With the release of his fourth recording
"One 2 One", Brian continues to explore new
directions, weaving evocative melodies and dazzling fret work
into an exciting blend of Jazz, Latin, Funk & Pop.
The CD kicks off with the with the deep groove and catchy guitar/organ
riff of the retro funk tinged "StringBean" followed
by the breezy title track "One 2 One". Hughes
then takes the listener on a Latin journey, blending a rolling
samba groove with the sizzling timbale fills of Cuban percussionist
Dafnis Prieto Rodriguez on "Postcard From Brazil".
The late night cool of "Here We Go" features
a beautiful melody supported by drum loops & samples to create
a soulful Acid Jazz vibe. Time seems to stand still during the
CD's hypnotic, Zen-like eight minute centerpiece "While
the World Slowly Turns" featuring classic solos by Hughes
and pianist Les Portelli.
"Oh Yeah!" positively crackles with retro energy
as Brian revisits the '70's with a five piece horn section. The
horn section remains, but the feel changes to a spirited Brazilian
samba on the track "Nothing In This World" which
allows drummer Mark Kelso to stretch out with some firey fills
supported by the groups' tight ensemble playing.
"The Way It Is", an upbeat bossa nova, follows
with it's catchy piano riff leading into a hook filled melody
that perfectly compliments the songs 5/4 meter and leads to some
inspired soloing by Brian on the songs' refrain.
The joyful and uplifting "Three Graces", is
a perfect closer for the CD and features the exotic, textural
soundscaping that has become a trademark of Brians' production
style. "I often approach each song as a soundtrack to an
event I see in my mind's eye or an emotion that I feel at the
time" Hughes says. "I tend to develop themes as a singer/songwriter
might."
