David Boswell: Bridge of Art

With a program of his own compositions, smooth jazz guitarist David Boswell creates a variety of moods on Bridge of Art that relax, breathe fresh air into our lungs, and inspire. His fluid guitar technique and the session's driving backbeats ensure that everything remains at ease. Percussion, acoustic bass and piano surround Boswell's guitar with plenty of cohesive action.

Through his emotional plea on "Take Me Away, the leader employs a synthesizer to interpret his feelings. The effect, however, merely puts clouds on the surface—Boswell's synth forms a plastic sphere around the natural landscape. His guitar explorations, invested with heartfelt expression, are better.

Electric bass pumps up several selections with a subtle fire that burns casually through forceful backbeats. Boswell's guitar traces each lyrical melody high and low, and his voice-like authority is persuasive. Bridge of Art drives up-tempo over terrain that swells with quiet excitement. Boswell and his quintet know that true expression seldom requires overt volume; subtlety and smooth textures give them plenty of convincing elements.

The fresh but subtle "Salute to Kindness is dedicated to the composer's father, the intensely celebratory "Beautiful Day to his mother. All kinds of familiar moods pervade Bridge of Art. However, the smooth variety of Boswell's music places an overall calming effect everywhere it reaches.