Steve Laury spent his first two solo efforts trying to lift his breezy electric guitar beyond its previous incarnation as a part of
Fattburger's easygoing contempo sound, only succeeding some of the time. Proving that the third time is indeed the charm,
Laury does well
Keepin' The Faith, mixing in just enough smooth to please Fatt fans but often firing up for some of this year's most energetic string stylings. His tight, punchy spicings are complemented perfectly by the vocal scat and solid keyboard contributions of post Fatt partner and fellow San Diegan Ron Satterfield. Together,
Laury and Satterfield compose pieces that balance tender accessibility with explosive creativity. It's an equal and musically satisfying parntership, giving each the opportunity to expand beyond the constrictions of their other associations. Saxman John Rekevics and percussionist Duncan Moore add extra harmonic and rhythmic spice to the mix. ~ Jonathan Widran