The Undiscovered: Dave Caudle

Night Passions is a brand-new jazz CD from North Carolina multi-instrumentalist Dave Caudle. In addition to some sweet, smooth guitar work in the style of Pat Metheny and Pat Martino, Caudle plays bass, keyboards and programs the drum and percussion tracks. He is supported on Night Passions by some exemplary musicians, namely Dave Zeltner on piano and Ziad Rabie on alto saxophone. Caudle is also a very capable soloist, as he delivers fluid single-note runs on "Only You", and Benson-like, fast electric lines on "Capasa Rio!". Fans of the above jazz artists will find Night Passions makes for some great listening.

Dave began playing guitar at the age of seven and through the influence of his brother, played the music of Deep Purple, Grand funk and other '70s groups in a variety of high school bands. Over time Dave discovered the music of Frank Zappa, which led to his first exposure to jazz music of any kind. The record that finally steered Dave towards a love of jazz guitar was George Benson's "Breezin'". Impressed by Benson's phrasing and tone, Dave sought out more music by Benson and other artists such as Wes Montgomery, Joe Pass and Pat Martino. Dave was able to further his musical education at the University of Miami's School of Music in 1980, where the synergy of meeting other talented musicians took his technique to the next level.

A failed record deal with the ITI label in 1990, which included a never-released album called "To The Top", led to the eventual recording of Night Passions. Caudle promises much more music in the future, as his persistence and passion have carried him to the point he is at today--pursuing his first love.

David B. Caudle
United States

Web site: www.soundview.com/davecaudle