Keith Fiala: New Beginnings

New Beginnings from trumpeter, composer and producer Keith Fiala offers up ten varied tracks of exciting, originally-composed and superbly-performed jazz. It delivers a vibrant mix of engaging melodies and intelligent hard bop jazz improvisation with platforms both in and beyond the smooth jazz vein.

The moderately-tempoed "Let Go" opens melodically with a memorable descending melodic line. Fiala spins a series of cascading ribbons from his bright horn and an energetic and neatly-mixed guitar solo from Marc Lionetti adds over the cooking rhythm bed. "Hollywood and Vine" is a chaotic up-funky platform with Michael Jackson-esque overtones, lots of layered "urban action," and a heated Fiala solo. "Cityscape" is a neat funk groove which shouts. It is a cooker, reminiscent of Herb Alpert's most noteworthy efforts in his "Rise" era.

Fiala's playing and compositional skills shine throughout the session. He has a knack for the memorable and approachable. His playing is superb, demonstrating an engaging sound and improv fluency. He possesses both mastery and gymnastic ability. The production qualities here are excellent.

"Flow" is a bossa track with a melodic line which winds, swirls and surprises. The lushness of the flugelhorn is a perfect texture for the somewhat cinematic track. Over a clap track and layered strings Fiala's optimistic melody sings forth on "She's So Sweet." It's an expansive statement including an echoed sitar solo by Ken Berry. Arguably, it is the most intriguing track on the date. Latinesque acoustic guitar opens the door for Fiala's flugelhorn on the lush romantic melody of "Lorena." Fiala, who spent years as Maestro Arturo Sandoval's assistant, demonstrates that influence here. Fiala's mellowness and lyricism make this a standout track. The aforementioned Sandoval guests on synthesizer on the lovely "MB's Groove," a slower, lushly textured track. "Beyond Infinity," a slow groover, starts with a spooky abyss-deep bass before the engaging melody dances above. "Wit's End" lives up to its name with Hollywood-style funk horn backing a cinematic line laid down by Fiala. With a tasty Ken Berry guitar solo, the track could easily be interpreted as one for an 007 or similar film.

Varied, layered, exceptionally well-produced and performed, New Beginnings is a superb launch album from a supremely talented artist.