Peter Lewis - The Still Small Voice
World, Contemporary, Smooth
Maryland, United States
Overall Impression: Having reviewed a prior Peter Lewis's tune already, the equally enticing smooth jazz fusion piece "Just As Sure", I looked forward to hearing what Peter had cooked up next, and I'm glad to say that all the elements I had found so enduring in that first track have not only been carried over but further developed and stylishly enhanced. Boasting some truly scintillating instrumental interplay and performances that feel both organic and mature in their approach, "The Still Small Voice" is a sleek and classy piece of instrumental writing that offers listeners the unmistakable snazzy sounds of the jazz flute, plenty of groove-rich walking bass lines, tasteful guitar work, and one increasingly dapper melody after the other, what more could you possibly want in a smooth Jazz tune?
Strongest Point(s): As with any Peter Lewis tune, the performances are what help to bring the writing vividly to life, and as with any instrumental piece for that matter, it's the synergy between all of the arrangement's various moving parts that ensure listeners are kept firmly transfixed on the music and the various harmonic, rhythmic, and melodic explorations it navigates. The art of effective melody writing lies within its almost conversational qualities, question and answer is such a fundamental concept when dealing with melodic dialogue that any instrumental should be able to create a strong dynamic between the various melodic and harmonic elements, Peter Lewis knows this and that's why "The Still Small Voice" sounds as organic a musical conversation as you could hope for. Whether it'd be the superb counterpoint that's achieved, especially between the flute and chordal lead guitar playing, or the way the bouncy walking bass lines feed off the utterly groove-drenched syncopated piano progressions, there's always a strong feeling of harmonic and melodic momentum driving the music, making for a listening experience that you feel compelled to jam along with, an accomplishment certainly worth applauding.
Target Audience Appeal: "The Still Small Voice" is a super stylish jazz fusion piece and lovers of the genre will find it to be a solid listening experience.
Artist target suggestions: Shabaka, Ruby Rushton, Tenderlonious, Chick Corea, Ashley Henry, Web Web, Joe McBride, Greg Adams, Bob Baldwin, Doc Powell, Marion Meadows, George Howard
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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 learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and become proficient in home recording.