If you ever need some listening music that is positive, happy and uplifting then you must acquire a copy of a CD called “Little By Little”. Vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and composer Nathen Aswell has recorded an upbeat and uplifting performance of 11 originals. Nathen’s crystal-clear voice is well out front in this recording and his vocal performances show that he has an incredible range (a la Stevie Wonder) and knows how to use it.There are plenty of styles presented on this CD. Just when you think it is going to be contemporary rock/pop throughout, Nathen comes up with a composition called “More Than Enough” that takes you back to the 30s style. This song is complete with a well-done vocal imitation of a trumpet solo just like the Mills Brothers (remember them?) used to do. The next track on the CD is a smooth jazz waltz called “Just Like This”. Nathen’s vocal is accompanied by guitarist Daryl Jahnke and drummer Shawn Soucy. A great duet sung on a song called “Breathe” features a flawless a cappella performance by Nathen and Linda Kidder. Another composition called “Psalm 96” and sung solo a cappella by Nathen uses reverb very effectively and the performance is simply the best. Other guest performers on the CD include drummer Phil Robertson, guitarist Andreas Schuld, cellist Finn Manniche and percussionist Lauri Lyster. The CD was mixed and mastered by Miles Hill. To purchase this great CD, go to www.bruha.com or www.nathenaswell.com on the internet, or e-mail nathenaswell@shaw.ca.
January 17, 2014
