Ken Silverman: Eclectic Vibes

Guitarist Ken Silverman, in addition to being a virtuoso, is an innovative composer and improviser. On his five releases as a leader Silverman has demonstrated a delightfully unique ability to fuse various musical traditions into a single unit. His sixth, Eclectic Vibes, lives up to its name and, like his previous work, is uncategorizable. The ten relatively short, originals range from film music to the avant-garde. The album remains cohesive in its unorthodoxy.

Joining Silverman on this synth-heavy outing are his longtime partners, bassist Sam McPherson and drummer Andy O'Neill, who, in addition to providing superb rhythmic support, showcase their own distinct "voices." On the rock-influenced "Speciba," for instance, O'Neill's martial beats drive the tune with exactitude. McPherson takes a lyrical and agile solo at the midpoint. Silverman plays languid resonant notes on his guitar that coalesce into a captivating melody.

The title track has a laid back Caribbean vibe with the guitar synth sounding more like a vibraphone or a steel pan. The three musicians engage in an exchange of hypnotic refrains and then Silverman embellishes the piece with amplified wailing phrases. The overall ambience remains relaxed with just an element of tension as Silverman starts flirting with dissonance. McPherson elegantly ushers in the concluding head.

Hawaian influences permeate the opening of the mellifluous "A1." McPherson and Silverman duet with panache adding a fiery edge. O'Neill lays down a polyrhythmic cadence as Silverman's guitar lets loose free flowing lines that mesmerize as they create a definitely jazzy performance. Then, seamlessly, the trio returns to the main theme.

Eclectic Vibes may sound different at first listen from Silverman's previous discography. It is, however, a natural progression of his creativity. It may be his most accessible work yet and it is not at the cost of artistic integrity. Indeed Silverman and his trio maintain the same level of superb musicianship as they have always done. In sum it is a singular expression of versatility and restless inventiveness.