Customer Reviews

Finger Paintings

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This has always been one of my favorite disks -- a breakthrough for Klugh. I bought this album on vinyl when it first came out in he '70s, and later purchased the CD. It's truly magical ... to my ears its music never grows old or tiresome. The supporting group of musicians, including Dave Grusin, Lee Ritenour, and Steve Gadd, et al., are superb. This is Klugh at his very best!

Thanks to its uptempo, Spanish guitar style, "Dr. Macumba" stacks up as one of Klugh's most compelling compositions. Those who enjoy "Dr. Macumba" will most likely find "Cabo Frio" and "Jolanta" among the CD's highlights, as well. "Long Ago And Far Away" is a pleasant, thoughtful take on a James Taylor tune, while "Dance With Me" is an equally appropriate remake of the Orleans hit. For anyone who does not own any of Klugh's albums, "Finger Paintings" is a strong starting point.

This collection is an exemplary sample of this artist's technical as well artistic virtousity. These compositions have earned him many royalties as well as enriching Mr.Klugh artistically. Finger Paintings, Dr. Macumba, and the other compositions penned by Earl Klugh have achieved cult status. Though not not widely known by the general public, you have no doubt heard his music on television shows and elevators the world over. His playing has a Segovia-like ring that absorbs the listener in a subtle and mysterious manner. The special gold recordings may be just a gimmick to get you to pay extra for what essentially sounds like a regular CD, audiophiles notwithstang, I would go for the regular CD. But, if you have a $1500+ stereo and and nothing better to do with your money, then by all means, enjoy!!!

I had this in vinyl from the very day it went on sale.But in moving I lost it. I was so grateful to find the CD. Love it to death. Keep up the good work guys. Patrick

I bought this as a companion to my vinyl and UHQR MFSL copies from the 80s. It nearly duplicates the standard recording, but pales in comparison to the UHQR. It is slightly lacking in high end detail, and the life of the guitars is not as pronounced.
That being said, this is one of the best CD's I own, and can be played anywhere.
Excellent material and a very good reproduction.

My husband told me about Finger Paintings many years ago and we would hear music from it now and then over the years, but just recently decided to shop for the CD on line since we couldn't find it in any music stores. We enjoy it very much.

I'm not sure Earl Klugh ever topped Finger Paintings. Every track is a gem, from the funky "Keep Your Eye On The Sparrow" to the mellowest lyrical numbers. Some may say this is overproduced. I think it is gorgeous. Superficially this may resemble MUZAK in spots, with the strings and woodwinds, but Klugh communicates his heart through his playing. I don't play this disc often any more, but I haven't tired of it yet. It stands the test of time.

For the most part, the melodies are simply beautiful. Yes, the improvisation is virtuoso and harmonious, too. I have nothing but good feelings about this disc.

Dave Grusin is a "commerical" artist. I guess that means he writes music that appeals to a large audience. I can't find anything wrong with that, as long as it isn't at the expense of your soul. Grusin infuses his projects with an underlying gravitas, and this is no exception. The two Klugh albums preceding this release (the self-titled "Earl Klugh" and "Lining Inside Your Love") are also fine choices, but Finger Paintings tops them both.

We need more albums like Finger Paintings. The world is challenging enough. A lot of the music made today does not soothe the savage breast like it should. Earl Klugh's jazz relaxes and soothes, without triteness. *cough* Kenny G *cough*

This early classic from Earl Klugh is one of my favorite "smooth jazz" albums. Every track contains memorable melodies. The recording is very crisp.