ALBUM REVIEW: "Energies of Change"

By Ron Netsky

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David Gilmore

"Energies of Change"

Evolutionary Music

davidgilmore.net

From the first non-traditional chords on David Gilmore's "Energies of Change," it's clear that this is not your run-of-the-mill jazz guitar album. Although it's only his third CD as a leader, Gilmore has worked his distinctive magic in a variety of settings. Since studying with Joe Lovano, he's recorded with jazz greats like Wayne Shorter, Dave Douglas, and Don Byron and crossed over into the pop world with Me'shell N'Degeocello, Melissa Etheridge, and Mavis Staples. His collaborators here make up a "Who's Who" of contemporary masters: Marcus Strickland on sax and bass clarinet; Luis Perdomo, piano; Ben Williams, bass; Antonio Sanchez, drums; and Kofo Wanda, talking drum.

The fourth tune, on an album full of originals, is "The Seeker," and Gilmore is clearly that. With other titles like "Dance of Duality," "Awakening," and Revelations," Gilmore seems to be exploring the mysteries of life through his music. And, as strange as it may seem, his wonderfully quirky compositions conjure up that quest. When a phenomenal guitarist like Gilmore is surrounded by exceptional players, the interactions are as inventive as they are spontaneous. And, not surprisingly, great solos abound.