Reviewed by Carson James
Artist: Vahe
Title: Inspiration
The title is certainly apt; Vahe has produced an album that is definitely inspired, a work of love and good feeling that warms the heart with each succeeding track. You don’t have to be a fan of Latin jazz to appreciate the sunny glow of the music here. The opening cut, “Romantic Whisper,” caresses the ears with its playful tropical percussion, shuffling beat, and incandescent acoustic guitar. The production is crisp and elegant; you can hear every subtle turn of the guitar strings. Vahe’s playing is mesmerizing and aims for beauty, which he effortlessly achieves.
On “Rumba Flamenca,” the seduction continues as luscious guitar work cradles us with soft hands; it has a pleasant, summer-afternoon vibe that creates a sparkle in the eye. The title track is something altogether more ambitious, a sweeping, orchestral number that wows the senses. It is both cinematic and intimate, a rare combination that deserves to be treasured. There isn’t a single misstep on Inspiration. Vahe is a master craftsman with the loveliness of the world as his muse. We are inspired because of it.
