Dewa Budjana – Naurora (Moonjune Records, 2021)
Guitar master Dewa Budjana never disappoints. Everyone of his albums is a true delight and Naurora is no exception. This is instrumental progressive jazz-rock fusion of the highest order.
Naurora consists of 5 tracks, where Dewa Budjana showcases his talent as a multifaceted guitarist and composer. Dewa Budjana treats the listener to stellar guitar solos where he combines dazzling technique with beautiful melodies featuring ear-grabbing hooks and mesmerizing Indonesian flavors.
Dewa is joined by a cast of fantastic musicians who provide a powerful and tight ensemble when needed and are also given opportunities to shine with finely crafted solos and exquisite interplay.
The tracks “Naurora”, “Swarna Jingga”, “Kmalasana” and “Blue Mansion” are all outstanding. Track 4, “Sabana Shanti”, is a little different. I found Paul McCandless’ saxophone too smooth for me and would much rather listen to more of Dewa’s guitar.
The lineup includes Dewa Budjana on guitars and soundscapes; Ben Williams on upright bass; Carlitos Del Puerto on electric bass & upright bass; Dave Weckl on drums; Gary Husband on piano and synthesizer; Imee Ooi on vocals; Jimmy Johnson on electric bass; Joey Alexander on acoustic piano; Mateus Asato on guitar introduction and solo on “Swarna Jingga”; Paul Mccandless on soprano saxophone; and Simon Phillips on drums.
Buy Naurora