Bob Dee: Double Talk

Versatile composer/guitarist Bob Dee fronts an unusual, skilled quartet on Double Talk (Unika UN 001; 51:31). From the offbeat, off-kilter funk-fusion of “Innuendos” to the blithely swinging, jazzy colors of “Sorcerer,” Dee reveals a bold, aggressive voice that is comfortable in a number of styles. He’s technically impressive as well as entertaining on tracks like “Sweet Pea,” which finds his lighter-toned, lithe harmonies riding a big-beat 6/8 run. The wiry, blues-feel piece “Sahara” is another highlight – Dee’s fuzzy-toned guitar stops to squeal, as the hesitant tempo and bass line evoke the feeling of walking through sand. Dee receives rock solid support throughout, with tricky rhythms grounded by drummer Grisha Alexiev and bassist Takashi Otsuka, and vibraphonist/percussionist Diana Herold adding unique accents-most notably on “Head Circus,” here the vibes add a resonant and unexpected layer to Dee’s creeping guitar melody. These efforts combine to make Double Talk a varied and interesting collection from start to finish-and an indie worth seeking .

Originally Published April 1, 1999