Search - Russ Hewitt :: Bajo El Sol

Writings by Serge Kozlovsky

Serge Kozlovsky | Minsk, Belarus | 06/22/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"In poignant music of guitar

All life flies by



It is always an exciting moment for any reviewer to see a birth of a new star. Now this possibility is presented to me. Russ Hewitt is evidently a great talent. His sparkling Nuevo Flamenco music captivates the listener from the first chords of his passionate guitar.



The artist undoubtedly has his own style of guitar playing. Russ Hewitt is a true virtuoso - his instrument conveys the widest palette of emotions. And in addition to that Russ Hewitt's flamenco is wild as this music must be. These are true emotions without superfluous embellishment to please the listeners.



Russ Hewitt masterfully interweaves various ethnic tunes into his music. The artist's debut album "Bajo el Sol" is inspired by Hewitt's travels trough Europe, Turkey, China and Egypt. This is an intoxicating cocktail of flamenco, Latin jazz and folk music.



All ten compositions of "Bajo el Sol" are listened to in one breath. When this music is ceased you cannot believe how rapidly it happened and you certainly will want to listen to Russ Hewitt's debit album repeatedly. "Bajo el Sol" is sincere music for sincere souls.



Serge Kozlovsky

[...]"

SmoothJazz.com Review

Sandy Shore | Monterey, CA | 05/06/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Russ Hewitt. Russ Hewitt. Russ Hewitt. Get used to hearing and saying the name because this guitar virtuoso is a star in the making. Hewitt combines Latin, jazz and flamenco styles on his debut release, BAJO EL SOL (Under the Sun), for a remarkable aural trip around the world. "After backpacking through Europe and traveling in Turkey, China and Egypt, I was so awed by my exposure to the authentic music of each region. I was able to jam with players on my travels as well, which was amazing. When I got home, I was inspired to create the original music on BAJO EL SOL," says Hewitt of the inspiration behind the recording. The latest single from the CD, "Lydia" sparkles with a delightfully captivating vivacity, but every track is stellar, from graceful to energetic. In Hewitt's own words, "They say, music is the universal language... I hope my record speaks to everyone." [...] introduces the globe to Russ Hewitt, remember his name! ~BETH LEWIS"

From MainlyPiano

Kathy Parsons | Florence, OR United States | 01/28/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

""Bajo El Sol" ("Under the Sun") is the exciting debut CD by guitarist Russ Hewitt. A longtime rock guitarist from Texas, Hewitt has also been playing nuevo flamenco for the past ten years. A graduate of North Texas University with a degree in classical performance, Hewitt is also a seasoned studio musician. Inspired by a backpacking trip through Europe and travels in Turkey, China, and Egypt as well as the experience of playing with musicians in those countries, Hewitt calls his style "Latin World." Impeccably recorded with a bright, sparkling sound, the music is rhythmic and upbeat, overflowing with the joy of making music. Hewitt is nothing less than a guitar virtuoso, and his lightning-fast runs sound effortless. His band is also top-notch: drummer Walfredo Reyes, Jr., percussionist Raphael Padilla, bassist Bob Parr, and flamenco guitar prodigy Alfredo Caceres. A stellar group!



All ten pieces on "Bajo El Sol" are exceptional, but I'll tell you a bit about my favorites. The title track begins the CD with a burst of energy and good humor. Starting with atmospheric sounds and gentle orchestration behind the guitar, "Lydia" alternates between playful and dancing to a more pensive mood, ending with her carefree dance as it trails off into the distance. As its title implies, "Tranquillo" is calm and peaceful with a strong but gentle rhythm that keeps it moving. "Inger" is a sensous beauty that sways to the exotic beat and fancy guitar finger work. I love "El Beso" (The Kiss), which is a little bit darker, very passionate, and has a gorgeous melody. Steel drums in the background give it a tropical flavor. "Simatai (View From The Great Wall)" creates the feeling of a quickening pulse when faced with something truly awesome - majesty blended with humility. "Ojos Bonitos" is hypnotic with its intoxicating rhythm and intensity. "Byzantine" pulls out all the stops, blending Latin and Middle Eastern musical motifs into an exciting fusion that really cooks. This is a great piece for cranking up the volume and letting the music envelop you.



I'm sure "Bajo El Sol" is just the tip of the proverbial iceberg for Russ Hewitt. His music is superlative and he has the sultry good looks of a superstar. Look out world, here he comes! I give this one both thumbs up and expect it to be a favorite for 2009. Bravo!"