The lights are low. The fireplace is crackling. The candles are lit. The wine is poured (though we don't condone drinking on the information superhighway or any other highway, for that matter).

Something is missing, however. You know, that finishing touch to set the perfect mood.

Unless speed metal somehow chills you out, Laid Back by multi-instrumentalist Doc Powell would be a very good choice.

Imagine jazzy, melodic guitar and sax floating effortlessly over funky but low-key grooves and dreamy keyboard patches. You get the general idea of what Powell is all about on this release.

While heavy hitters such as Stanley Clarke, Sheila E. and Marcus Miller contributed their creative abilities, the talented Powell recorded, arranged and produced every note. In addition to his ethereal lead guitar work, Powell provided the aforementioned funky grooves on drums while dropping dreamy soundscapes into the mix on synth. He also penned eight of the 11 tracks.

The album opens with the hypnotic title track, which features intertwining lead lines complements of Powell and sax player Boney James. The tune melts into the next two songs, drawing you in and almost making you forget that your listening to music.

As the album progresses, Powell delves into some different stylistic directions. While many listeners might, for example, appreciate the "Baby Face-ish" R&B vocal tunes, this reviewer feels it detracts from the initial mood and apparent purpose of the record. It also makes Powell's music seem more commonplace and less original. This is certainly a matter of personal taste.

Regardless, guitarists will revel in the smooth tone of Powell's Gibson Howard Roberts Fusion, ES-335 and nylon string Chet Atkins CE. His playing is a lesson in restraint, and a lesson almost any player could stand to learn.

All in all, fans of good music should appreciate Powell's songwriting craft. Players should find inspiration in his ability to layer instruments and create the most impact from his instrumental palette. Good music to listen to while working, too.