Silhouette

Guitarist Chuck Loeb has worked in the contemporary jazz format as a solo artist, a member of Fourplay and with other ensembles, as well as a producer for hire. Here, on his 20th album, he offers up a rewarding and varied effort that alternates between several groups. Highlights include the bossa nova-ish “JT,” the funky and hard-charging “Lockdown” (featuring drummer Steve Gadd and bassist Will Lee), and the downright greasy “Stompin’,” where Loeb duels with his December 7 organ trio and saxophonist Andy Snitzer. While the standout Spanish ballad “Esta Tarde Vi Llover” features vocals by his wife, Carmen Cuesta, the family affair continues with a nice solo guitar and vocal from daughter Lizzie on “My One and Only Love,” and Loeb plays acoustic guitar on alongside his daughter Christina on ukulele for the closing tune, “Las Eras.” Throughout this potpourri of an album, Loeb is front and center with his unhurried solo lines and clear tone, making this a rewarding listen for fans and a nice overview of how versatile this guitarist really is.