2007
Paint a Picture, Tell a Story
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About the album
Paint a Picture, Tell a Story is a culmination of Chako’s true mindset of making a unique statement musically. He takes special care in the flow, the instrumentation, and the message he hopes to bring the listener by introducing them to intriguing and compelling compositional transitions and cohesive story-telling.
Chako’s ability to transport the listener and truly elucidate the subject matter of the composition is the cornerstone of Chako’s continuous success in the industry. Many guitar players are described with adjectives such as: amazing technique, chops, and incredible articulation. Chako represents the next level of guitar player. Not only does he exhibit fiery and passionate attack, amazing technique and rapid-fire chops, but he combines years of maturity and the ability to look deep within himself to pull out just the right moments of technique that compliment the presentation, not just a cluttered succession of notes. Like the master composers before him, Chako brings out the inner beauty of writing skills and the reflective, emotive side of jazz.
— Kari Gaffney, Kari-On Productions
From Greg
The title of this CD is inspired by my approach to the guitar and music. It echos the kinds of comments I’ve gotten from other musicians about my playing. I’ve been told over the years on more than one occasion, “ . . . you paint a picture . . . “ or, “ . . . your solo tells a story . . . “, and each time I hear that, I take heart that my musical goal has been achieved. I contrast those comments with: “ . . . nice lick! . . . “ or, “ . . . you have amazing technique! . . . “. For while most players are pleased to know that their technique is admired, the more important aspect of one’s playing is, do you SAY anything! Do you have a style that is significant and your own? This is what I aspire to.
Each time I put together a CD, I think long and hard about making a unique statement, which tunes to include, in what order to present them, the instrumentation, etc. I have always done this, but I hope this CD in particular exemplifies that idea, and satisfactorily displays the culmination of my recording, composing, and playing experience. I hope for you, the listener, it paints a picture, or tells a story . . .
– Greg Chako, liner notes to the original 2007 CD
Listen
Track list
- 01Cycles7:46
- 02Next5:30
- 03Murtabop6:32
- 04Ballad for Andy8:44
- 05Marilyns Dilemma6:15
- 06Hurry Up and Wait5:20
- 07What Da' Funk!8:06
- 08The End of a Love Affair6:42
- 09With Full Heart and Teary Eyes5:16
- 10People Will Say We're in Love6:40
One-Sheet
Reviews
What the critics said
“A first-class straight ahead jazz guitarist with an attractive sound and a swinging style. The songs are well served by the musicians, the results sound fresh, relevant and lively.”
“…wonderful guitar, deeply satisfying… a trip ’round the world… relentless in the energy some real (and legitimate) groovin’ happening here… True jazz aficionados will HAVE to have this one! …best all-round jazz, without qualification, MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!”
“These guys can play their asses off. There’s joy, pain, heartbreak, and love within these songs.”
“Chako moving incessantly with guitar splashes in rapid-fire motion. Fast and quick, but always seamless and fluid, the guitarist paints a peaceful landscape throughout.”
“This is one of those rare discs that the jazz aficionado and the casual listener can both listen to and appreciate. Recommended!”
“Chako’s playing, warm, spontaneous, respectful in accompaniment and inventive in improvisation as he delivers each performance as a rounded statement.”
