*. Daryl Stuermer .*

Album: Waiting in the Wings (2001)
Genre: Jazz Rock Fusion (Smooth Jazz)  /  USA

Waiting In The Wings is, without question, one of Stuermer's brightest moments as a jazz solo artist.  His first two solo albums (Steppin' Out and Live & Learn), which both have strong moments, pale in comparison to the cohesion on this project. Not only does Stuermer have a solid band in place with the likes of bassist Eric Hervey, drummer John Calarco, and pianist Kostia, but he delivers a release that succeeds in providing a fantastic 'live in the studio' feel. The album also features special guest Luis Conte, a noted jazz percussionist from Phil Collins solo touring band. Among the stand-outs on the album are the title track, "Wherever You Are", "Deja Blue", "Copenhagen" and "Transatlantic." Once again, Stuermer shows his masterful chops as one of jazz's premier guitarists with a solid set of ten well-honed tracks of rock fusion influenced smooth jazz. Musicianship aside, Waiting In The Wings probably stands out most among Stuermer's catalog, because it strays, ever so slightly, from the smooth jazz grooves that became incredibly popular in the late '80s and throughout the '90s in exchange for elements of '70s era jazz, with that great fusion-esque sound that almost reminds me at times of some of his guitar playing with Jean Luc-Ponty or George Duke. It is a style I hope Stuermer continues to reminisce further in the future. (www.worldofgenesis.com)

RATING:  7.5 / 10

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