Dedicated To You
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
A Cuban-born jazz guitarist who has worked with Tony Bennett, Chuck Redd and Jon Faddis, to name a few, Jorge Garcia collaborates with Richie Cole and Hendrikk Meurkens, among others, for the playful jazz spirit of these originals and standards.
“Minority” starts the listen with quick and soulful sax from Cole as Garcia’s warm guitar guides the frisky drumming from James Cotmon, and “This One’s For Richie” follows with swinging mid-tempo fun, where Garcia’s guitar solo makes a sizable impression.
In the middle, “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” recruits Wendy Pedersen’s pretty pipes for the smooth interpretation of the classic, while “You Fascinate Me So” showcases Paul Banman’s mature piano prowess amid the meticulous guitar lines.
Moving towards the end, “S’Wonderful” does justice to the Gershwin original, where Garcia’s swift finger picking is nothing short of stunning, and the title track exits the listen dreamy and melodic, where Garcia’s guitar flows alongside the synthesized string background from Banman.
Although his name might not be widely known in jazz circles, Garcia certainly makes an impact with Dedicated To You, and let’s hope there’s more on the horizon soon.
Travels well with: TriTone Asylum- The Hideaway Sessions; The Matt Gordy Jazz Tonite Sextet- Be With Me