By The Water: Craig Schoedler (CD;48.37) http://www.craigschoedler.com/ I first listened to bassist Craig Schoedler's By The Water on a beautiful late fall afternoon in New England, and it was the perfect accompaniment. The compositions are of slow to medium tempo with lots of space, allowing the musicians ample room to improvise. The melodies are catchy and the vibe of the disc is smooth - but not smooth jazz. Far from it - more like the last few songs you'd hear in a smoky nightclub at 3 a.m. before closing time. The musicians are in a place where magic happens - and that's what is captured on this disc. Schoedler is pictured on the CD jacket with a Ken Smith 5-string bass, which he uses magnificently throughout. There are six songs on the disc - the shortest clocking in at 6:42. The songs were all composed and arranged by Craig. Three of the songs are slightly reminiscent of some of Mike Stern's recordings - which is a good thing - especially since Stern's signature guitar tones are all over those songs. Stern and Vince Collela split the guitar duties, playing on three cuts each – though Collela forgoes solos for a supporting role. Craig Schoedler's bass work is excellent throughout; great ensemble work and tasty, well-thought out solos. Providing expert support are Steve Jordan on drums, Tom Petroski on keyboards and piano, and Ralph Bowen on tenor sax and flute. The keys played mainly a supporting role, setting up an excellent soundscape for the improvisations of Schoedler, Stern, and Bowen. Steve Jordan was, as usual, excellent. All in all, highly recommended! ~Mark J. Rabuffo, EER-Music.com
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