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review by Bill Binkelman Playing an assortment of guitars (assorted acoustic models, but also an electric classical, as well as a fretless bass and stand-up) as well as some sparse keyboards, Johann Helton demonstrates a friendly, breezy and immediately likable composing style and ample artistry and technique in conveying a variety of moods on Songs Without Words. The eleven tracks on the CD range from the sprightly and good-natured folksy opener, "Going Home," to the world fusion sultriness of "Moroccan Roll" (on which Heldon is assisted by drummer Lawson Hill), to the back-alley slyly-winking mysterious "Dangerous Considerations" (one of my favorites on the CD and another cut where Hill adds some tasty drum work), to the aptly titled "Quiet Room, Gentle Rain," a solo acoustic guitar number and one of the softer and more evocative pieces on this fine recording. Whether he is playing solo and unadorned or multi-tracking a number of different guitars and/or basses, Helton has excellent taste in arrangements as well as a sure hand in engineering (the mix and mastering was by Don Cunningham and his skills are also distinctly evident). If (even after reading the assorted track descriptions above) you need more evidence for dispelling the notion that Songs Without Words is your standard homogenous new age guitar record, give a listen to "There's a Reason," on which Heldon cuts loose with some fiery jazz licks. "Nocturne (song for my father)" matches a slinky lead acoustic line with funky upright bass, suggestive of a private eye skulking down neon-light tinted streets (another standout cut on the album). "All That (and a bag of chips)" has an easy-chair-put-your-feet-up relaxed feel to it, somewhere between low key new age music and smooth jazz, while the closing track, "Love the Day" ends the album on an upbeat note, featuring rhythm acoustic guitar and fretless bass in a cheery but relaxed ode to good times. While the CD's presentation is modest (black and white photographs gracing the cardboard digipack), the inside photo (of, I imagine, Johann as a child of about 6) is indicative of the humanity and warmth of the music contained on the disc itself. This is one of those special contemporary instrumental albums that I will never tire of, owing to the artist's skill and virtuosity and the variety of the compositions. Songs Without Words is an excellent release and I recommend it heartily to acoustic guitar fans without reservation. |
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