L.A. Jazz Scene reviews "In All The Ways"



Dan Haedicke
In All The Ways
(Kwality Records)

Dan Haedicke is a talented guitarist whose melodic brand of jazz is well featured on his debut recording as a leader, In All The Ways. Born and raised in Washington D.C., Haedicke moved to New York to attend the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music .He started the Kwality Records label in 2007 and has since worked with artists in a variety of idioms. In 2014 Haedicke formed the DH4, a jazz group that also includes trumpeter Indofunk Satish, bassist Everett Boyd and drummer Doron Lev. On this CD, the quartet is augmented by keyboardist Robert Knowles, Sean Schulich on flute, altoist Lakecia Benjamin (who is on one song), and singers Sun Singleton and Tondrae Kemp.

Haedicke’s seven originals contain hummable melodies and feature fine solos by Haedicke, Satish, Knowles and Schulich. The interplay between guitar and flute sometimes recall the classic CTI recordings of George Benson and Hubert Laws. The opener, “Aquamarino,” has a Latin jazz feel with good spots for guitar and flute. “Dajo” is based on a happy melodic groove while “In All The Ways” features catchy light funk rhythms and fine singing from Tondrae Kemp. “If The Stars” is a modern bossa nova with Sun Singleton’s voice being used as part of the ensemble. The funky strut “October” has Haedicke’s most rewarding guitar solo of the set. “Nola Shout” is a 6/4 romp inspired by New Orleans that includes some wailing blues/rock playing by the guitarist. The CD closes with the rockish “Fenix” which has Haedicke sounding a little like Carlos Santana, ending the CD on an exciting level.

In All The Ways, which is both accessible and creative within the idiom, is available from www.kwalityrecords.com.

by Scott Yanow

Via L.A. Jazz Scene