Patrick Yandall, From the Ashes

Guitarist Patrick Yandall has just released From the Ashes under the Apria label. A prolific recording artist and producer, Yandall has also appeared nationally at festivals and other venues. From the Ashes represents an artistic muse that came to Yandall after his personal experience with the San Diego fires. Although his family and home were spared, Yandall found himself passionately consumed with a wealth of feelings, emotions and creative notions.
From the Ashes kicks off with an upbeat Heart Promise. Vibrant in sound and abundant in textures, Yandall sets a danceable groove on guitar. Drummer Joel Rosenblatt confidently drives the song without overpowering the horn section. The B3 organ is the perfect combo to Yandall’s fluid guitar work in Hope Springs Eternal. Yandall slows things down to a finger-snapping pace in All Day Music.

Italian saxist Ada Rovatti and trumpeter Randy Brecker join forces for a simmering Hot Pockets. Will Lee on bass sizzles, while Yandall lets the guitar heat things up on this one as well. By contrast, First Dance is a soundscape of rhythmic delights with a bluesy and romantic vibe.

While each track captured my attention, my overall favorite was The Land of Aros. Hot Latin percussion by Joel Rosenblatt and Yandall’s steaming guitar lines make this a remarkable tune. As the album comes to a close, renowned keyboardist Scott Wilkie will serve as one of the special guests on Yandall’s saucy Firestorm.

Review by Cheryl Hughey jazzreview.com