CD review: ‘B.E.L.L.’ by Rob Tardik
In my life I have come to the conclusion that Balance, Energy, Laughter, and Love are the key ingredients in leading a rewarding and fulfilling life on every level. I strive for these in mine, albeit not perfect at times, I do my very best every day. - Rob Tardik (“B.E.L.L.”)
Last year, when I reviewed “The Right Time,” Rob Tardik’s second release, I thought that it could not get any better. Well, after listening to “Balance. Energy. Laughter. Love” (“B.E.L.L.”), I am happy to report that I was wrong. Tardik did it again.
There is something very endearing about this artist. He has an appetite for life that permeates his entire body of work and gives him the ability to reinvent himself whenever he chooses to. And with “B.E.L.L.”, Tardik seems to have reached a state of complete creative freedom.
This album is what I would like to call his tour de force. Anybody familiar with his music will definitely recognize his enticing signature sound. However, “B.E.L.L.” has a different energy from “The Right Time.” There seems to be more passion, a greater desire to push musical boundaries. And the variety of genres is definitely a plus.
One of the best tracks on the album is none other than the eponymous piece from his previous release. The song gets a new flavour with the exquisite addition of Francois Mulder’s very Michael Buble-like vocals. Mulder can also be heard on another track, titled “When It Comes to Lovin’ You.”
Tardik has collaborated with some highly respected artists on this CD, including Grammy winner Paul Brown, and contemporary jazz stars like Darren Rahn, Warren Hill, Jaared and Gabriel Mark Hasselbach. The result is a series of discussions between instruments that complement one another beautifully and harmoniously.
Whether you enjoy Latin-inspired tunes, contemporary jazz, pop, world, or lounge music, “B.E.L.L.” is for you. The album is a feast for the ears and a treat for the mind.
More about “B.E.L.L.”
Release date: 2011
Genre: Contemporary Jazz
Produced by Rob Tardik and Davor Jordanovski
Engineered by Davor Jordanovski
Track listing:
1. East Meets Wes
2. The Right Time
3. Kimberley’s Song
4. Shakin’s the House
5. When It Comes to Lovin’ You
6. Frolic
7. La Buena Vida (The Good Life)
8. Sunday Morning
9. Smile
10. Blue Midnight
11. Waiting for Love
12. Corazón Contento (Happy Heart)
The CD is available for purchase on Tardik’s website, iTunes,CDBaby and Amazon.
About Rob Tardik
Rob Tardik is one of Ontario’s most prominent independent artists. This award-winning guitarist has shared the stage with legends like Phil Ramone, Greg Adams, Paul Brown, Peter White, Liberty Silver, David Sanborn, and Jose Feliciano.
Tardik was named Mississauga’s 2007 “Established Performer of the Year” for his musical contributions, an award won previously by Oscar Peterson and Rik Emmett. In 2010, he became a recipient of the Canadian Smooth Jazz Guitarist of the Year Award.
“B.E.L.L.” is his third release, after “Without Words” and “The Right Time.”
For more information on Rob Tardik, visit www.robtardik.com.