With a professional music career that has logged 35 years of work, composer/guitarist Greg Chako still hasn't achieved the mainstream recognition that he deserves. His latest album, A Place for Bass—Chamber Jazz Duets, continues to showcase his artistry and, in this project, his versatility as well.
After all, Chako leaves his guitar in its case in this continuously engaging and spirited effort. Instead, he and Mason Daugherty display their bass-playing skills. However, they're not competing with one another. A Place for Bass focuses on collaboration, allowing both top-drawer musicians to jam together, creating a warm atmosphere of mutual admiration.
A Place for Bass is fueled not just by the technical expertise of this instrumental duo but also by their chemistry with another. It's almost hypnotic how they lock into another's energy and moods. On the relatively mellow “Bass Up Front," Chako and Daugherty are soothing to listen to. They deliver a subdued, tasteful performance that nevertheless has the sparks of a concert. The sound is crisp and utterly compelling.
They also connect emotionally with the listener, producing a cinematic atmosphere that is hard to put down on headphones.
Chako and Daugherty explore various genres, too, and they equally excel with each stylistic shift. From the sly wordplay, “Bassa-Nova" is exactly what it suggests. Its dive into Brazilian music has the delicious spice and dynamic spirit to make it completely authentic.
“Bass-in' Street Blues," on the other hand, is soulful, captivating.
What Chako and Daugherty pull off here is an LP that never stops attracting your attention with its fresh ideas and sparkling personalities.
After all, Chako leaves his guitar in its case in this continuously engaging and spirited effort. Instead, he and Mason Daugherty display their bass-playing skills. However, they're not competing with one another. A Place for Bass focuses on collaboration, allowing both top-drawer musicians to jam together, creating a warm atmosphere of mutual admiration.
A Place for Bass is fueled not just by the technical expertise of this instrumental duo but also by their chemistry with another. It's almost hypnotic how they lock into another's energy and moods. On the relatively mellow “Bass Up Front," Chako and Daugherty are soothing to listen to. They deliver a subdued, tasteful performance that nevertheless has the sparks of a concert. The sound is crisp and utterly compelling.
They also connect emotionally with the listener, producing a cinematic atmosphere that is hard to put down on headphones.
Chako and Daugherty explore various genres, too, and they equally excel with each stylistic shift. From the sly wordplay, “Bassa-Nova" is exactly what it suggests. Its dive into Brazilian music has the delicious spice and dynamic spirit to make it completely authentic.
“Bass-in' Street Blues," on the other hand, is soulful, captivating.
What Chako and Daugherty pull off here is an LP that never stops attracting your attention with its fresh ideas and sparkling personalities.
