Stewart
embodies the spirit and energy of the independent music community and its
relationship to the Internet. His son Jason, who happens to be one of the
brightest young guitar players on the planet, also occasionally works with his
father.
The
Knights, a trio consisting of Dick Stewart (guitar), Gary Snow (bass), and
Steve Hudgins (drums), have been at work for several years now. Their
relationship goes far beyond the music; you can feel that warmth in every track
on this CD. The Knights' unique blend of surf and instrumental rock, a sound
that is truly their own, is evident in their latest album.
Then
And Now is a conceptual album that compares the old with the new,
reflecting on the evolution of music and technology. The best examples of the
parallels and effects of modern technology are the songs "Moonbeam,"
"Cut Out 1964," and "Precision 1964."
Each
song has a Y2K counterpart, showcasing the transition from traditional to
modern sounds. Son Jason lets it rip on "The Calm and The Storm." I
knew instantly it was Jason as the first notes came blaring through my
speakers. This guy can rock and is one of the best unknown guitarists actively
making music today.
Dick
Stewart's unique ability to blend traditional surf-instrumental music with the
more modern sounds of today, a sound he helped create, is a testament to his
musical prowess. His sequencing of tracks is a stroke of genius, adding an
element of excitement and intrigue to the final product. His talent is truly
something to be appreciated.
The
lead-off track, "Sons Of Beaches," which is much more than just a
play on words, is the perfect opener for this recording. Stewart knows how to
set up the listener and prepare them for what will come next. This is great
surf, rock, and instrumental music with a timeless quality.
The
album showcases Stewart's mastery of traditional surf instrumental music and
his ability to blend the sixties surf sound with the modern sounds of today.
That's why he decided to give you the best of both periods so that you can see
the value and appreciate where he came from and where he is now. Many men his
age would have disappeared years ago, but he keeps going.
I
have been enjoying this man's musical collaborations through my stereo system
and colorful conversations via phone and email for many years now. I hope that
it continues.
Keith
"MuzikMan" Hannaleck
May 19, 2001
Tracks:
1. Sons Of Beaches
2. Precision 1964
3. Precision 2000
4. Cimarron
5. Moonbeam
6. Moonbeam 2000
7. I Want To Love You
8. Sand Crab
9. Lonely By The Sea 1965
10. The Calm And The Storm
11. Cut Out 1964
12. Cut Out Y2K
13. Afterglow
14. Then And Now
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