Samo Salamon: Dolphyology: Complete Eric Dolphy For Solo Guitar

Multi-reed virtuoso Eric Dolphy was a brilliant composer and deserves better recognition as such. In 2011, saxophonist Silke Eberhard put together a wind quartet of fellow Berliners, Potsa Lotsa, for a two disc release of all of Dolphy's works. Ten years later Slovenian guitarist Samo Salamon has done the same with Dolphyology.

Salamon performs all of Dolphy's 28 compositions unaccompanied on acoustic guitar, with the exception of "Inner Flight I," which features Salamon on the mandolin. The unique sound of this lute descendant gives the piece an East Asian tinge. Meanwhile "Inner Flight II" has more of an Indian flavor. This is in delightful contrast with Dolphy's own recordings on solo flute of this two-part gem that had more of a Western Classical touch.

Therein lies the ingenuity of both artists. Dolphy wrote music that is multifaceted and allows for both improvisations on its themes as well as personal interpretations of it. Salamon brings to life these tracks with a singular twist that is reverential to the source material, as well as novel in its presentation. For instance, on the famous "Out To Lunch" Salamon slightly embellishes the melody and utilizes occasional silent pauses while maintaining the original's infectious angularity.

Meanwhile Salamon's take on "The Prophet" is as wistful and as mesmerizingly complex as Dolphy intended, yet the guitarist's resonant chords endow it with an elegant intimacy. Salamon also gives "Iron Man" its explorative edge and showcases the tune's complexity and flirtations with dissonance.

The lesser known "Strength with Unity" is a revelation. It's sinewy lines reflect a primal spirituality while its fiery refrains show a suave urbanity. Dolphy recorded it only once, at a live session with his quartet and brass ensemble. Comparing the two versions is intriguing as Salamon is able to reflect the piece's inner passion with his solo instrument.

Although Salamon does not extemporize much on this album, his intelligent arrangements and his superb interpretations make the release a one of a kind take on Dolphy's creativity and musicianship.

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