MUSIC REVIEW BY Damian Erskine, Bass Musician Magazine
Portland's very own Kevin Deitz really shines here with the release of Skylines. Kevin has had a wealth of experience playing bass everywhere from touring Broadway productions to the stage with the likes of Mose allison, Art Blakey, Dave Brubeck, Sheena Easton and everyone in between. Equally at home on upright as he is on his 7-string Conklin, Kevin showcases his abilities on both instruments with musicality, style and grace with Skylines.
Featuring all original tunes, the acoustic material is swinging hard and features many of Portland's world class musicians (all of whom I know and can tell you, these are some BAD cats!!). From lush and beautiful ballads, straight ahead jazz and the bop side of things, Kevin has wonderful tone, great intonation and some truly wonderful solos.
He seems to favor a Brazilian approach when writing for and playing his electric 7-string Conklin. Some may draw a comparison to Patitucci's sense of time and groove (and great note choices!). At once pretty and aggressive, I found it all a real joy to listen too. I kept forgetting that these were friends & peers and, instead, found myself really digging the music and the players. I'm proud to say that this disc displays much of what makes Portland such a wonderful place to live and play.
Featuring all original tunes, the acoustic material is swinging hard and features many of Portland's world class musicians (all of whom I know and can tell you, these are some BAD cats!!). From lush and beautiful ballads, straight ahead jazz and the bop side of things, Kevin has wonderful tone, great intonation and some truly wonderful solos.
He seems to favor a Brazilian approach when writing for and playing his electric 7-string Conklin. Some may draw a comparison to Patitucci's sense of time and groove (and great note choices!). At once pretty and aggressive, I found it all a real joy to listen too. I kept forgetting that these were friends & peers and, instead, found myself really digging the music and the players. I'm proud to say that this disc displays much of what makes Portland such a wonderful place to live and play.