Dave Isaacs is a jazz guitarist. I'm not sure he would like that title, but that is what he is. His second solo CD Flying, is an improvisational 3 piece soft jazz exploration. Isaacs is not flash, is not speed, but one amazing songwriter. When I first got this CD I was afraid it would be either a self-absorbed attempt at showing "how good he was" or a complete Metheny rip off.
Neither was true. This is a unique CD by someone that understands that the song is the point. Each song is fresh and unique. Isaacs does a good job of improvising without losing a sense of where the song started and where it is going. The liner notes state that many of the recordings were first takes. The tightness of the CD makes this hard to fathom, but the unique song meanderings make it believable.
A mention of Bob Stander (bass) and Steve Holley (drums) is warranted. This rhythm section has that tight feel that is often missing on this sort of CD. On "Front Porch Swing" and "Eighth Avenue" expecially, you just feel like these guys are linked by a common mood.
There are many different styles; swing, tango, rock, smooth jazz, to name a few, which run through this CD. But I never got the impression that the band (or Isaacs) said, "let's do a swing number now". Instead it feels like his guitar ramblings just naturally led to a style that the rhythm section picked up.
If you like your jazz with heart, then this is a CD for you. Flying is softer and mellower than many guitar based CDs reviewed on SOT, but it has the soul to make it keep your entire attention. This is an excellent effort by Mr. Isaacs.
Track Listing
For True (5:35)
Front Porch Swing (4:09)
Eighth Avenue (5:08)
Sunrise (5:02)
La Mosca (5:09)
Shadows Waltz (5:25)
Waterfall (4:52)
The Lonesome Gunslinger Saves The Day (4:56)
Winter's Lullaby (2:16)
Xango (7:59 )
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