Look East by Gary Tu

I'll admit to somewhat glossing over “The Cube” the first couple of times through, but upon repeated listening this original tune has won me over with its toughness and tight changes and it is now one of my favorites. If there is a “hit single” on the album it is subsequent “The Road to the Sky” where Tu adds in some tasteful effects, soloing over a catchy pop/jazz progression. “Sun Rise,” on the other hand, is a sunny piece where Tu shows his skills in a bossa setting; while “Passing Solitude” is an exemplary example of quietude and economy in playing.

In a clever twist, the second half of “Look East” is filled with jazz classics that were not originally guitar-based tunes. An up-tempo, somewhat Brazilian version of Steve Swallow's “Falling Grace,” and Sonny Rollins' beloved “Airegin” are both presented in wonderful guitar-centric arrangements - the former again embellished with Tu's sparkling chimes, the latter in a delightfully hot session that may be the highlight of the album. Finally, the Frank Foster waltzing standard “Simone” is caressed beautifully, before Tu and the band (especially drummer Beasley) go out in high style with an ecstatic version of Miles Davis' “Milestones.”

A clever and pleasing guitarist, Tu is a nice change up from an atmosphere filled with guitarists who want to be the next Al Dimeola. He obviously realizes that good tunes and good playing are a nice combination to strive for, and he succeeds quite well in this first solo venture. “Look East” is a worthy addition to your jazz collection, as well as leading one to keep a watch on this artist as his career progresses. - jazzchicago.net

”Gary Tu has a more traditional Jazz guitar sound on [Look East]. With a solid and unobtrusive bass and drum accompaniment, Tu works through 5 originals before he gets to a very fresh and clever selection of covers. He has a clear, crisp tone, without any fusion or rock effects, and he's a fine one-note picker, adept at finding new melodies. And he swings. While he likes to use harmonics, they are very tasteful and never overdone. Covering Rollins' “Airegin” is clever, and he does it without bringing to mind Jim Hall. And there is a pretty take on Steve Swallow's “Falling grace.” Largely Tu stays away from tunes that were originally guitar based, which makes the collection fun. On a programming note, it might have been better overall if he had mixed his own compositions in with the standards. But [Look East] is a solid Jazz guitar recording.” -Cadence Magazine

”2 out of 3 stars!” -Jazzwise Magazine UK

”There’s no denying Gary Tu is a talented jazz guitarist, and when joined by a bassist and drummer for the nine cuts of Look East, the trio offers a pleasant listening experience.” -Illinois Entertainer

”...Be confident at your craft and make creating good music your goal. Gary Tu has done both. He plays guitar with the confidence and skill of guitarists like Wes Montgomery and Charlie Christian and he has created a beautiful body of work, Look East.” -ABYSSJazz Magazine

”Tu's 2006 CD, Look East is a very cool instrumental jazz guitar album in the finest spirit of guitar greats like Pat Metheny, Mike Stern and Bill Frisell...Tu turns in a timeless guitar performance that ably combines mood and technique and some splendid improvisation.” -20TH CENTURY GUITAR

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