8.14.2010

CD REVIEW: Kyle Hollingsworth "Then There's Now"

Then There's Now
The jam band world wouldn't be the same without a lot of things, one of them being the presence of The String Cheese Incident. Since announcing they'd go on a bit of a hiatus, Kyle Hollingsworth, the band's keyboardist, decided to get into the studio to lay down some tracks for his second solo release. The album is a bit of a departure from his day job, but the music still has the same elements and qualities of what makes great jam band rock. Of course, the album is keyboard heavy, and the production quality is a bit more than just organic, but that is what make it great. He has decided not to make a SCI album, and that makes for an interesting take on his own personal style, influences, and experiences. The album is full of genre bending with elements of jazz, pop, hip hop, and rock sprinkled throughout, making for and interesting and musical journey. Hollingsworth still can't forget his musical roots, and this solo release showcases just how necessary he is as a member of SCI and how excellent a musician he can be on his own.