Askold Buk: Askold Buk

With a clear, forceful guitar sound and crisp articulation, Buk lays down an enjoyable session drawn from a lifetime of paying attention to the kinds of music that have been recognized as popular. His "Wondering," a waltz that changes rhythm several times, captures your imagination with its air of mystery. An open, freewheeling trumpet solo with echo, followed by Buk’s fiery blues-laced electric guitar blast, jar the listener’s emotions. The leader follows that up with "A.F.B.," a New Orleans shuffle that features Greg Witchel’s blues harp. Buk adds a country & western flavor, while pianist Charlie Giordano pounds out a barrelhouse stomp that everyone can appreciate. The program finishes with Buk’s ballad "Downtime," which represents most of the artist’s eponymous session. With memorable pop/rock melodies, a driving back beat, and enjoyable "feel good" music, Askold Buk’s latest project smokes.