Jack Wilkins

Song for Micaela (CAP Records #978)

Here’s a terrific first outing for guitarist James Silberstein. Along with 4 originals written by James and eight well-known standards, this is a very entertaining and satisfying CD. The first tune, “Red Carpet,” has a distinct Jimmy Raney quality to it. Some nice chromatic 2-5 harmonies and the fabulous Randy Brecker, this is a grand opener. James gets a very warm and darkish sound here and throughout the set. The beautiful “So Many Stars” features the vocal of Carla Cook. This is the only tune she sings, but it’s a good one. The burning “Nica’s Dream” has Randy, Eric Alexander (sax), and James playing some intricate lines with ease. The boppish “Aquas” is reminiscent of the Lee Morgan groups with everyone soloing and the very stylish Bruce Barth on piano. Another James composition, “House Party,” is a 70’s type blues with a very nifty melody. I should think this is a real practice piece. James goes all out on “Love for Sale” with Tony Cimorosi and Vince Cherico on bass and drums. Talk about up-tempo! James really nails this. “How Deep is the Ocean” is given a bossa nova treatment and I hear some of James’s influences mostly Chuck Wayne and John McLaughlin. Two very different players but James somehow has incorporated them in his own playing. The title tune “Song For Micaela” is a lovely minor/major tune also done as a bossa. The set ends with a beautiful solo rendition of “Why Did I Choose You” which is a real favorite of mine. James and everyone play extraordinarily throughout the entire CD with emotion, technique, and taste. The arrangements are good and it’s mixed and ordered with much care. James is an artist with much to say and hopefully will get lots of attention from this CD."

Jack Wilkins, Guitarist, written for Jazz Improv Magazine, July, 2005