CHRIS STANDRING
Blue Bolero
Ultimate Vibe Recordings

BLUE BOLERO marks the return of the Aylesbury farm boy. For many years and five albums, British-born Chis Standring has sought to define his abundant talent across genres as diverse as soul jazz, smooth jazz, even jazz jazz… but it is the release of this, his 6th album, that finally nails his genius for cinematic, moody, orchestral pieces - light years away from the noodlings of his contemporaries. This is serious stuff cut away from commercial restraints and the hit single offers beautifully orchestrated backdrops, allowing Chris’ magnificent guitar work to shine. You’re pulled in immediately with the opening cut “Overture” and its marvelous pizzicato strings, then taken by the blues of “At the end of the day“ and transported so cleverly with the astonishing title track as it builds and builds to a sensuous climax. BLUE BOLERO deserves your full attention as it may just be one of the best releases of this year! ~STEWART COXHEAD