Stryker With Strings Goes To The Movies
Strikezone, 2025
9/10
Listen to Stryker With Strings Goes To The Movies
The always prolific Dave Stryker returns with Xavier Davis, Jeremy Allen, McClenty Hunter and an orchestra for these well known soundtrack tunes that sound fantastic in his vision.
“In Your Eyes” opens with soulful brass and a violin solo thanks to Sara Caswell, as Stryker’s dreamy guitar guides the Pete Gabriel classic, and “Cinema Paradiso (Main Theme)” follows with Davis’ intimate keys amid a romantic spirit that tugs on the heartstrings.
Further along, “Taxi Driver (Main Theme)” allows for Greg Ward’s alto sax to shine alongside Hunter’s soft drums, while “Flirtibird” showcases Mark Buselli’s flugelhorn skills for the rich album highlight.
Deeper yet, Jim Pugh’s strategic trombone enters the elegant strings of “Moonglow”, and “Edelweiss” exits with Allen’s frisky bass and Stryker’s meticulous guitar via the melodic and timeless finish.
Most of us have heard these songs before, but they’ve never sounded like this, and they certainly do justice to the originals thanks to Stryker’s distinct skillset.
Travels well with: Dave Stryker Trio w/Bob Mintzer- Groove Street; Dave Stryker- Prime