DW Project - Emerge

Year of Release: 2003
Label: Essence Of Now Records
Catalog Number: n/a
Format: CD
Total Time: 00:00:00

DW Project is chiefly Dan Walzer (drums, percussion, vibes, keyboards) and Chuck Wiggins (keyboards) with help from their outstanding collaborators Ric Hordinski (acoustic and electric guitars, fretless electric guitar, electric bass, Chapman Stick, loops), Dave Larocca (double bass) and Kerry Jordan (electric bass).

Their new CD gives notice that they are more than ready to Emerge as a compelling force in the instrumental jazz-rock fusion dominion. Although it is multifaceted in its maturation, I found this music quick to assimilate. It all seems to come as a natural matter of course for this talented ensemble to design this breathtaking music. It was very easy for me to fall into the vast pool of sounds offered on this carefully textured and toned amalgamation of jazz. While taking colors from the palettes of specific genres such as rock, jazz and blues, the blend is both appealing and interesting. They in effect create a sub-genre that is hard to define. What you get is one-way ticket around the musical world on one CD, and the price is right.

When I listen to music like this, I cannot help but feel that words would get in the way of the aural landscapes that are painted so beautifully by the instruments alone. If it sounds like I am gushing, it is because I am. I absolutely adore music like this. Because of my love for jazz and progressive rock, I feel that exposure to the best of both worlds is the opportunity that presents itself to me on albums like Emerge. I of course accept the invitation to indulge myself with open arms and ears.

The separation of the instrumentation is out of the ordinary on the disc. You will hear each instrument individually and collectively, which is the key to a complete listening experience. I did, however, notice how the drums and percussion stand out more than normal in this particular mix down. I must be fair though; all the instruments get equal time and sound wonderful. The engineering was obviously paramount in helping to make this CD such an audio connoisseur's delight.

If you like jazz, rock, fusion, progressive rock, blues, or any combination thereof you will love this album. I could have easily listened to another disc full of this music; it is only a little over 40 minutes, which is not enough for my insatiable appetite. It is okay to go away hungry though, that way I will be ready to devour the next entrée served.

Tracklisting:
Intro: Bayou / Samba De Verdad / Emerge / Nardis / Salsa Raga / Invisible Me / Blues for Munk / Driving Music / Bembe

Musicians:
Dan Walzer - drums, percussion, vibes, keyboards
Ric Hordinski - acoustic and electric guitars, fretless electric guitar, electric bass, Chapman Stick, loops
Dave Larocca - double bass
Kerry Jordan - electric bass
Chuck Wiggins - keyboards

Discography:
Welcome To The Open Door (2001)
Emerge (2003)

Genre: Fusion-Jazz Fusion

Origin US

Added: April 20th 2003
Reviewer: Keith "Muzikman" Hannaleck
Score:
Artist website:
Hits: 2561
Language: english