Another special CD release from Chad McCullough…
Chad McCullough – In These Hills, Beyond – Calligram Records #0014 – CD- 79:54 – ****
(Chad McCullough – trumpet; Bram Weijters – piano & keyboards; Dave Miller – guitar; John Christensen – bass; Kobie Watkins – drums)
Chicago based trumpeter, Chad McCullough, continues to be on our radar screen for his fine work. We last reviewed his Outside In label release, Forward, in 2022. Possessed of a warm burnished trumpet timbre that stands out in both lyrical and more edgy settings, Chad’s latest release, in these hills, beyond, on Calligram Records, continues to move his path in winning directions.
Recorded live in Madison, Wisconsin, at a gig at North Street Cabaret, over two nights in mid-January, 2023, it must have been a bittersweet experience, as the CD’s theme was “celebrating life and the human connection.” But just before going on tour, his grandfather, Charles McCullough, had recently passed away. (Charles’ photograph is in the gate fold packaging).
There is a blend of wistfulness and introspection throughout the nine tracks.
“Fellowship,” at thirteen minutes, has a great blend of mournful trumpet, superb guitar choruses from Dave Miller, and fine piano accompaniment from Bram Weijters. “Imaginary Folk Song” and “Balance Forward” continue the mood.
The ambiance changes dramatically on “Handwritten, going from an air of mystery, to a venture into quite “open” territory. Miller’s guitar again is featured on “Another Monster,” which I found to be a modal exploration.
“Waterway” returns with more moody Americana beauty. The closer, “Forgotten Dreams” brought me back to the blend of intrigue and and comfort found on Chad’s Forward CD. There is a searching quality on this track, as there might be “unfinished business” here.
Once again, Chad McCullough, continues his journey with an intoxicating blend of warm trumpet articulation, with creative ideas. Listeners can eagerly await what directions the future might bring.
—Jeff Krow
Chad McCullough – In These Hills, Beyond
Tracklist:
Fellowship
Imaginary Folk Song
Magic Music Man
Balance Wheel
Handwritten
Another Monster
Waterway
Detour
Forgotten Dreams
