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review by Bill Binkelman Peter Janson has become one of the more consummate acoustic guitarists recording instrumental music in today's world. His compositions are always brimming with grace, charm, and sincerity. From a technical standpoint, he accomplishes this with simplicity and economy yet still displays undeniable talent. His latest collection of songs, Firelight Moonlight, clearly illustrates his remarkable artistic vision and deep sense of commitment to his muse. Whether the opening uptempo "Dancing Beneath the Stars," which has a carefree feel to it with its subdued but still lively refrain, or the very next piece, "Under a Shady Tree," the gentility of which speaks of solitude, reflection, and fond remembrance, Janson is an artist who rewards the listener with instantly accessible acoustic guitar music. He never descends into pop formulaic safety, nor does he fill his songs with pointless noodling that screams "Look at how good a guitar player I am." Instead, the ten selections here reveal an artist who allows his soul and spirit to be visible through the music's notes, chords, melodies and tempos. He offers us a rare gift, indeed - a glimpse into the human condition at its most real. Few other guitarists are capable of this (Ken Bonfield is one who comes to mind). From the playful cover version of Pierre Bensusan's "Wu Wei" to the soft jazzy ballad "Moonlight" to the Emily Dickinson-inspired "Perched in the Soul" (an ideal "new age music" guitar instrumental cast in the mold of Will Ackerman's best work), to the closing somberness of "A Clear Stillness," Janson never hits a false note. One hesitates to use the word "professional" when addressing such evocative and artistic work, but besides having the soul of a poet and abundant talent, Janson is also a musician who values the cold mechanical side of things. The CD is only 44 minutes long, which in my opinion, is ideal (there are way too many artists who fill the need to pack a CD as if it were a suitcase intended for a two-week trip) and the engineering is uncluttered with artificial gimmickry. Graphics are understated yet fit the music's inherent beauty; the liner notes detail each composition's origin and inspiration and the notes' presentation itself is spot on. In short, every aspect of the album is flawless. Peter Janson is now "three out of three" (his previous albums are 2001's Sometimes From Here and 1999's Across The Bridge). Firelight Moonlight belongs in every acoustic guitar lovers collection - you will not be disappointed. My highest recommendation. |
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