he holidays may be over, but there's still one more present to open and it's from master guitarist Jon Dalton. At a time when the Smooth Jazz industry has been going through changeswith labels cutting back on new signings or switching musical directions, Dalton has persevered. Not only has he composed and performed all original songs, he has done so with his own finances and put his money where his mouth is. His latest CD, The Gift, has been released on his own label, Dit-Da Communications, and is a product of good old-fashioned tenacity and talent. Produced with John O'Hara, former musical director of the historic Old Vic Theater in the UK, Dalton's CD, The Gift, is a treasure that can be enjoyed over and over again!
Dalton's opening number, Champosium, is an exciting way to begin this record. With an urban jazz vibe it will appeal to the young (and not-so young) discerning listener. He then follows brilliantly with the title track, The Gift. First released on the compilation disc, This is Smooth Jazz The Box Set, this beautiful song has a soothing melody that will stay with you long after it is done. Dalton then visits Napoli, and he picks the mood perfectly on his guitar! I can't help thinking of my vacation in this romantic city along the Mediterranean. Take a few moments to soak it up!
You Can't Do That! Okay, well maybe you can! Dalton gets some attitude on the next track combining chords as well as some great jazz improvisation on his guitar. Master of Complications then lends a decidedly mysterious mood to the disc. John Barton brings a sultry tenor sax to this tune, and I'm lovin' the mood of this song!
Other notable tunes include the upbeat and happy, One Level Up! Dalton interprets and communicates through his guitar in a masterful yet effortless way. His phrasing is incredible and the end result is one of pure satisfaction for the listener. The next song, Westory, (for the Boss Guitar!) combines a hip feeling with intriguing sound effects to make a truly fun experience. He then finishes with the poignant song, A Gift Returned.
Jon Dalton has often been compared to Wes Montgomery, Pat Metheny and Kenny Burrell, but he also brings his own voiceto this record. Performing on acoustic, electric and MIDI guitars, he combines traditional and contemporary jazz with R&B in a modern way. Many musical layers will be revealed, and his sound will appeal to both jazz lovers and those just discovering this wonderful art form. Jon Dalton's record, The Gift, truly is a gift from the heart! It is a must-have CD!
he holidays may be over, but there's still one more present to open and it's from master guitarist Jon Dalton. At a time when the Smooth Jazz industry has been going through changeswith labels cutting back on new signings or switching musical directions, Dalton has persevered. Not only has he composed and performed all original songs, he has done so with his own finances and put his money where his mouth is. His latest CD, The Gift, has been released on his own label, Dit-Da Communications, and is a product of good old-fashioned tenacity and talent. Produced with John O'Hara, former musical director of the historic Old Vic Theater in the UK, Dalton's CD, The Gift, is a treasure that can be enjoyed over and over again! 