---

By: Chris Van Loan (Associate Writer)
2002-05-10

Artist: Jen Chapin/Stephan Crump
Title: Open Wide
Genre: Jazz

It wasn't until I was listening to the third track of this CD that it hit me - the only instrumentation on this recording from bassist Stephan Crump and vocalist Jen Chapin was voice and bass.

This somewhat daring collage of Jazz and Folk sensibilities entitled "Open Wide" simmers and slides through the plentiful open spaces like a lone kite dancing and darting through the skyline of a clear day. My favorite song is the wistful "Hurry up Sky", I find myself playing it over and over again.

Simple yet sublime bass lines support a natural and strong yet light vocal style. Stephan's percussive approach to the acoustic bass drives the groove in the places where a drummer would usually lay down a beat and Jen's vocals sways to the groove and ties the individual elements into one (a fitting effect since this duo is also a married couple).

The end result is heartfelt music perfect for quiet, contemplative moments. There are a few rare moments where a small Jazz ensemble could probably have helped paint the musical canvas of this record but overall "Wide Open" is a beautiful artistic endeavor.