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Torben Waldorff: Wah-Wah
ByWaldorff expresses composure and lyricism in the vein of Kurt Rosenwinkel, one that's less concerned about blistering runs (of which he's capable) and more about melodic constructs and composition. This continues to be one of his traits; the sexy, suggestive tone of "You Here" leads to a soulful outro with frosty Fender Rhodes and scintillating drums. The absence of saxophonist Donny McCaslin, who performed on Waldorff's previous two releases, is missed only in the slightest, as pianist Gary Versace's joins the guitarist's longtime superlative rhythm section of bassist Matt Clohesy and drummer Jon Wilkan. The set remains magnetic.
The tunes possess story-like attributes present in the smooth opener "Circle and Up" or delivered via smoky organ grinds in the bossa-nova tinted "Poolside." In each track, the group weighs melodic phrasing with tension and release, through evolving song narratives. Yet there's always a sense of openness; music that can be enjoyed casually or mined deeper for its artistic qualities. That "cool" factor presents itself repeatedly, whether in the grinding hook of "Evac"'s closing or Clohesy's spicy electric bass line in "Fat#2," as Waldorff shreds notes.
Though Wah-Wah departs from the rural themed American Rock Beauty , the set closes with the beatific "Country and Fish," bringing to mind a peaceful country setting. It's a picturesque backdrop where Waldorff's soulful phrases are carried by Versace's supple organ touches on a languorous current. It's another fine release from a guitarist who merits wider recognition.
Track Listing
Circle and Up; You Here; Ginga; Fat#2; Poolside; Evac; Cutoff; Burtsong; Country and Fish.
Personnel
Torben Waldorff
guitar, electricTorben Waldorff: guitar; Gary Versace: piano, Fender Rhodes, organ; Matt Clohesy: bass; Jon Wikan: drums.
Album information
Title: Wah-Wah | Year Released: 2012 | Record Label: ArtistShare
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About Torben Waldorff
Instrument: Guitar, electric
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