Greg Diamond: Musings & Origins

Jazz guitarist Greg Diamond unveils his fourth album as leader, and his first solo recording, featuring thirteen original compositions specifically designed for the acoustic guitar. Musings & Origins captures an accomplished composer on a solo adventure performing original music created from 2002 to 2016. Preferring the acoustic guitar to other string instruments, Diamond's finger play and technique—well demonstrated here—provide ample testament to his skills as a musician and his mastery of his chosen instrument.

Documenting his musical journey on the acoustic guitar, this vignette begins with the brief but sensuous "El Pozo" (the Well), leading to the very mellow and humble "Laia," eclipsed by the harmonically gorgeous "Delicate Contents," all of which are light, sophisticated and wonderful musical moments.

The music contained herein is cerebral and relaxing, meant to reach the soul and tug at the heart. With the exception of some hard riffs on "Waltz Americana," there is no hot, fiery or swinging material found here; this is music designed for the lighter side of the jazz spectrum as tunes like "Song for Jerry," "Last Word," and "Prelude: Yvette" will attest to.

Delivering a beautiful landscape of music, voiced through a wide range of genres—touching on Pan Latin American, classical and American/folk styles—makes the acoustic session of Musings & Origins a delightful musical encounter memorable in many ways. Splendidly done, Mr. Diamond.