Featured Artist: Herb Silverstein

Jazz CD cover CD Title: Beach Walker

Year: 2005

Record Label: Silvertunes Music Productions

Style: Contemporary Jazz

Musicians: Dr. Herb Silverstein (Piano), Richard Drexler (Acoustic Bass), Joel Spencer & Steve Moretti (Drums), Jack Wilkins (Flute),Special Guests The Lobster String Quartet.

Review:

In life, we sometimes take a walk down a different path leaving behind all that was dear…at the crossroads so to speak. Then for a select few, we end up going full circle, allowing a second chance as rare as that is. Dr. Herb Silverstein had the opportunity, grasped the moment and ventured back to that ivory path. The result, a very smooth piece of well-composed and heartfelt piano driven jazz labeled “Beach Walker.” This is Dr. Silverstein’s ninth project since his return.

Enjoy the music and experience, I did.

Accompanied by a somewhat behind-the-scenes cast of musicians, however truly gifted, each cut has a personality and strong performance attached. Bassist Richard Drexler has an astounding impact on Dr. Silverstein ‘s project. His bass, along with the sounds of Silverstein, unite in making this a successful jazz recording. No frills, gimmicks put aside, this is good strong arrangement and melodic composition.

It deserves mentioning that proceeds from the CD go to The Ear Research Foundation, which Dr. Silverstein has embraced through his work. That being said, one can understand that cause, along with passion, were the catalysts for this work.

On a few cuts is the very talented and refined Lobster String Quartet, which adds a new flavor in the mix. That along with the tones and chords bouncing off the strings of LaRue Nickelson completes a well-represented string set.

This is a firm and healthy piece of jazz with dynamic string methodology - a very suitable musical textbook of novel jazz. Take it for a spin if only for enjoyment purposes. There’s not a bad sound in the entire arrangement.

Karl Stober is a national freelance music journalist/interviewer. Any inquiries or requests should be directed via email to JazzTrenzz@bellsouth.net or contact his office at 802-380-6065.



Tracks: Beach Walker, Awesome Autumn, Nip of Time, Go Fourth, 9.11, While You Were Away, High Heeled Lady, Jack Remembered (The Firefly), French Wedding, Amund Joy Waltz, Bird Returns

Artist's Website: http://www.herbsilverstein.com

Reviewed by: Karl Stober

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