Search - Steve Kimock :: Eudemonic

Eudemonic, one point in time for the Steve Kimock Band

J. Hargraves | Massachusetts | 09/15/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Steve Kimock Band (SKB) is an evolutionary musical vehicle for guitarist Steve Kimock and drummer Rodney Holmes. Long time listeners know that SKB thrives on improvisational live performances characterized by extended interplay among an everchanging set of extraordinary musicians. Eudemonic is a studio recording that documents one incarnation of SKB that included Alphonso Johnson (bass) and Mitch Stein (more guitar).



This album is a perfect introduction to Kimock. Eudemonic contains the essence of nine compositions by Kimock and/or Holmes. The standout track is The Bronx Experiment. This composition demonstrates the range of SKB's use of instrumentation and melodic themes.



Steve has spent his career perfecting guitar technique and tone. Fans know that live performance is the best way to enjoy the Steve Kimock Band. Quality recordings of these performances can be downloaded from either DigitalSoundboard.net or the Live Music Archive (http://www.archive.org/audio/etree.php). These recordings contain the music as well as audience participation. The studio album contains just the music. So, the trade off is between longer explorations of compositions with improvisation and crowd noise or a tight, studio recording with just the music. Eudemonic is not to be missed."

Producing happiness and well-being.

Andrew J. Felt | 08/23/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album is amazing. The skill with which everything has been crafted and made into something much more than the sum of it's parts reflects the Steve Kimock composes music. The artwork, pictures and color scheme blend together in a very intentional way. Even the "Thanks" section seems to be there not because it's always there, but because the band wanted to thank the special people in their lives.



The songs are jaw-drpooing. No single lick perfectly exemplifies the disk...yet every piece belongs. Not shouting for itself, rather paving the way for the next to come. The songs manage to perform this impressive balancing act by a means seemingly beyond explination, but well within comprehension.



Steve Kimock is the namesake of the band, but not always the focus. Every member feeds each other. Groovin to the lead guitar is very enjoyable, but only listening to that means you're missing the best interaction on the disk. The rhythm, bass, keys and drums all take their turns in the spotlight shining brightly enough to pass on the light to whoever finds it next.



Eudemonic is an experience. It is nothing more than what it is."

Beautiful...

Ophidiophile | 09/06/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is just a beautiful aural soundscape and a great example of why fans of Kimock just keep coming back for more "K-Waves". The song versions are different than what Kimock fans are used to live, but one shouldn't expect a studio disc to sound live. The disc manages to showcase Steve Kimock's virtuoso playing and dedication to flow and tone extremely well. My favorites are an exploratory "Ice Cream," the middle-eastern sounding "Bronx Experiment" played on the Octave Mandolin, and just a gorgeous "In Reply." But every cut on this disc is right on. Play it loud, listen carefully, and you won't be disappointed."