Point Of Reference
Zen Diagram, 2020
8/10
An album that arrived 16 years after his debut, these 10 songs from the guitar luminary Kingsley Durant welcome some of Boston’s finest musicians for some ‘70s influenced fusion.
“Slanky” opens the listen with slow grooves thanks to Baron Browne’s well played bass and, of course, Durant’s agile guitar prowess, and “Come Upstairs” follows with a melodic dreaminess that makes great use of Vinny Sabatino’s frisky drums amid playful guitar.
Halfway through, “Bloomfield” spotlights Steve Hunt’s careful keyboards alongside the reflective tone, while “Ancestral Shadows” radiates a unique warmth of tuneful songwriting and strong attention to mood.
Close to the end, the more dense and meticulous “Give Her My Regrets” allows all 4 players to shine in the heartfelt climate, and “Never The ‘Twain” exits with some classic rock nods and more forceful ideas that we could never tire of.
A listen that embraces jazz, funk, rock, gospel, blues and pop, there’s no lack of solos, sturdy licks and harmonic gestures present, as Durant and company bring a wealth of talent and creativity to the table.
Travels well with: Kingsley Durant- Convertible; Kevin Keller- The Front Porch Of Heaven