Carl Dewhurst releases new album "Avicennia" in Australia

Australian guitarist Carl Dewhurst has released a new album titled "Avicennia," showcasing his unique musical style. Dewhurst is known for his versatility and has been a significant figure in Australian music for over 30 years. The album features Dewhurst's current trio, including longtime collaborator Cameron Undy on bass and drummer Alex Inman-Hislop. Saxophonist Lisa Parrott, who has returned to Australia after many years in New York, joins them as a guest musician. Dewhurst and Parrott have a musical history dating back to 1993 when they performed together in a band called NUDE. "Avicennia" explores Dewhurst's original compositions and includes a reinterpretation of Charlie Parker's classic "Ornithology." The music is characterized by complex rhythms and melodies, differing from his previous work with NUDE. Although most of the album has a subtle tone, it maintains a sense of tension through unexpected meter changes. Some tracks feature the trio format, while others benefit from the addition of Parrott's saxophone, which adds emotional depth to the music. Interestingly, Dewhurst primarily uses the same guitar sound throughout the album, despite having access to various textures and effects. Some tracks, like "Drainpipe Blue," seem to call for a more aggressive musical contrast, but the overall restraint may be a deliberate artistic choice in a world often focused on excess.