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I
have the privilege of knowing the complete back-story leading
to the creation of Warmth of the Night.
The very thought that one would venture to Valencia, Spain
- the birthplace of the same instrument that you eventually
hear on this 'warm' and inviting 14-track disc - shows not
only a complete dedication to craft, but embodies a wonderful
image of a troubadour trekking around the world.
Picking up a new chord here and a melody there, then bringing
to life all these experiences in one tantalizing collection
of material - this alone would be alluring enough to assure
all kinds of interest in the Warmth of the Night CD.
Ultimately, however, it is all about the quality and indeed
the 'warmth' of the music…
From the first note to the last Warmth of the Night
is an enticing potpourri of individual flavours with influences
stretching across many genres; yet always remaining true to
the beautiful sound inherent in the nylon string Spanish/Classical
guitar.
With minimal instrumentation (two guitars on most tracks)
the challenge is always to be original and non-repetitive.
Paul comes up to the task with flying colours - his melodies
are as distinct as they are interesting.
While "Valencia" paints an aural picture of the mystery and
classical splendour of Spain's third-largest city ( along
with its cousin "Scarlet Rose"), "Apres Le Jour" and "Soft
Echoes" deliver elegant and emotive solo spots.
Yet within this collection of original tunes the mood also
swings from the bright and breezy title track, and the vibrant
"Starry Skies," to the soothing refrains of "Candles Burning",
"Brezza Delecata" and the disc's closer, "Twilight's Fading."
In
between are the intimate smooth jazz of "Her Loving Eyes"
and the beautifully executed "Whispers Over Wine."
Welcome surprises are the upbeat country/Tex-Mex of "Mariana,"
the gently pulsing "Calm Me Down" and the languid, atmospheric
richness of "Spanish Moon."
Whether it be for ambiance, or for deeper listening pleasure,
Warmth of the Night unravels its different moods with
subtlety, finesse and depth of feeling throughout.
As somebody who plays and enjoys guitar music on a daily basis,
Warmth of the Night is a heart-warming addition
to my collection, and one that's assured to garner many repeated
listenings both Night and day.
Aaron Benson www.aaron-benson.com
Review by RHYTHMS
MAGAZINE:
"Warmth of the Night" is an apposite title, for
Paul Norris's
album of 14 self-composed, recorded and produced solo and
duo guitar pieces does indeed invoke memories of balmy evenings...
Paul straddles genres on his Spanish-made nylon string guitar
- classical, new age and pop with just a hint of flamenco.
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