Recorded a decade ago, this one still sounds as
fresh as when it was first released. You could definitely call this
a project as each song title reflects the same theme as the curious
title of the disc. The music moves, and is structurally appealing
as it moves to each interesting phrase.
The haunting, repeated phrasing serves as a back
drop to Loeb's guitar on the opening track called "Just Us." His
active guitar is lively and crisp throughout. He continues to build
momentum as this one comes to a climatic ending. It's always a
fun one to see played in concert. "Beneath the Light" is
the next track and uses dynamic phrasing to make for a very interesting
number. It's a great follow up to the first track with Benson-like
riffs that I know you’ll enjoy. "Hand in Hand" is
a little darker in the approach and features Andy Snitzer on sax
as this opens up a little bit from the initial offering. Loeb’s
wife Carmen Cuesta and Rob Mathes are brought in for background
vocals.
James Taylor’s "Don’t Let Me Be
Lonely Tonight" comes off well. Nelson Rangell's sax adds a
little spice to the mix. Chuck plays this one straight up and does
the original proud. The one vocal here is a number written by Loeb
and bassist Will Lee entitled "The Stars." Carmen once
again graces the words while Chuck plays along on acoustic. My
favorite has to be the rousing "Above Us." A short driving
intro leads into a very methodical, syncopated set of riffs which
builds for quite a bit before cascading back down with accented vocal.
Bob James is featured with some very nice piano work that he is so
famous for. The climb begins again as it reaches an exciting finale. "Shine
On" is more laid back in its approach. Snitzer is back on soprano
this time. The phrasing is very good for Loeb and is further enhanced
by the sax. "While We Speak" picks up where the previous
leaves off. Snitzer picks up his tenor this time instead. Loeb’s
electric shines and sounds as fresh as ever.
The light and lively "....of Love and the Setting
Sun" keeps things simple while all along weaving a nice melody
that you’ll really enjoy. Loeb is featured extensively here,
and does some of his best work. Jon Werking’s piano is a nice
touch. "Water Runs Dry" finishes up the disc. It’s
a very simple song that has Loeb on acoustic this time with very
little background. It has that same hooK that makes so many of his
songs fun to listen to. They have character and feel like they are
leading you some place you want to go.
You may not have this one in your collection or
may not have some of Chuck Loeb’s earlier material. This is
sure one to get or dust off. There are a lot of timeless gems here
that I know you’re sure to enjoy. It was fun just going back
and hearing this one again. |