Without You
Estile, 2019
8/10
A violin enthusiast from Dublin, Gregory Harrington now resides in New York City and has kept himself busy playing well received pop, rock and jazz covers all over the world. Without You, dedicated to his late father, brings us 11 renditions of tunes from some legendary songwriters- both past and present- and Harrington reinvents them all with his keen attention to ambiance.
“Hallelujah” starts the album sweet and tender with a gorgeous rendition of the Cohen classic, and “Autumn Leaves” follows with a waltz spirit as light keys and brushed percussion dance around Harrington’s violin.
Further along, “Emmanuel” moves with an emotive spirit, while “Summertime” finds itself in a playful mood of dynamic interaction between the instruments. “It Never Entered My Mind”, the highlight from the first half, brings a cinematic spirit to the affair with meticulous musicianship.
The back half of the listen has some great selections including a fantastic version of “With Or Without You”, the sublime grace of “Oblivion” and the multifaceted “Caruso”, that unfolds with tense beauty. The album ends on “When I Fall In Love”, which punctuates the highly accomplished instrumentation that exists on the album.
This 4th record from Harrington recruits Simon Mulligan on keys, Matt Scarano behind the drum kit, Leon Boykins handling bass, Eleanor Norton on cello and Ric Molina on guitar, and together the ensemble pay much attention to every detail on this instantly enjoyable listen of classic songs
Travels well with: Lindsey Stirling- Shatter Me; Andrea Bocelli- Amore