By Glenn Astarita

Belgian acoustic guitarist Gilbert Isbin enjoys performing as a solo artist or within duet and trio settings. A veteran of the European jazz scene and involvement in documentaries film or dance, Isbin illustrates his multifold approach on two recent works, one of which is titled, Solo Works as Isbin goes it alone on classical and “prepared” classical guitar. Here, Isbin displays a good degree of ingenuity finesse and masterful technique as he whips through 13 seemingly improvised pieces.

Isbin performs with a vengeance on such an assumedly delicate instrument. Whether performing lush harmonics or practically battering his acoustic guitar into submission, Isbin is not lacking ideas or a sense of purpose. On many tracks, Isbin explores an abundance of motifs and unorthodox approaches while at times extracting unusual or perhaps unimaginable sounds from his ax. Unlike free-improv guitar god Derek Bailey, Isbin carves out thematic passages which almost seem composed yet is prone to detune his guitar or hammer his strings with blazing speed. Essentially, Isbin scolds his instrument or perhaps implements many things, which are not meant to be! Energy and effect are key – as Isbin often discards the fundamentals in favor of dynamism coupled with nuance, poise and oddball voicings yet Isbin emits a sense of continuity along with his bold aggression and unusual permutations. It is safe to say Isbin stretches matters to the limits of perception and comprehension while twisting his classical guitar into knots as he fervently pursues strange sounds and at times, discordant themes. * * * œ

Isbin displays his melodic and somber side along with percussionist Geert Verbeke on Twins. Fans of guitarist Ralph Towner may also take a shining to this delightful recording featuring gorgeous sublime balladry and ethnocentric stylizations as in “Royal Tune” and “Amphora”. Geert Verbeke’s utilization of Himalayan bowls and prepared piano coupled with Isbin’s artful acoustic guitar work emits mystical qualities purveyed by a sense of uneasiness. Fascinating tonal contrasts underscore many of these pieces as in the trance-like “Secrets”. Isbin’s subtle phrasing and circular motion coupled with Verbeke’s enticing employment of gongs, bells and cymbals on “Open Day” present movement which is well-stated yet barely above a whisper. Twins is intricate, delicate, playful and dreamlike yet conveys a sense of elevation or higher being as if spirits took part in the process. * * * *

Besides all of his technical acumen, Isbin displays diverse traits and characteristics, which embody or suggest a complex artist with boundless energy who displays a cultivated approach and aesthetic spirit. Isbin is reportedly working on a project consisting of jazz inspired renderings of Nick Drake’s music. Now this we would like to hear!

Gilbert Isbin performs on various acoustic guitars.

For additional information why not visit Gilbert Isbin’s website.... http://users.pandora.be/gilbert.isbin

Distribution in the USA is handled by Wayside Music and Eurock and in Canada by Jazz.promo.com