Nikhil Korula’s Solo Sessions pairs contemporary folk music with elements of jazz and rock on five original, richly texturized songs. The guitarist also lends his stellar vocals and arrangements for the songs which feature such renowned musicians as Jeff Coffin and Butch Taylor (of Dave Matthews’ fame) on saxophone and keyboards respectively, alongside his core NK sextet. The set opens with “Spark” which blends various contemporary Americana traditions with a jazzy rhythm that you can definitely groove to. On this song, Korula’s lead vocals harken back to some of the more notable alternative indie rock/jam band songs as sung by Jakob Dylan and The Wallflowers. “He Said, She Said” is a mixture of progressive folk, jazz, and blues. The song features Jeff Coffin’s expressive soprano saxophone comps underlining Korula’s sensitive vocals. This is a beautiful song and easily captures the listeners’ attention due to the interesting story behind the song. “Broken Roads” is the centerpiece of the recording. Nikhil Korula shines on this song and it also features an excellent keyboard solo by Butch Taylor. This great song brings back memories of The Allman Brothers and Hootie and the Blowfish in their heydays and is surely indicative of Korula’s influences.  “Silent Tears” a slowly unfurling, darkly tinged, bittersweet ballad, reveals Korula’s guitar filling and weaving through Taylor’s piano lines with expert technique.  The set concludes with “Fade Away,” a strong showcase for the entire band but especially for Korula’s vocals which are inspired and delivered with exceptional skill. Overall, Solo Sessions is a fine follow up to Music Of The New Day and should solidify Nikhil Korula’s place on the contemporary folk jazz/indie rock scene.

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