Gideon van Gelder - Lighthouse (2014)

Pianist Gideon van Gelder left a lasting impression with his internationally acclaimed debut 'Perpetual'. He now follows up with an album featuring Becca Stevens on vocals and Jamire Williams (John Mayer, Robert Glasper, Bilal, Christian Scott) on drums. Earthy and ethereal, 'Lighthouse' showcases Van Gelder's growth as a musical story-teller while at the same time tipping the hat to influences Toninho Horta and Milton Nascimento. With 'Lighthouse' Gideon pays tribute to his current musical influences (Electronica, 70's pop and Brazilian music) but ignores any stylistic boundaries just the same. The band's signature sound, ranging from heavy bass (Rick Rosato) to Becca Stevens' ethereal vocals, gained depth and color by the addition of the fresh, rock-solid grooves of drummer Jamire Williams and the sonic skills of co-producer Brian Bender (José James). The end result is a highly personal and bold musical statement that might be hard to label but is just as easy to get into.