Chromatosphere

Jazz guitarist Jake Hertzog has recently released an adventurous new jazz fusion album titled Chromatosphere (That’s Out Records), which was recorded and produced by Grammy-winner Joshua Paul Thompson.  Originally a guitarist performing in rock bands, Jake turned his interests to jazz and began studying with Chip McNeill in high school, later performing with the University of Illinois jazz ensembles.  Soon he was off to the Berkley College of Music on scholarship, graduating in 2007.  Of the numerous awards Jake has won for his playing, most notable was at the 2006 Montreux Jazz Guitar Competition.

The album starts with “California Hills,” which is the most thrilling track on the album but also the farthest removed from the collective sound and vibe of the rest of the songs.  It seems to work very well, though, as a lead into the album, because it delivers some of the abrasive energy of rock music to vitalize the listener, coupled with the delicate intricacies of a refined jazz player.

Aside from the obvious playing skills, the album also showcases Jake’s ability to reinvent old standards.  A highlight is his arrangement of “Almost Like Being In Love,” which is a creative but almost risky endeavor.  Jake’s more dissonant style of soloing might disappoint some fans of the traditional, upbeat swing styling of Frank Sinatra or the Dorsey Brothers,  but Jake is truly striving to appeal to the contemporary listener, who will definitely be intrigued to listen on. Shining brightly on this song is bassist Harvie S, who offers a more traditional but nonetheless impressive solo.

It seems that all of Jake’s virtuosity is on display.  He’s letting everyone know he’s got exceptional skills and versatility.  At points, however, it becomes a double-edged sword.  Some of the solos become a bit excessive and end up being more ego-driven than really thoughtful and relevant to the song.

Jake Hertzog©Paul Aresu

Of particular interest to us is Jake’s treatment of the Dave Brubeck standard, “In Your Own Sweet Way.” Including such a song is a bold undertaking since Brubeck uses those big block chords, which can’t be duplicated on guitar. A pleasant surprise is in store for lovers of the guitar, for Jakes treatment is cool and interesting. The support by bass player Harvie S is nothing short of excellent! Again the guitar comes across a bit thin in tonal quality on some of the passages.

Jake is supported by great musicianship: Harvie S is the glue that holds the arrangements together; Michael Wolff on piano has the right stuff, plays great underneath comps and wonderful solos. “Nectarine” speaks for itself, showing his artistry. The drummer Victor Jones rounds out the sound with a solid traditional style! 
 

Chromatosphere presents the jazz world with a bright young player who will quite possibly end up being one of the leaders in modern jazz guitar playing.  Jake’s highly developed skill and propensity to take some risks will do wonders for his career and keep him on the modern edge of music.

In a nut shell: A must-have for contemporary jazz listeners, to be appreciated by not just critics but a wide range of music enthusiasts! 

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