CD Title: Passing Through
Year: 2006
Record Label: Esquire Music
Style: Soul / Funk Jazz
Musicians: E. Shawn Qaissaunee (guitar)
Review: From the very first moment that I listened to a CD entitled Passing
Through, I knew that jazz is one of America's greatest exports
and is just as universal. Listening to guitarist E.
Shawn Qaissaunee (kay-saw'-nee) a native of Kabul, Afghanistan, I was
immediately struck by the crisp fresh sound that reverberated from his music.
This being is third release, he is obviously a seasoned veteran when it comes to
the idea of lyrically displaying a sound that is uniquely qualified to be
different. With an approach that is etched in the annals of jazz/funk,
Passing Through goes beyond the confines of a single style; in fact,
Shawn touches upon a variety of influences, including contemporary jazz. With
that being said, one is immediately struck by the versatility and breadth of
talent Qaissaunee possesses.
As a composer, E. Shawn Qaissaunee is very creative in approach. Although his
self-described creative juices are seemingly on the cutting edge of funk,
Passing Through is an improvisational conduit for something better.
With a quartet that is just as eclectic as his sound, Shawn's sophisticated
writing is melodic and dynamic. The CD is full of upbeat rhythms and simple
grooves, as it projects a flavor that is energetic and fluid. Overall, E. Shawn
Qaissaunee's ability to transcend the confines of a single style of music speaks
volumes of his skills as an artist. Passing Through is just another
indication of things to come from this artist. This is a
voice that we can expect to hear more of in the days ahead.
Record Label Website: http://www.esqmusic.com
Reviewed by: Sheldon T. Nunn