Rhythm Tree

Smoothjazz.com / SmoothLounge.com Review

     

My first reaction to guitarist Nate Wingfield's first-ever solo album RHYTHM TREE is, "Wow, what a nice sound!" I've long been an advocate of Smooth Jazz enhancing its core sound with other rhythms and genres. Obviously, Nate feels the same way, as he's beautifully integrated intoxicating world rhythms and created a truly refreshing collection of eleven original songs that are at once totally smooth, and also capture the intrigue and complexity of both Caribbean and New Age music. You'll think as you listen to RHYTHM TREE that Nate is from an exotic part of our world, but, no, dreadlocks and all, he's a native Philadelphian who now resides in Vegas, by way of L.A. His résumé's impressive however, having worked over the years with names from Narada Michael Walden to Brian McKnight. His guitar work is superb, ranging from gentle acoustic to searing electric, showing sensitivity to melody and structure that illustrates great maturity and experience. I like this album very much, and I know you will too. His press release mentions that Nate "longs for the day when musicians will once again play from the heart, and are not afraid to think outside the box..." With RHYTHM TREE, Mr. Wingfield has thrown down the gauntlet, and I trust others will be inspired by this masterful album of melodic jazz with its "New World Edge" and its fusion of organic and electronica. This is a special recording, you can't go wrong adding this to your collection! ~SCOTT O'BRIEN