Songs Without Words in an incredible album that showcases the many “voices” of the electric guitar. As he did on his 2017 release, Rural Renewal, Gerhard Daum composed all of the music and played all of the instruments (guitars, piano, and midi) as well as mixing and mastering the album. With his very extensive experience in writing music for films and television in both the US and Europe, it is no wonder that Daum’s recorded music tells such vivid and colorful stories. I loved Rural Renewal and feel exactly the same way about Songs Without Words! The album does not easily fit into any one genre - there are strong jazz and classical influences - and the twelve tracks on the album range from soulful slow dances to more powerful uptempo pieces. There isn’t a weak track on the album and the production quality is flawless - in other words, Songs Without Words is spectacular!

The album begins with “Berlin Song,” a silky-smooth piece with lots of strings behind the electric guitar - a great start! “Talking Softly” could be a romantic slow dance with guitar, percussion, bass and light orchestration moving gracefully with the sultry rhythms. “Gentleman’s Way” is a favorite. Dark and very intense, it packs an emotional punch! Going in almost the opposite direction, “All That Matters” is quieter but is also deeply emotional. “Gold Rush” has the sweep of the theme for an adventurous film. “Timeless” is almost the definition of “smooth jazz” with no hard edges, an easy-going tempo and pure listening pleasure. “Holding the Dream” cranks up the intensity with heartfelt passion - I love this one! “Going My Way” has a little more piano than some of the tracks along with strings, bass and percussion backing the guitars. “Told You So” is a bit jazzier with some toe-tapping attitude. As its title suggests, the dreamy “Walking On Clouds” is relaxed and blissful - don’t try to wake up to this one! “The Early Passion” is my favorite piece on the album. Sensuous and very free, it has a high chill factor! Love it! “My Foolish Heart” ends this excellent album with a spirit of warm optimism.

Songs Without Words is a winner from the first note to the last! It is available from Amazon, iTunes, CD Baby and many streaming sites. Check it out!