Hill
is a native of Duram where he opened after a period as musician his
own recording studio. He has since engineered for Lois Dawson, Norman
Conners and other artists. He regularly releases solo projects which
are available at CDBaby (Deep Inside Of Me, 1996; Another
Place In Time, 1997; My Destination, 1998; Some Love
& Peace, 1999; Open Door, 2002; A Restful Day,
2004. His newest album is titled Natural Evolution (2006). The
title gives the impression of a musical process in Hill's career.
First of all Hill is a multi-instrumentalist. The album was recorded
by Willie Hill (acoustic guitar, bass, keyboards, drum programming)
and Tony Springs (keyboards, drum programming). The pros and cons of a
two-man-album are to find in the music. So what can we await?
The first track Reaching For Me starts with a
mellow piano melody underlined by strings and acoustic guitar. In the
style of Jim Brickman Hill lays down his arrangement in the world of
New Age. The instruments are performed with sensitivity.
The uptempo New Life combines piano,
keyboards and a rhythm line to a sultry soundscape. There is no hectic
or rebellious excitement.
Dancing Feet is based on a rhythm loop
attached by a guitar riff similar to a loop. Some hypnotic vibration
is urging the audience to dance floor.
A Brighter Day is assembled around a rim
shot-based rhythm, acoustic guitar, piano and a big dose of strings.
Each Day is a continuation of the previous
tune added with a refrain by singer Tiny Cagle. A calm tune rather
uneventful.
This is changing with Hold On featuring Tiny
Cagle who also penned this song for Hill's album. Tiny Cagle has a
clear and impressing voice with a strong articulation. I also like the
chorus arrangement. Surprising good!
Forever is featuring singer Tony Springs in a
romantic ballade. Tony Springs has already performed on several of Willie
Hill's solo projects. Always a noteworthy contribution.
I Dream has some good instrumental
intonations. Perhaps Hill should engage for his next project a jazz
drummer to level up the tension.
What I Feel is flowing around like a sound
collage. This is on the borderline to New Age.
Living Without You is without no doubt an
awesome song. I also like Tony Springs' interpretation. The guitar implantation
is just perfect. But less strings would be helpful to let the song
shine.
Just Because has the same inner tranquility
like most of the tracks. A piano excursion based on a guitar riff.
Strolling Around awakes the wish in me that
Willie lets his guitar play. Most of the time is the piano the lead
instrument and the strings are playing a too important role. Willie
Hill has a great talent and his performance is flawless.
Natural Evolution is music for the recreation
of a hectic world. If you have the time to have a rest, drink your
favorite drink and have some cool small talk this is the right music
for you.
- Bio
- Willie Hill - Website
- Buy the album at
- Title: Natural Evolution
Artist: Willie Hill
Year: 2006
Length: 0:58:15
Genre: Smooth Jazz
Label: Joy Records
Tracks:
01 Reaching For Me [5:33]
02 A New Life [3:50]
03 Dancing Feet [4:29]
04 A Brighter Day [4:15]
05 Each Day [4:28]
06 Hold On [4:21]
07 Forever [5:34]
08 I Dream [5:23]
09 What I Feel [5:17]
10 Living Without You [5:23]
11 Just Because [5:16]
12 Strolling Along [4:25]
