News Blues
Self-Released, 2021
8/10
The Montréal rooted musician Greg Amirault knows his way around a guitar, and here along with Steve Amirault, Adrian Vedady and Jim Doxas he brings us his 3rd recording as leader, where originals and covers unfold in his memorable jazz formula.
The title track opens the listen with Greg’s fluid, warm guitar work alongside cozy keys and Doxas’ very precise drumming amid the timeless jazz climate, and “Tribute Tune” follows with a reflective tone that benefits much from Steve’s agile keys.
In the middle, “Song For Nova Scotia” makes the most of its gentle melody alongside the stirring guitar and emotive folk landscape, while “Uninvited” shakes and bounces with a frisky charm thanks to playful keys, punchy drumming and Vedady’s strategic bass.
“If You Could See Me Now” appears near the end and offers much grace and beauty in the classic ballad, as Greg takes this one on solo with stunning results, and “Embraceable You” takes a similar approach, where the bare exit flows with much emotion.
News Blues is a diverse affair, where hard swingin’ tracks as well as contemplative moments illustrate Greg’s strong attention to detail, and the quartet’s 20+ years of playing together in some form are certainly evident and appreciated, too.
Travels well with: Carn Davidson 9- The History Of Us; Wild Blue Herons- You & I