Self-taught guitarist/composer Gilbert Isbin was born in Knokke on May 29, 1953. He’s probably one of the best kept secrets in Belgian jazz.
After playing lute and baroque music for quite a while, his love for European improvised music and jazz prevailed. Especially Paul Bley’s minimalistic approach, the introspective playing of Bill Evans and the compositions by Cuban master Leo Brouwer influenced him a lot. Thru’ the years he built up his very personal style that is marked by strong melodies and subtle, inventive playing.
‘Spring Cleaning’, Gilbert’s first album for the Jazz’halo label, illustrates what a fine composer and guitar player he is. Working with such great musicians as Cameron Brown, Chris Joris, John Ruocco and Steve Houben finally gave him the opportunity to record his compositions in the best possible way.
Jos Demol
1. Spring cleaning
2. Fresh breath
3. Troubled
4. Free flight to A'dam
5. Wawacou
6. Warm your heart
7. Why was that?
8. Wintertime
9. Here, my dear
10. Lift your feet
11. Buzz
Gilbert Isbin: classical and electric guitars
Cameron Brown: double bass
John Ruocco: tenor sax, alto clarinet and clarinet
Steve Houben: flute
Chris Joris: miscellaneous percussion and berimbau
Mark Van Overmeire: drums on (7)
Recorded at STUDIO FIELDS, Braine-l’Alleud (Belgium), May 19 & 20 and June 22, 1992 by Didier de Roos
