Forsyth Chris All Time Present

The annals of music history are overflowing with gifted guitarists whose egos have prevented them from realizing their full potential: Instead of contenting themselves with being extraordinary band members, they instead create unusual records as leaders of futile attempts to prove their worth as solo artists.guitarist and songwriter bandleader Chris Forsyth is the rare exception that confirms the rule. Rightly known as a guitarist par excellence, his latest double album "All Time Present" shows that his dazzling musicality can always be taken for granted, but is hardly the whole story. Forsyth's albums, whether with his Solar Motel Band or nominally solo, have always been proof of a musical spirit full of ideas. On "AllTime Present" Forsyth is again accompanied by bassist Peter Kerlin and multi-instrumentalist Shawn Edward Hansen, new to the group is Ryan Jewell, a sublimely talented drummer whose musicality is seemingly unfathomable. With these fellow musicians Forsyth is at the peak of his skills. All Time Present" is the rare double album that fades in the twinkling of an eye. One of Forsyth's greatest strengths as a composer and bandleader is his constant ability to maintain the listener's interest even when improvised: He drifts, but he doesn't wiggle aimlessly. A special feature of "All Time Present" is that Forsyth, with a sudden rise of uninhibited courage, moves towards the middle of the dance floor.