Between Green & Blue
If it looks like aPatrick O'Hearnalbum and sounds like a Patrick O'Hearn album, it must be...David Helpling. The O'Hearn influence is ever-present on Helpling's beautifully produced debut album, from the darkIndigohues of the album cover to the warm synthesizer textures and percussive rhythmic throb. And although it is blindfold-test close to O'Hearn, it is nevertheless a compelling debut. Helpling cranks up dramatic rhythms on "Stormchaser," and brings an Asian feel to the hypnotic grooves of "Share the Secret." Helpling has a unique melodic sensibility that will carry him into new territory. The signs are already there on this evocative and remarkably consistent album.--John Diliberto