to those interested in practicing the harmonica, as it is played here in a very academic manner. There is much to study, appreciate, and attempt to play just as flawlessly. Yet, once one masters this style of playing, it becomes important to bring out one’s own personality, a personality I clearly see in the piano on this album, which is quite fascinating and sorely lacking in the harmonica. As a result, whenever the harmonica fades, the music becomes a delight, performed by highly skilled musicians.
If we focus on the non-harmonica parts, it’s easy to understand why this musician is in such high demand. Based on the arrangements of the tracks, there is a good deal of genius in all this, though the album seriously lacks originality. Despite multiple listens, I struggled to connect with it. Given the major albums we’ve received lately, it’s hard to evaluate this one. We give it 3 stars, hoping you will find your own joy in it.
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, August 22nd 2024
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