Seems like no sooner have I written off the European smooth jazz scene as something of a wasteland than great CD's from the 'wrong side' of the Atlantic inundate me. First we had the excellent 'Downtown' from Konstantin Klashtorni and now, completely different but every bit as good, comes 'More Beautiful Each Day' on Betterday Records from UK based smooth jazz guitarist Edison Herbert.

Inspired in his youth by the playing of George Benson in general and his album 'George Benson In Flight' in particular it was no surprise that Edison made the guitar his chosen instrument and, from his gospel roots, started pushing out the boundaries to include R & B, pop and jazz. Trained as a classical pianist, and with credits that include work in television and on London's West End stage, it is clear that 'More Beautiful Each Day' is the culmination of his career so far with influences and experiences interwoven into his very own sound.

'More Beautiful Each Day' further benefits by the collection of great musicians that Edison has compiled to support him. The Edison Herbert Band has Graham Maynard on piano, Brian Edwards on sax, Kenrick Rowe on drums, Wayne Beacaud on vocals and Larry Bartley on acoustic and electric bass. These guys have well and truly been around with Maynard having played for Alexander O'Neal, Larry Bartley with Courtney Pine and both Edwards and Rowe with Aswad. Wayne Beacaud has worked for some time with the band Tuxedo. Together they add a real quality and depth of sound to the recording.

However, with eleven of the thirteen tracks written or co-written by Herbert this is very much a virtuoso performance with his excellent playing compounded by his own tight production. Not only that, the album retains its quality throughout with a distinct lack of fillers. Each track stands on its own merits and contributes in its own way.

Check out the dreamy instrumentals 'Free', 'Mellow Mood' and 'Sunshine' with some of the coolest guitar playing you are likely to hear this year or 'It Happens all The Time', still ultra cool but with nice sax from Brian Edwards and a compelling hook that you wont be able to get out of your head.

Covers are kept to a minimum of one and, when it arrives, Andrew Gold's 'Never Let It Slip Away' is a pleasant surprise that gives Wayne Beacaud plenty of opportunity to display his vocal talents. Personal favorites include the wistful guitar instrumental 'If Only' and 'Share Your Love' where the vocals are superbly handled by guest performer and co-writer of the track Richard McKoy

Just where Edison Herbert has been hiding his talents is hard to know but it's for sure that with 'More Beautiful Each Day' he has really arrived on the scene. - by Denis Poole - May 20, 2005

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