David Boswell - The Story Behind the Story (2020)

A remarkably skilled guitarist, David Boswell is releasing his sixth in a series of melodic and adventurous CDs. The Story Behind The Story, which was recorded for the My Quiet Moon label, features 8 of his originals plus “Innocence” written by his co-producer Jimmy Haslip and Barry Coates. On this project, Boswell leads all-star groups that include Scott Kinsey, Mitchel Forman or Otmaro Ruiz on keyboards, Bart Samolis or Jimmy Haslip (famous for his years with the Yellowjackets) on bass, MB Gordy or Gary Novak on drums, and guest tenor-saxophonist Andy Snitzer.

The music on The Story Behind The Story features a very attractive group sound with the guitarist in the lead, melodic improvising, and memorable melodies. While fans of Pat Metheny will find much to enjoy, Boswell’s solos and original compositions fall into their own musical category, crossing over between idioms while still being creative modern jazz.

The wide-ranging program begins with “Miraculous,” a warm tribute to several people who have made deep impressions in David Boswell’s life. His warm tone is well displayed on the pretty melody. “A Los Angeles Minute” is energetic but relaxed in an L.A. (rather than New York) way, generating heat with prominent bass playing by Bart Samolis. “Innocence” follows with a wistful and quietly haunting melody.

“The Story Behind The Story” starts with a repeated note before building up in an epic fashion, becoming quite celebratory. The brief and heartfelt ballad “Prayer For The Planet” precedes an energetic “Alta” and the romantic theme of “The Wind In Her Hair.” The enjoyable program concludes with the uptempo “Los Olivos” which has some strong percussion playing by MB Gordy, and “The Sun And The Moon” which, after a quiet start, puts the focus on Snitzer’s passionate tenor.

The Story Behind The Story is the latest accomplishment in David Boswell’s productive career. Born in San Francisco, he grew up in nearby Saratoga and began playing the guitar when he was seven. David played early on in rock bands but as a teenager became quite interested in jazz, particularly after attending a Pat Metheny concert. Only a short time later, he had an opportunity to study with Metheny, bassist Dave Holland, and drummer Jack DeJohnette for a few weeks in Woodstock, NY, an experience that made a strong impression on the young guitarist.

David worked with rock groups in the San Francisco area (most notably the Metro Jets), earned a degree at the Grove School of Music in Los Angeles, and studied film scoring at UCLA. His technical skills and versatility resulted in him becoming a busy session and studio musician including recording with a variety of top Broadway performers. Even at his busiest, David always found time to lead his own jazz trio, developing a personal voice as an improviser while also becoming an original composer.

Starting in 2004 with Hold Tight To Your Dreams, David Boswell has recorded a series of stimulating CDs as a leader including Bridge Of Art (which includes the popular “Simple Life”), I Like That, Windows, Storyboard’s Hello, and now arguably his finest project, The Story Behind The Story.

“Why Should Kids Have All the Fun” (Uscher and Singer) and “Spread Your Wings” (Oren Levine) are numbers that speak to the passage from childhood to adulthood. That first taste of freedom is both liberating and terrifying. As Donna reflects, “How do you balance the pride in seeing your children turn into independent adults with the fear about what might happen?” This is the conundrum that all parents must confront. And now we have a musical piece that puts these feelings to lyrics and gives us comfort that we’re not the only ones going through this particular situation.

“How It Ends” (Oren Levine) is equally pensive and profound. The composer wrote this number as he reflected upon the spate of school shootings and other tragedies that beset young adults. This boils down those complicated news stories into a more relatable, personal tale: “In my eyes, I see the tears…Wondering how it ends.” When we face difficult situations, isn’t that the question we ask? And here again is maestra Donna Singer giving us comfort with her graceful performance.

“My Dear” (Oren Levine) is a song that speaks to all parents. When it’s late at night and you hear a noise from your child’s room, all kinds of thoughts and even fears start to creep in the mind. This song is a reminder of the importance of the reassuring word and warm hug. A beautiful and emotive performance by Singer is inviting, welcoming, and all parts of reassuring. The final two numbers

“Your Road” and “We Can Make a Stand” are tributes to independence and interdependence. All children grow up to embark upon their own path. At the same time, strong families stick together and nurture each other, providing comfort and support.

Set Your Heart Free is ultimately a project born of empathy. It’s a musical testament to that adage, “I’ve been there.” That Donna sings so exquisitely can give us comfort that not only can we face the challenges that come our way in an elegant way. But we can also do it together. We’re all better for having this production in our lives.