DAYS WE CAN'T FORGET

APOSTOLIS ANTHIMOS is Polish/Greek musician well known as S.B.B. guitarist (playing in every band's incarnation till now). In his early years he played as support musician to great Polish singer and musician Czeslaw Niemen.

This album is guitarist's solo debut, recorded with well respected American jazz, fusion and blues musicians. Differently from his work with Niemen or S.B.B., music there is electric jazz and jazz fusion. Musicians, participated on this recording, are mostly Pat Metheny Group associates (Paul Wertico, Jim Beard, Matt Garrison, Gil Goldstein), bluesman Sugar Blue added his harmonica in one song as well.

Music on this debut is tasteful,heavy influenced by electric jazz roots,fusion, often with world (Eastern European soulful melodic) and blues elements. Compositions are relaxed, quite light and well balanced. Not a soloist, but team work.

It's difficult to name this work essential, more pleasant electric jazzy listening. But even if not on the level of great fusion standards, this album is good listening, especially for SBB fans, interested in different side of band's guitarist.

About 2,5, rounded to 3.

Superficial and rather average Fusion.

Firstly, the previous review by Special Collaborator "snobb" is absolutely spot on and I could only second his accurate observations. So, there is little point of repeating it here. Instead, I'd just like to add a few more words.

In his band SBB, Apostolis had exhibited an individual and rather unique approach to the electric guitar. A one of a kind, unimitable, constantly evolving style that provided the listener with great admiration and satisfaction.

At times his approach revealed a nod of respect towards John McLaughlin, electric Miles so it's hardly surprising that his first solo album is Jazz, or more like Fusion oriented. Modestly ambitious and sadly, missing the mark. Accompanied by excellent Jazz musicians it's a team effort and the end result is that no-one really stands out, a lot of talent remains concealed.

The music itself is pleasant enough, but great it isn't. Rather mediocre and even Apostolis is held back, more in a conformist style than his innovative manner. His focus on playing drums and keyboards as well had a detrimental effect on his guitar.

It's not a bad album, but by comparison it's not a strong one, either. Hardly essential.