Musicians: Joel Del Rosario (guitars, bass, keyboards), George Hunter (vocals)
Review: Imagine something that's tranquil and soothing, yet also contains some very cool vibes with a layer or two of spice tossed in the mix. This is what you get with the new CD from Joel Del Rosario aptly titled Calm In The Storm. Del Rosario ambitiously composed, arranged and produced all of the songs on this CD and plays guitars, bass and keyboards as well. That's a lot of hats to wear and they're all worn extremely well.
This CD features ten tracks all of which offer a delicious mix of Del Rosario’s classical training as well as his influences from such artists as Earth Wind & Fire, George Benson and Stan Getz. If we were talking apples here, there isn’t a bad one in the bunch.
On “One Way Street,” Del Rosario’s beautiful classical guitar licks contrasts and yet blends superbly with the funkier “Express.” And the fun and funky “Back In The Day,” showing Del Rosario’s influence with Earth Wind & Fire, is simply delightful as well.
“LJP (Love, Joy, Peace)” and “LJP Interlude” features the smooth vocals of George Hunter and along with Del Rosario’s sensual guitar create an air of harmony and tenderness. The title track, “Calm In The Storm” is an excellent example of Del Rosario’s mastery of the guitar and effectively shows us his spiritual side, which inspires him to make this beautiful music.
These songs together with the rest of the tracks on this CD all blend together seamlessly to produce some exceptional smooth jazz music. And with Del Rosario’s spiritual beliefs, Calm In The Storm is sure to sooth the soul, lift the spirit and inspire all who listen.
Tracks: One Way Street, Express, Back In The Day, LJP (Love, Joy, Peace), Her Favorite, 355 Ocean, Calm In The Storm, Padre Burgos, LJP Interlude, True Love Waits
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