R e c o r d i n g s
Things Eternal
Mack Avenue, Brother Mister Productions
On his fourth album as a leader, Things Eternal, Wilson takes stock of the lessons learned from each of those rich sources, ensuring that their legacy lives on through him even as some of them pass on. In recent years the guitarist has lost both of his grandparents along with one of his key mentors, the legendary organist Joey DeFrancesco, whose sudden death in 2022 was mourned throughout the jazz world. Then his father suffered a massive stroke just three days before the birth of the guitarist’s second child; he’s on the mend, but it’s been an arduous path. All this, of course, in the midst of a global pandemic.
His wide-ranging tastes are reflected on the artfully curated repertoire for Things Eternal, which includes songs by The Beatles, Stevie Wonder and Sting alongside jazz classics by the likes of McCoy Tyner, Freddie Hubbard, Michael Brecker and Herbie Hancock, as well as a song by hometown favorite Phillip K. Jones II.
The album’s two Wilson originals both reflect on its central theme in unique ways. “Since a Hatchet Was a Hammer” was a phrase he heard from his then 97-year-old Aunt Mary, who he says was “outspoken for nearly a century.” Her undimmed spirit and keen insight are both reflected in the guitarist’s determined tribute.
The title track was inspired by a vivid fever dream that Wilson had shortly after losing his grandmother and features wistful lyrics sung by Jessica Yafanaro over Glenn Zaleski’s dreamlike Fender Rhodes.
The title of Things Eternal is extracted from the hymn “Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand,” in which Wilson found solace during these trying times.
Vessels of Wood and Earth
Mack Avenue, Brother Mister Productions
On this album Dan draws from his roots in gospel music, Motown, and the jazz tradition. The title, Vessels of Wood and Earth, stems from a bible verse in First Corinthians that highlights the importance of foundational elements, rather than external forces.
About half of the songs on the record are original compositions, including The Rhythm Section, Juneteenth, The Reconstruction Beat, and Who Shot John.
BALANCING ACT
On June 23, 2017 Dan recorded his second album LIVE at BLU Jazz+. Dan shared the stage with some of the most talented, world-class musicians including Sullivan Fortner on piano, Ivan Taylor on bass, Xavier Breaker on drums, and Akron's own, Sam Blakeslee on trombone.
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
To Whom It May Concern is a product of an intense study of many different musical styles and concepts. It was recorded in a year's time, with the help of many creative musicians and with the support of many dedicated and generous patrons. The album showcases the immense talent harbored in the Northeast Ohio and Pittsburgh areas. The purpose of recording this album is to share musical ideas with the public and to share the results of the creative process. Hopefully, this music will be heard and enjoyed by listening ears far and wide. Download or purchase your copy today!
