Customer Reviews

Around (Again)

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I bought "Around (Again)" and Drew's initial CD "This Journey" after sampling both CD's online. "Around (Again)" is by far the better effort. Drew is a fine guitarist, but he seemed to be trying too hard on "The Journey." The tracks are fast, furious, too loud, and overcrowded with musical effects. He wrote all of the songs on that CD, and recorded and mixed the album, too. I think he needed somebody looking him over his shoulder helping him through the process. I was disappointed in that CD, but very impressed by "Around (Again)". Instead of the total of just three musicians playing multiple instruments on "The Journey", this recording includes individual musicians playing drums, bass, keyboards, saxophone, and of course Drew on guitar. The tracks seemed to feature a more mature interplay between the instruments. They had a more mellow smooth jazz guitar groove. "Bounce" and "Around (Again)" are toe tappers and great to drive to. "Around" is somewhat reminiscent of Craig Chaquico's style, "Going Coastal", "Astro" and "Island Blue" remind me a little of Acoustic Alchemy. Dave Krug's saxophone on "Road Trip" (and several other cuts) remind me of Euge Groove. This is a compliment! My only real criticism is that, just like many of smooth jazz artists, Drew somehow felt the need to include a couple of tracks with vocals. "Only 4 U" and "Plus 12" just felt out of place to me. All in all, though, I thought this was a good recording. I'm glad I bought it and am looking forward to seeing what kind of music Drew comes up with in the future.

This is my first experience listening to Drew but I am really impressed with his refreshing music. The title cut Around(Again)is great and the cd is filled with enjoyable and relaxing music. I certainly hope Drew is around for a long time!

Allow me to introduce you to the next big star of Smooth Jazz... Drew Davidsen, the multi-talented composer/guitarist whose impressive resume includes accolades from urban jazz to gospel, as well as being listed as one of the "Ten Hottest New Guitarists" in Guitar Player Magazine's reader's poll. AROUND (AGAIN) is high-caliber music, and puts Mr. Davidsen squarely in the company of talent like George Benson, Norman Brown, Ken Navarro, and Tim Bowman. "Astro," the first radio single (written for his father, who pioneered satellite technology for NASA), leads the way, setting the pace for ten compelling and brilliantly performed songs on this, his second solo release. Drew's high-profile guests on the date include bassist Gerald Veasley, sax man Dave Krug, and keyboardist Jay Rowe. Expect AROUND (AGAIN) to be around radio for a long time to come, since this CD is loaded with potential hits. Seriously good stuff from Drew Davidsen (again)! ~SCOTT O'BRIEN