It also highlights how effective a band leader Budjana is as he coaxes some amazing performances from his fellow contributors. Takes the guitar work from guest ax man Guthrie Govan. Govan steps way outside his pyrotechnical Aristocrats wrangling and delivers a rubbery tone poem so drenched in selective emotions it’s remarkable. Elsewhere Danny Markovich breathes life into his woodwind with some unison playing that lock steps on the road to nirvana.

The backing band is also filled with heavyweights (and includes Tony Levin, Jack Dejohnette and Gary Husband to name a few) but then it defies contemporary logic with interplay that is so subtle and finely nuanced. Individual glory completely submerged to the collective gain. Once again Budjana’s leadership is an outstanding feature. There is even some real live orchestral embellishments care of the Czech Symphony Orchestra that provide even more emotional impact.

Saying music is a universal language is an easy statement to make but one that carriers great importance, especially given the divisive times we currently have to endure. This work collects talent from across the globe and puts it to work in a way that helps to transcend borders and theologies. Worldwide unity will have to come from the creative sphere because so little exists outside of it.

Rob Hudson
www.dewabudjana.com

This collection of songs (the first release of an upcoming trilogy) sees Dewa indulge in his most esoteric nature and the end result makes one happy, very happy.

His phrasing is sublime and the variety of tones he unleashes from a wide selection of guitars is remarkable but what most impresses is how uplifting this music actual is. Utilizing a wide range of guest artists and their unique instruments (to most western ears) also gives the work a travel log vibe filled with the treasure of discovery.

This international mix isn’t all foreign to Western ears though and there are some very cool moments when say on a track like Rerad Rerod an earthy harmonica (by Howard Levy) drops in makes its point and then drops back out or other times when the solos are almost blues based. These moments firmly root the music in terra firma.

Add this work to your collection and the next time that you find yourself in one of those moments of musical indecision, you will have the perfect antidote to play. One that will make your emotions soar right along with the music.

Rob Hudson
www.dewabudjana.com