Avi Rothbard: Twin Song (2006)

Karen Hogg

CD/DVD Reviewer since 2006

Recent articles (21 total)

Published: February 24, 2006

Twin Song, guitarist Avi Rothbard's second recording, is a funky, atmospheric exploration. Rothbard's group, which includes organist Jared Gold, drummer Joe Strasser and guest tenor saxophonist Wayne Escoffery (on three tracks), works as a tight unit, inviting the listener in on spirited musical conversations. The opening "Preach's Inches is a soulful, infectious groove that's hard not to dance along to; the subsequent up-tempo "Minor Impact really lets each musician burn. They slow things down with the ballad "Cheerleader. The title track is a swinging 6/8 workout.

Other highlights on the recording include "Five Corners, a moody 5/4 tune, and "The Password, a beautifully executed solo guitar piece. Rothbard's compositions are fully realized and clever, still retaining their emotional center. Strasser and Gold, who make a great rhythm section, are skilled in the art of listening. It is a joy to hear the interplay among the musicians. Overall, Twin Song is an excellent recording.

Track Listing: Preach's Inches; Minor Impact; Cheerleader; Twin Song; Triad; Five Corners; One and Nine; The Password; Just a Little Sip.

Personnel: Avi Rothbard: guitar: Jared Gold: bass; Joe Strasser: drums; Wayne Escoffery: saxophone.

Record Label: MidLantic Records
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream