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Jamie Ruben: Groove-O-Ly-O-Scene
ByOffering an all-original selection of music, the light grooves begin with "AQ Giraffe" and continue throughout the disc. Of the nine tracks presented, "Kwan-Teen" and "Introduction to Monsieur Slidey" serve as introductions, leaving seven full pieces. In sampling the meat of the album, there is a hint of a worldly sound which may be due in part to Ruben's seven years as a jazz performer in the Far East, as well as touring in the UK, Holland and Belgium.
On "Albino Bison," Ruben plays the guitar like a rock star, in front of William Sperandei's splendid trumpet lines. "Pennapa" comes across as an airy, organic number sporting a soft melody, while "Bangkok 504" reflects a darker themeperhaps in reference to his year-long stay in Thailand. "Lanta" possesses similar qualities in tone and texture, while still remaining light in structure. With a little help from keyboardist Dafydd Hughes and steady beats from drummer Ryan Granville-Martin, "Pai Crowd" surges forward as one of the album's defining pieces.
Demonstrating his chops, Ruben delivers the finale, "Monsieur Slidey," sliding his fingers up and down the scales with ease and grace. Definitely not a swinging affair, Groove-O-Ly-O-Scene marches to a different tune, a much lighter approach and a softer groove led by Jamie Ruben's simple but superb guitar voice.
Track Listing
AQ Giraffe; Albino Bison; Kwan-Teen; Pennapa; Bangkok; Lanta; Pai Crowd; Introducing Monsieur Sildey; Monsieur Sildey.
Personnel
Jamie Ruben
guitarJamie Ruben: guitar; William Sperandei: trumpet; Dafydd Hughes: keyboards; Steve Zsirai: bass; Ryan Granville-Martin: drums.
Album information
Title: Groove-O-Ly-O-Scene | Year Released: 2011 | Record Label: Self Produced
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