Jamie Bonk - My World
Canada
is often recognized around the world for its vast wilderness,
wide-open spaces & bountiful natural resources. But there is more
to discover. I especially speak about the guitar music of Jamie Bonk.
Most of the readers will be experts of guitar music. Peter White, Marc
Antoine, George Benson, Michael O'Neill. The list is long and endless.
Jamie's music concentrates on what is his best: the guitar. No, it's
not a guitar-only album. There are some professional musicians which
supported Jamie's endeavor: Sonja Mitlewski (keyboards, she's also
responsible for the photos in the booklet), Ron Scott and Shelly
Hamilton (vocals) and Peter Janson (acoustic guitar).
The result is surprising good. I dare
to say sensational. His previous album received a lot of acclaims and
best critics as you can read at CDBaby. His new one will beat these predecessors. Jamie admits: "The idea for this piece, and for the
album in general, was to reflect all of the things musical, and
otherwise, that help to define what I do. The challenge, of course,
was to make music that didn't sound like a bunch of styles forced
together and to let my own musical personality shine through. I think
"My World" does just that. Over three years in the making, I
think My World is my strongest and most diverse record to
date."
The starter My
World offers Jamie's strong guitar performance on a dynamic
ride. His playing is flowing and perfect and he always find the moment
for some musical reflection. "There's lots of improv, percolating
worldbeat percussion, a bridge section with some folk/roots rock
electric guitar and an overall upbeat feel to the track,"
comments Jamie.
This Is It
presents an interesting combination of guitar and synthesizer music
with louder and softer parts. Jamie admits: "This Is It"
probably has the edgiest sound I've ever used. I particularly like the
solo in this sample -- emotional and well-pace."
The explanation of the strange title
of the next piece '73 is simple. Jamie:
"One of my friends
asked me if I named this piece "'73" because of the Hammond
organ sound that's similar to tones you hear on older Deep Purple
records. And the answer is partly yes! But it's also one of Sonya's
favourite years... so it really had to be "'73". The
song has a romantic intonation by using acoustic guitar and strings.
If This Is
Love is presenting the raw voice of singer Ron Scott. Ron
tailored this song for himself and it is a highlight of this album
without any restrictions. Somehow the sound reminds me a bit at
stronger songs of Climie & Fisher.
Looking In
is the song Jamie can identify himself with most: "In many ways,
the solo in this sample is the closest to me as an artist. It truly
expresses myself -- emotionally." The tune has a strong romantic
and hooking potential.
When it goes to live performance
Jamie likes the energetic play of Wiggle
most. This tune is very guitar-oriented and the best manifest of
Jamie's skills.
Third Time
has some American flavor of the 60's. It evokes memories of the Eagles
and some other groups of that time. Jamie mentioned Byrds and Chris
Issak.
An homage to Maurice and the Bee
Gees is Nights On Broadway presenting
anew Ron Scott.
What I Never
Said showcases the style Jamie was playing on his earlier
albums. Quasi as a retrospection.
Shelly and Jamie's guitar are
playing a duet on Centre Tone. Remarkable
how she hits the syncopes. Somehow the female version of George
Benson...
The final piece Waiting For Winter
is a slow contemplative guitar piece, a dialogue between Jamie and
Peter. Very expressive Sonya's keyboard background.
If you have a romantic vein don't
miss this album.
