Saturday, March 13, 2021

Daniel Thatcher - Waterwheel (April 30, 2021 Shifting Paradigm Records)

With his debut recording as a bandleader, Daniel Thatcher not only assembles an ensemble brimming with exceptional musicianship, but also puts forth his distinct voice as a fresh and thoughtful composer. This release, due out on Shifting Paradigm Records in April 2021, features Daniel’s band Waterwheel, a quartet consisting of guitarists John Kregor and Matt Gold, and drummer Devin Drobka. Together they weave a musical tapestry which exemplifies qualities that define Daniel and his bandmates both musically and personally: supportive, creative, selfless, and open.

The band derives its name from a reference to the Microcosmic Orbit, a pair of meridians or energy lines that store Qi, relevant to Tai Chi and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Qi is considered vital energy, an invisible force which animates, brings into balance, and heals.

Everything in the world is made up of it and it is within every one of us. Daniel’s music is inspired by and reflects this life-affirming force.

1. Odds are Even
2. Three Sages
3. Albedo
4. Viscous
5. Let's Grow Old Together
6. Big Ben
7. Im Alpental
8. Lady of the Lake
9. Naturally (bonus)
10. The Feast is Forward (bonus)

Daniel Thatcher - bass, compositions
John Kregor - guitar
Matt Gold - guitar
Devin Drobka - drums