Andrew Cheshire: Faces

Chances are you probably haven’t heard of guitarist Andrew Cheshire. But as with the majority of jazz musicians, popularity is not synonymous with talent. Mr. Cheshire is a self-taught and self produced artist, and his latest release, simply titled Faces, is a collection of selected works from 1991 to 2001.

This is Cheshire’s seventh recording on his own recording label, Joule Records. The new release gives a glimpse into the skills in his jazz repertoire. The configurations range from ensemble to duo, with styles ranging from hard bop to free jazz. With numerous guitar personas to choose from, there’s much to observe here. One face reveals rapid-fire solo runs on the title selection “Faces,” while another shows us acoustic wonders on the eclectic composition “Dream.” Cheshire is equally poised with his own compositions, such as “Line of Sight,” or at uniquely re-illustrating classics such as Joe Henderson’s “Recorda Me.”

With a sound that is occasionally reminiscent of other higher profile guitarists, Cheshire has crafted his skills into a style that should make any guitar aficionado take notice. Equally effective on acoustic and electric guitar, he shines on the Lewis and Klenner classic “Just Friends.” The recording concludes with the beautiful “Autumn Leaves,” which features Cheshire’s great rhythm work supporting a tenor saxophone melody. Faces also features jazz luminaries such as Ron McClure, Lonnie Plaxico, and Marvin “Smitty” Smith. Each performance showcases the musicians around the creative center of a true jazz guitarist. Highly recommended.

For sound samples and information, visit Andrew Cheshire on the web.