Customer Reviews

Tempest

5 star:		(28)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is such delicious music it is hard to explain. It is so upbeat at first and then the music seems to go into a calmer piece. This CD creates images of sun soaked lands, of walking on warm beaches and of being on vacation in Mexico or Spain.

In a way it is a vacation for your mind. The guitar is seductive and will draw you into the music with abandon. It will grab hold of your heart. Each piece is more interesting than the next. In a way it is like a love story. The music makes you feel in love and happy. When you listen to one part of this CD you will think you are in Egypt! Then you will hear the sounds of the ocean waves and it so relaxing.

I think if you try it, you will be coming back for more. It is very addictive! You will love the whole CD.

~The Rebecca Review

Even after four years this album reaches into my soul and won't let go. I had never heard of Jesse Cook when I took my wife and some friends into an audiophile salon to introduce them to high quality home audio. I had told them to prepare to be blown away. When the owner started the system I was the one who was blown away, not by the quality of the system but by this young man's raw talent. I found myself instantly mesmerized by his music. Something that I have experienced only twice in my life. If you like nouveau-flamenco, classical guitar or latin music this is a must have. I find its passages alternately peaceful and stirring. It both relaxes and excites me. Give his music a try. You will not be disappointed.

Jesse Cook blends exotic Spanish music with elements of new age, world music and jazz. This 1995 release was his debut CD on the Narada label. Although his first it remains in some ways both his best and most characteristic, at least for Jesse as a flamenco guitarist. Jesse's exceptionally clean style is absolutely wonderful whether playing a slow, thoughtful piece like Soledad or blazingly quick like the title track.


As such, if you're just discovering Jesse this is a great place to start. So, a quick quiz to decide if this one is for you:

1. Do you like the instrumental acoustic guitar?
2. Do you like spanish/latin music, especially latin jazz?
3. Want to add some unusual, sophisticated, upbeat music to your collection?

Okay, answer 'yes' to any of those and I'll wager you'll like this music. More than one and you're love it for sure.

Well, how about if you've already got a CD or two by Jesse and like them but not this one? Well, what are you reading this for? :) The sooner you order it the sooner you'll be listening!

I played this while driving in the car with my 31/2 year old grandaughter, Cheyenne. She was sitting in the back seat, her head swaying gracefully and thoughtfully while taking in the beautiful melodies created by this amazing musician. After a few of the songs she asked, "Gwanny-deaux, who is dat?" I told her, and after another minute of being mesmerized she asked softly, "Can we go to his house?" I explained that he was far away and after still another minute of listening she asked, "Can we call him on the phone?" She so wanted to meet the man who could make these sounds that she loved. Another time, my 8 year old grandson, Christopher, while listening to the CD said to me, "I don't know why, but water just started getting in my eyes when I was listening to that song." Well, I'm in the process of buying both of these children the Tempest for their birthdays. Thanks for these special moments, Jesse. Do play on for us of all ages...and may the beauty that is created through you, bless you as it does me and my family...Jan

Jesse Cook's album was by far the best new age/instrumental album I've bought this year. His guitar playing is incredible and envigorating. Really makes you want to dance.

Highly recommended.

Only Jesse Cook could create a sound that calms the spirit and envokes celebration. From beginning to end, Cook bombards his audience with elastic plucks and complete movements. Then, just when you thought his music couldn't get any better, Cook is accompanied by some of the most influential percussionists around. These artists elevate Cook's guitar to a level untouchable by other flamenco guitarists. Tempest is not only a violent rainstorm but a ferocious hurricane exploding into the hearts of a diverse audience. This cd is not just for classical listerners. It destroys the barrier between classical and popular. "The music sings to you." Buy this cd now and follow Cook's career into the new millenium. Guaranteed entertainment.

This is one super-talented young artist! Jesse Cook has an unusual style, combining Spanish Flamenco with Middle Eastern. The band must keep a fire extinguisher close by Mr. Cook as he flashes up and down the fretboard, tracing fire on the strings of his guitar. I like to listen to Jesse Cook as I work in my pottery studio. The energy passes from the recording of Jesse's hands on the guitar, to my hands on the clay. I have bought all the currently avauilable albums Jesse has published.

I can't stop playing this CD. I play it while I give massages to my clients and they all have very good things to say about this CD. Jesse Cook is one of a kind.

This is an excellent induction into flamenco and Cook's guitar artistry. There's so much punch and pizzaz with strong melodies which is mixed with an air of serenity and abandon. I must have heard this fifty times in the last two months and still can't get tired of it.

People who do not even like this kind of music like Jesse Cook's music. If "jumpstart" does not make your toe tap and do a chair dance, then you have no pulse!