Jake Shimabukuro

Once in a while, an artist comes along who possesses such obvious, raw talent that it is undeniable. Jake Shimabukuro is one such musician.

There is a real, tangible skill level achieved here, and this CD is simply a man and his music, with no slickly produced or manufactured riffs. "Piano Forte" and "Bach Two" showcase beautiful expression, while keeping it simple and basic. And "Let's Dance" is an absolute marvel, as his fingers push the strings to their absolute limits without sounding too much like just scales and not enough like a musical composition.

Also included on this live recording is a totally brilliant version of Michael Jackson's "Thriller," played on the ukelele ? an unlikely combination to say the least, and not many can pull it off, but it is accomplished almost effortlessly here.

But the highlight of highlights is a cover of the Beatles' "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" that is so joyful and exuberant, and such an unexpected delight it will leave you smiling. Shimabukuro is enormously gifted, and it shows here again and again, with flashes of genius at every turn. This is a keeper.