Wolfgang Schalk From Here to There (180GV with Download Card)

From Here to There marks a brave step forward by one of the most innovative musicians on today's scene. Guitarist and composer Wolfgang Schalk's new album From Here to There is an electrifying statement celebrating the "power of now" in jazz. Schalk's new compositions plus a fresh take on Ellington's "Satin Doll" bring the listener on a swinging spiritual journey from the first note. His band - Andy Langham (piano), Carlitos Del Puerto (bass), Clarence Penn (drums) - masterfully support Schalk's characteristic warm sound and swinging lines. From Here to There, released on Frame Up Music and Schalk's 7th album as a leader, stands as one of his finest works. Following his acclaimed Word Of Ear (Frame Up Music 2012), this collaborative tour de force is a palette of soulful attitudes and vibes. Schalk's intimacy of style, so evident in the title song, affirm his status as one of the most talented guitarists of his generation. Schalk demonstrates his virtuosity on the nylon string acoustic guitar in the meditative opener "Zensibility," conveying a feeling of timeless, beguiling introspection. Schalk's impressive timing and structure for improvisation continues in the blues "The Now Catcher," where technique is used in service to a subtle musical intelligence. Both of the up-tempo tunes "Last Night's Song" and "Wow Wow What", are a reflection of the bands inner dynamics both on a musical and emotional level. Schalk's rolling vamp intro and time changes breath fresh life into "Satin Doll" as does a bright piano break. A quiet reflective intro to "Expressions" leads to a slightly angular grooving propulsive feel that supports Schalk's fleet technique. The album concludes with "Starlit" another song out of Schalk's book - a heartfelt, slightly bossa-flavored intimate piece that leaves the listener with a sweet aftertaste.