Search - Steve Greenbaum :: Taking a Turn

Steve Greenbaum, a newcomer to the jazz scene, has quickly made his mark with the release of his debut CD, 'Taking a Turn'. What started out as a solo acoustic guitar project inspired by Pat Metheny and the ECM Records sound, evolved into one of the most interesting modern jazz releases of the year. The music is beautiful acoustic jazz. Steve?s compositions are tasteful, warm and inviting and are characterized by their strong imagery and delicate passion. His unorthodox acoustic guitar playing is at the heart of these songs. Unrushed tempos and subtle melodies leave ample space for inspired improvisation by his jazz sidemen on trumpet, sax, piano, and harmonica. Greenbaum?s musical influences are evident throughout the disk. The album's liner notes salute the Grammy Award winning album, 'Beyond the Missouri Sky', by Pat Metheny and Charlie Haden. The influence of that recording is most evident on November Unfolding, which is a poignant acoustic guitar piece with an acoustic bass accompaniment. Outbound blends jazz and a western tinged motif to provide a Frisell/Haden-like, Americana feel to the song. Reportedly, seeing Toots Thielman in concert during the project sparked the use of a harmonica on this song. Tryst, one of the most upbeat and melodic tracks on the disk highlights the musicianship of the group and provides a nice contrast to the slower tracks. Other highpoints include the sweet electric guitar tone on The Road Calls and the soulful trumpet on the opening track, Liquid Blue.