Nicolas Meier World Group: Peaceful

Nicolas Meier is a world class jazz guitarist and in his World Group band he has gathered equally impressive musicians with the likes of Kevin Glasgow (bass), Richard Jones (Violin) and Demi Garcia (percussion). Meier’s guitar arsenal includes nylon fretted and fretless string guitars, acoustic 12 string guitars and glissentar, an instrument whose sound is similar to an oud. As the name implies the band employs a variety of influences; Spanish, Middle Eastern and Turkish sounds seem to be the most prevalent.

On the album opening “Besiktas Café� the sounds, especially guitar and violin, certainly take on an exotic Turkish vibe. The acoustic guitar playing of Meier is off the charts good. His dazzling runs and pretty melodies are stamped all over this one. The violin also lends a nice touch and is quite dominant in the soundscape. With “Manzanita Samba� the guitar is light and airy with the groove digging into its Brazilian origins. The violin solo is a highlight. “Peaceful� is much like the song title suggests, very laid back with pretty guitar laced throughout this rather enchanting piece. More Turkish sounds gives “Caravan of Anatolia� a heavy Eastern flair where the glissentar really shines. The percussion, violin and bass solo are also noteworthy. All of these musicians are superb.

So there you have it. Anyone familiar with the guitarist will know what a fabulous player he is. Of course, one cannot ignore the rest of the quartet, indeed world class. World music and jazz certainly makes for a nice combination. Highly recommended.

Track Listing:
1. Besiktas Café (3:40)
2. Manzanita Samba (7:04)
3. Peaceful (7:39)
4. Caravan of Anatolia (5:09)
5. Water Lilies (5:37)
6. Princes’ Islands (6:01)
7. City of the 3 Rivers (7:17)
8. The Island (6:36)
9. Soho Square (6:47)

Added: March 20th 2020
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Artist's Official Site
Hits: 704
Language: english

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