CHARACTERS

I'm afraid I cannot discuss this album in terms of "meribolant soul melodies" or such, but if you're looking for a peaceful and relaxed solo album from one of the top jazz guitarists, CHARACTERS might be just right for you.

Abercrombie recorded this album entirely on his own, using electric and acoustic guitars as well as some mandolin. On most tracks he uses overdubs. He embroiders neat little patterns on acoustic guitar, and then adds crystalline electric solos. He only uses the electric guitar in a traditional jazzy manner, i.e. without distortion, but plays so many notes that he comes across as a busy little hippy. Trance and lyricism are what counts. Roughness and sentimentality are out.

CHARACTERS bears resemblance in mood to Pat Metheny's NEW CHAUTAUQUA (another one-man performance) but, as ever, Abercrombie's music seems less accessible than Metheny's. It's more abstract, I guess, but if you enjoy great guitar playing, you'll love this for the rest of your life.