Dec 19, 2013 –The David Barrett Trio is a three-piece band consisting of guitarist and composter David Barrett, bassist Jason Farrar, and drummer Alexander ‘Sascha’ Tukatch. The band’s first – and thus far only – album is a self-titled masterpiece. Produced under the guidance of Alex Lifeson, the virtuoso guitarist for Rush, these eleven songs are powerful and vibrant, and they flow exquisitely from one to the next. When I first sat down to listen, I was surprised to find how quickly those 45 minutes passed by.
This album is influenced by the greats – Yes, Rush, and Les Paul being some of the most notable – and that influence shines through in such songs as “Anamnesis” and “A Whisper to the Thunder”.
The David Barrett Trio is an instrumental band, and their technical skill is something to be marvelled at. Ten of the eleven songs on David Barrett Trio are instrumental, and they are all exceptionally strong, from the first track (“Dive”) to the last (“Great Eastern Sun”). Barrett, Farrar, and Tukatch are truly the definition of artists.
As mentioned above, one of the songs on the album is not instrumental – and that is “Belmonte”, a collaboration with Paul Reid, who both co-wrote and sang it. “Belmonte” is beautifully composed, and each note feels artfully placed. Reid’s vocals are strong and they definitely elevate the song to the next level; the move between Reid’s singing and Barrett’s truly moving solo is one of the highest moments in a truly exceptional piece of music.
Overall, the David Barrett Trio shows their dynamic range in this album. The band is able to move effortlessly between hard-rocking tunes and softer, more melodic songs. Hear them for yourself: you can check out their video for “Disappearance” below.
Here’s hoping to hear more from this band soon!
Verdict: 4.5 out of 5
