Guitarist David Cullen and oboist Jill Haley make a superb team and the tunes presented on EXPLODING COLORS are testament to their musical simpatico. This release combines soothing New Age sounds with folksy acoustic guitar and, on occasion, a jazzy harmonic twist.

EXPLODING COLORS bursts with romanticism. The guitar work on "Vacation Conversation" is reminiscent of Pat Metheny's playing. Here, Cullen's chords are flowery yet dissonant and Haley's melody floats effortlessly over it. The title track "Exploding Colors" sees Cullen spicing things up with some tasty fretless bass. All the while, Haley's oboe flutters high into the stratosphere. Her oboe skills are best represented on "Chautauqua Morn," a pastoral tune that blends beautiful finger picking with an elegant woodwind refrain. "High Country Waltz" once again sees Haley's oboe dancing in the clouds. EXPLODING COLORS is a fluid, graceful, and vibrant release.