Land Of Enchantment
MMG, 2023
8/10
The guitarist and songwriter Todd Mosby explores the link between nature, culture and art here, where plenty of friends lend a hand for the 8 eclectic pieces.
The melodic and rhythmic “Place In The Sun” opens the listen with Mosby’s fluid guitar alongside Rhonda Smith’s warm bass and Vinnie Colaiuta’s playful drums, and “Moonrise Samba” follows with folk-rock nods that are complemented by Laura Vall’s wordless vocals and David Leach’s frisky percussion.
“A Distant Light” occupies the middle spot, and ends up in sublime intimacy via the eloquent guitar, stirring cello by Adrienne Woods and strong attention to mood, while “Georgia’s World” benefits much from Dapo Torimiro’s lively keys for the retro-spirit.
“Emerald Springs” and “By The Time I Get To Phoenix” exit the listen, where the former is an acoustic guitar fueled album highlight, and that latter welcomes Charlie Bisharat’s poetic violin and Timothy Bailey’s creative bass that help cultivate a soothing finish.
A listen that carries a global presence and plenty of stylish energy, Mosby and company create an absorbing affair that will certainly age very well.
Travels well with: Louis Stewart & Noel Kelehan- Some Other Blues; Timo Vollbrecht Fly Magic- Givers & Takers