APOSTOLIS ANTHIMOS

Superficial and rather average Fusion.

Firstly, the previous review by Special Collaborator "snobb" is absolutely spot on and I could only second his accurate observations. So, there is little point of repeating it here. Instead, I'd just like to add a few more words.

In his band SBB, Apostolis had exhibited an individual and rather unique approach to the electric guitar. A one of a kind, unimitable, constantly evolving style that provided the listener with great admiration and satisfaction.

At times his approach revealed a nod of respect towards John McLaughlin, electric Miles so it's hardly surprising that his first solo album is Jazz, or more like Fusion oriented. Modestly ambitious and sadly, missing the mark. Accompanied by excellent Jazz musicians it's a team effort and the end result is that no-one really stands out, a lot of talent remains concealed.

The music itself is pleasant enough, but great it isn't. Rather mediocre and even Apostolis is held back, more in a conformist style than his innovative manner. His focus on playing drums and keyboards as well had a detrimental effect on his guitar.

It's not a bad album, but by comparison it's not a strong one, either. Hardly essential.

Second time lucky? - Er... if only marginally.

Second solo album by Apostolis who was funding member (and perhaps second in charge) of the legendary Polish trio SBB - and for 40 years as we speak! During his tenure there he has invented a unique and often sensational approach to the electric guitar, whilst also paying the odd nod to the likes of John McLaughlin, Miles Davis and even Pat Metheny.

So why go solo? Simply, SBB wasn't the right vehicle to further incorporate his Jazz leanings. His first solo effort embracing Fusion in 1994 was a mini-disaster. Completely forgettable noodlings, lustless delivery. His trademark approach to the guitar was barely there, perhaps giving way to his newfound interest in keyboards and drums - both of which he is a lot less than talented, or skilled in.

This album released 12 years later appears to be a somewhat more mature approach - in Fusion again. His guitar is more out in front, churning out some credible notes in a familiar Jazz fashion.

So, why does it still fail to impress? Simply, in the process of trying to emulate his influences, he has forgone his own, very special talents. Nevertheless, there are some pleasant moments, but altogether this release is not something to write home about. Pretty ordinary by Jazz standards, something you'd expect to hear at a local Jazz club, where you go for a drink and music is a lesser priority.

It qualifies for a solid 3, which is one above it's predecessor, but that still leaves it in the mediocre territory.

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APOSTOLIS ANTHIMOS is Polish/Greek musician well known as S.B.B. guitarist (playing in every band's incarnation till now). In his early years he played as support musician to great Polish singer and musician Czeslaw Niemen.

This album is guitarist's solo debut, recorded with well respected American jazz, fusion and blues musicians. Differently from his work with Niemen or S.B.B., music there is electric jazz and jazz fusion. Musicians, participated on this recording, are mostly Pat Metheny Group associates (Paul Wertico, Jim Beard, Matt Garrison, Gil Goldstein), bluesman Sugar Blue added his harmonica in one song as well.

Music on this debut is tasteful,heavy influenced by electric jazz roots,fusion, often with world (Eastern European soulful melodic) and blues elements. Compositions are relaxed, quite light and well balanced. Not a soloist, but team work.

It's difficult to name this work essential, more pleasant electric jazzy listening. But even if not on the level of great fusion standards, this album is good listening, especially for SBB fans, interested in different side of band's guitarist.

About 2,5, rounded to 3.

Small but well formed

With his involvement in the prolific SBB along with many other projects, Apostolis Anthimos could be forgiven for finding little time for a solo career. This though his third such release, the promotional material for the album indicating that "Apostolis talks about simple, common things like friendly chats about every-day stuff, about life and about us, the common people. About music and inspirations, simple friendship, cheerfulness, about passions and dreams. And all that is kept in the spirit of this album - a specific mosaic of sounds, emotions and impressions. These miniatures are like a sip of ouzo, they are musical pearls with a slice of magma, a journey to the modern Acropolis, but also the madness of Hellas".

Anthimos plays virtually everything you hear on the album himself, accompanied only by Robert Szewczuga on bass guitar. The album is thus naturally guitar focused, but his keyboards and drums skills should not be allowed to go unnoticed.

The tracks are bite sized chunks (hence the title) of simple themes which are developed by Anthimos through improvisation. While we do not therefore have the lengthy pieces we associate with SBB, there is a familiarity to the resultant music here.

The tracks range from the challenging ("Circles") to the relatively accessible, "Far eastern road" featuring some pleasant multi tracked lead guitar. On tracks such as "Midnight walking", Anthimos is keen to bring to the fore his drumming skills, the lead guitar effectively becoming the supporting instrument.

It is fair to say that this album will not be to everyone's taste. From a prog perspective, while the tracks are based on improvisation they are not developed through changes of time signature or complex arrangements. The focus is primarily on the jazz influences Anthimos has absorbed more than the rock ones. This is though a highly accomplished work in its field, and recommended to those who enjoy guitar based fusion.