Keith Andrew Review of "Contemplation" @ iTunes By: Beth Lewis hat first struck me about Keith Andrew's latest CD, CONTEMPLATION, was the vitality and vigor to the music. Every song has personality and a unique character all its own. Originally from Baltimore, Keith first picked up the guitar at 10 years old. His musical passion was fueled by exposure to the fertile and abundant San Francisco music scene when he moved there with his family as a teenager. Heading to Los Angeles to further this ardor he had the opportunity to study guitar with such masters as Robben Ford, Joe Pass, Buzz Fieten, Scott Henderson and Joe Diorio. After college (where he earned several awards from the National Association of Jazz Educators for outstanding musicianship), he attended the Guitar Institute of Technology where he eventually became a staff instructor. Additionally, Keith joined forces with keyboardist/composer Morris Beeks to form the Jazz/R&B band Himalaya. Now, back in San Francisco, his music has grown and developed with him. Keith Andrew draws from the diverse Bay Area culture to incorporate world music flavors into his style of jazz for a musical voice that is imaginative and varied, but highly accessible. The album's lead track, "Today's The Day" is delightfully invigorating, catching and holding the listener's attention from the first note. "Cool Breeze," the recordings one vocal is evocative and captivating; Keith melds his guitar work seamlessly with John Mize's haunting vocals. If you're looking for staid and boring, move on, if instead you want music that will kindle your senses, CONTEMPLATION is for you. © Beth Lewis / SmoothJazz.com Today's The Day Contemplation Tech Talk Cool Breeze Tequila First Kiss Mr. Chickie SF Cabbie Boyo Poyo Meathead