Customer Reviews

Heartstrings

5 star:		(10)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

The songs are stunning, Russell's tone is lush and warm, and for those who have trouble with orchestral treatments in jazz, the orchestra seems to float in the background simply supporting the music rather than overpowering it. An instant classic.

Well, I have to say that I both aggree and disagree with the previous reviewer. I you are a looking for a CD of more uptempo swinging jazz tunes, then yes, get another Russell Malone CD. Or, if you are looking for a CD of heartfelt ballads with the signature stunning touch of virtousity that Russell Malone adds with his flawless guitar technique and wonderful sense of harmony, then get this CD......It is what it is, an excellent CD of ballads with strings to accompany Russell's incrediable guitar........A must for any Russell Malone fan, or Jazz guitarist!!!!!!

This is a great cd, undoubtedly. His ballad songs are great and are honestly touching. However, when I bought this album, I was expecting at least one fast song that had an extraodinary 'typical' Russell Malone solo. I got this album after Sweet Georgia Peach and Some Of My Best Friends Are Guitarists. In the middle of that he transitioned from the ballad to a more upbeat tempo. That's what I was looking forward to. However, it turned out to be slow, but GREAT just the same. It taught me that songs don't necessarily need to be fast in order to be good. However, I am deducing one star (because not one of them was fast and after a while it got a little repetitious and boring. Take note: Each song if you listen to just one at a time, not one after another are great, but after over and over for ten songs in a row...let's say it gets a little repetitious.

1. Sweet Georgia Peach (Ron Carter (b),Kenny Barron (p), Louis Nash (d), Russell Malone (g)) Great songs and great interaction between soloists and comping. Very upbeat songs.
2. Bluebird (Benny Green (p), Russell Malone (g)) Nice soloing and nice time, shows their skill and how they don't need a drummer to keep time.

P.S Please Check Out My Reviews On The Recommended CDs!

Malone conjures a series of relaxing jazz tunes. I tend to play this album late at night whilst busy doing some other chores! Malone is good company - very smooth, and reminiscent of Charlie Haden & Pat Metheny in 'beyond the Missouri Sky'. Enjoyable album!

I have taught guitar and played for almost 40 years. In my opinion, this album is a beautiful representation of what I believe it wanted to be- a caring tribute to two very soulful and dear souls- milt jackson and stanley turrentine- I have never met Mr Malone but -if he reads this - in my opinion- I think they are both smiling ,from the beauty of your swing.

As a jazz guitarist you always listen for what you can learn from someone, what they do well and not well. Russell is an amazing talent when it comes to chord melody playing. His voicings, along with slick tricks using harmonics makes for a beautiful addition to the standard approach to playing jazz guitar chord melody. What makes this CD difficult to listen to is his playing in time or with the rhythm section. His lines are mostly un inventive and have a very awkward feel. It does not have the feel of say, Grant Green or George Benson. It sounds as if his picking is not worked out well and subtracts from the over all rhythmic feel of the music. I would love to hear a record of just solo guitar from this artist!

THE CD IS SO BEAUTIFUL AND RELAXING I REALLY ENJOY RUSSELL'S PLAYING I PLAY THIS CD OVER AND OVER AND NEVER GROW TIRED OF IT. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK RUSSELL

To speak adequately of Malone and Heartstrings one would have to
elicit the use of a Webster's dictionary of superlatives. It's just that good and better. It will give you a tummy tickling experience.The emotions he evokes on each piece is so soulful and equally senstive as his fingers demonstrate. I find it difficult for me to single any one piece for review as they are all beyond superb. Definitely music to listen to with that significant other as it is mellow, soothing and laid back.

Truly lovely music, Technically smooth and artistic. I have listened to this cd for years and never tire of it. I bought this one for a friend.

This work is superb. What about me is the best track , but every song is first rate. The sound of his guitar is velvet and smooth , supported by fine strings who carry you inmediatly to new landscapes.
A real triumph of this great artist. An excellent buy and an eternal reward for this album.