Desde Mi Corazón / Desde Mi Corazon

The no frills packaging, weird impressionistic cover art, and small label existence might hurt the chances of this powerfully exotic, acoustic guitar-based collection that blends percussive Latin grooves, Brazilian, pop, and jazz improvisation around reasonably catchy melodies. This is definitely a player's album, and Sumner has no problem giving way at times so his supporting staff can wail, as on the powerful drum fills and bouncy percussion between slick guitar passages on "Return to Tropic Zone." "Clearing Skies" is a playful little samba with a rolling electric line that brings Pat Metheny to mind. There are loads of action-packed moments here, and some extremely deft speed playing, but Sumner's heartfelt side is equally impressive, with his graceful melody on "Good Night Little Darling" playing like a sweet dedication in a Cantina. Other tunes like the title track and the slow burning "Low Tide" create moody atmospheres that balance the early manic behavior.