I have just discovered Peter Queal’s latest album of music, HUMILITY , featuring thirteen songs, mostly original compositions, in the jazz and world music traditions.
Regarding this project, Peter writes:
This music is about events in my life that I’ve experienced through travel, relationships and situations that have led me to a realization that the best of life is experienced through an ever stronger awareness of the meaning of humility. I believe humility can lead us to the keenest realization of the truths that make up reality. Herein are the results of skills learned over the span of 50+ years of musical awareness and creativity. There is a lot of vocal and instrumental improvisation on this record, some of it transcribed from recordings by greats such as Wes Montgomery and Bruce Forman and much by myself. I invite you to share in the fruits of my quest for musical and artistic knowledge in the sonic and poetic mediums. I have a strong desire to epitomize humility by learning and sharing. Enjoy!
Why I love Peter’s album
I love this album for lots of reasons, but mostly, because it has a very worldly feel with lush vocals, tight harmonies and beautiful guitar work. Peter has spent his life getting to know his instrument and plays masterfully with a mixture of power and finesse. He has added percussion tracks including bells, shakers and congas. His vocals are honest and immediate completely in-keeping with the lyrics. Peter sings like he means it. The harmonies of “Somony” are rich and luscious while his jazz improvisation on “Blues With a Feeling” is spot-on.
Some cuts tend to the world music tradition, and “Ominous Weather” features Paul Taylor on didjeridoo while others are more straight-ahead blues and jazz. I especially love his version of the Rogers and Hart classic, “Falling in Love with Love,” and “Blues with a Feeling” which he wrote with his friend and fellow musician, Curt Landes. It’s so totally hip, a jazzy/bluesy tune that really grooves.
Regional Recognition
Humility was a finalist among listener picks for best Wyoming/Regional album of 2015.
Where you can hear Peter play live
I am truly honored to have the opportunity to play with Peter in my group, JRQ. In addition, Peter plays solo along the front range and Wyoming. He is a frequent guest at Jay’s Bistro in Fort Collins, Colorado the home Mark Sloniker’s fabulous jazz group. Peter also plays with the John Mills orchestra based out of Greeley.
Where you can find Humility
You can hear samples and order the album on CD Baby. It is also available on Spotify and through The Microsoft Store.
Here’s a link to Peter’s website.
Jane