Legendary French guitarist Pierre Bensusan was actually born in Algeria but has lived in Paris since age four. At age 17, he signed his first record deal and released his 1975 debut album, Près de Paris, described as an acoustic guitar tour de force. After making a name for himself in the late 1970s as a folk musician, he began to incorporate jazz and classical elements into his music. I remember first hearing his virtuosic, original and impressionistic improvisations about 1982 on his brilliant Rounder Records release called Solilai.

A few decades later, Bensusan’s 15th album Azwan is one that underscores the oneness of our world and humanity’s interlocked connectivity with all people, animals and nature.  Bensusan’s music helps others, nurtures their creativity, provides healing, and supports those dealing with difficult challenges. Perhaps that’s why he facetiously named one of his compositions “Optimystical.” While the music on this album can evoke a city, place, or mood, he also says he’s been contemplating the music for years before actually recording it. He’s taken time to allow all the notes to come together as one, along with some occasional ethereal vocalization to allure, transfix and transport listeners. While primarily a solo guitar album, Azwan also features guests Stephane Kerecki (bass on two tracks, “Fils de la Rose” and “Dia Libre”), Jean-Marie Ecay (nylon string guitar on “Balkangeles”), and Christophe Cravero (alto and violin on “Dia Libre”).  

One of the greatest acoustic guitar players of the 21st century,  Pierre Bensusan’s sound paintings utilize hues of world, new age, jazz, classical, traditional, folk and pop music with French, Arabic, Latin and Celtic cultural references.  Azwan presents hope, optimism and is a contemplative, yet clarion, call for the world to unite, share kindness and collaborate for the greater good. (Joe Ross, Roots Music Report)