Todd Mosby - Open Waters (2019)

"Open Waters" is the fifth album from Todd Mosby, an artist whose creativity knows no bounds. The album was produced by Will Ackerman, founder of Windham Hill Records, who calls it “the best project I have been involved with.” With all of the music luminaries Ackerman has worked with over the years, that’s quite a statement! Ackerman further states: “Todd Mosby is the most unique sounding guitarist I have ever worked with, nobody does what he does.” "Open" Waters is a concept album based on the legend of Atlantis - Plato’s story of the destruction of the ancient civilization and what survivors might have felt as they escaped in ships heading westward. The music itself is impossible to categorize, utilizing elements of jazz, pop, new age, folk and Indian music. The CD includes an eight-page booklet with information about the music, photos of Mosby, and a short poem for each piece.

It doesn’t take much digging around to discover what makes this album unique. It features acoustic and electric “Imrat guitars,” 20-string hybrid sitar/guitars that Mosby co-invented with Imrat Khan and Kim Schwartz. The instrument allows Western musicians to access Eastern melodies and Eastern musicians to access Western harmonies for the first time. Mosby composed all twelve tracks and performs on Imrat guitars as well as acoustic guitars, synth bass and Fender Rhodes. Additional musicians include Imaginary Road Studios all-stars Charlie Bisharat (violin), Premik Russell Tubbs (wind instruments), Tom Eaton (Fender Rhodes and hand percussion), Jeff Haynes (percussion) and Noah Wilding (vocals). Other guest artists include Michael Manning (bass), Fiona Joy (piano), Lola Hennecki (vocals and piano) and Steve Bankuti (drums).

"Open Waters" begins with “Drifting,” a duet with Michael Manring that borders on ambient while evoking images of stars reflected on calm seas as “dreams float in tempo.” Smooth and hypnotic, “Atlantica” is named for the mythical land (Mosby’s muse) and is quite a bit jazzier. The title track picks up the tempo as well as a sense of adventure - we’re underway! A lively and playfully upbeat toe-tapper, “Coming About” presents an intriguing dialog between acoustic guitar, electric Imrat guitar and violin (plus vocals, piano, drums and percussion) - sure to bring a smile! “A New Land” is a beautiful acoustic piece that includes Fiona Joy on piano. Gentle and calming, it’s a favorite. “Western Sky” is the only track with lyrics (written and sung by Lola Hennecki), and is a wistful love song with a smooth jazz vibe. “Dolphin Song” also features Charlie Bisharat and Fiona Joy, but is mostly a gentle, melodic acoustic guitar piece - also a favorite. “Island Song” has a light and breezy air that refreshes as it soothes. “So Far Away,” a is warm and dreamy guitar solo (acoustic), is the only solo on the album. “Sea of Joni” brings this excellent album to an upbeat, toe-tapping close while overflowing with joy and optimism.