Daniel Walzer - Stand Up
Jazz, World, Classical
Indiana, United States
Overall Impression: Every now and again, you come across a piece of music that transcends your standard run-of-the-mill genre classifications, resulting in a listening experience that is wholly unique and remarkably inventive, "Stand Up" is one of those very songs. "Stand Up" is the bombastic first single from Daniel Walzer's new album, "Essence Of Now", and is nothing short of mind-blowing. Combining outstanding performances with an abundance of complex harmonic and rhythmic ideas, and executed in a marvelously quirky and flamboyant fashion, this is a brilliantly unique piece of instrumental songwriting that interweaves a diverse range of styles together to form a jazz fusion monster of a track. Great stuff!
Strongest Point(s): Where to begin? Melodically, there is a great deal to sink one's teeth into, ideas bounce off one another with both stylish flair and the utmost precision, resulting in a thematically captivating palette of themes that weave in and out of one another seamlessly, and this wouldn't be as effective as it is if it wasn't for the virtuosic performances that form the backbone of the track, from the dazzling keyboard and percussion flourishes to the intricate and finger twisting bass work, every performer really brings their chops to the table, and it culminates in an outstanding display of technical prowess and musical dexterity. There are two very distinct sections to this track, and they work brilliantly, the song takes a more understated turn at 1:55, you could even say a somewhat somber turn, and this contrast works wonders, it gives the piece diverse shades of tonal and textural color, and nicely mixes up the arrangement, helping to keep the listener firmly on their toes. In terms of recording quality and the overall mix, this is a solid production, all elements of the track are crystal clear and space has been used to great effect in order to create a rich soundscape that is both absorbing and highly engaging. This was a thoroughly invigorating listen, and I look forward to hearing more from Daniel Walzer's unique style in the very near future.
Target Audience Appeal: Fans of jazz fusion will certainly appreciate "Stand Up", but I think it's safe to say there is a little something for everyone here, elements of rock, prog, EDM, and classical styles are brilliantly fused together, culminating in a highly fresh sounding instrumental.
Artist target suggestions: Pat Metheny, Chick Corea, Jaco Pastorius, Frank Zappa, Aaron Parks, Robert Glasper, Snarky Puppy, Alfa Mist, Hank Levy, FORQ, The Funky Knuckles, Benny Greb, Victor Wooten, John Scofield
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About the Reviewer:
Andre Avanessian is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar, as well as teaching it, helping students both learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and how to become proficient in home recording.