Customer Reviews

Hit & Run

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

 

 

Here's the real deal. If you like Kenny Burrell, Jim Hall or Barney Kessell, you'll definitely want this in your collection too. Mr. Johnston and sidemen Bruce Barth, Joe Locke, Nat Reeves & Grady Tate whip up a swinging mix of standards and original tunes with a virtuoso flair that recalls the great jazz ensembles of the of the 50's and early 60's. An instant classic.

I bought this album around November 2002; I have listened to it every day ever since. Randy Johnston's fluid style of playing coupled with his amazing flow of ideas make this album an excellent listen. If you are looking for Jazz with a laid-back and incredibly loose feel then check out "Down Time", the first track on 'Hit and Run'. For those who admire good Hard-Bop, the title track displays Johnston's extemporaneous improvisatory style. On Another tune of interest, "The Hat Man", Johnston draws from 12-bar blues, adding some interesting harmonic variations.

Johnston also excels in technical virtuosity, and while he does not always play rapidly, he never wastes a single note on technique alone. His ability to "use technique in the service of music" is his main strong point.

There is also some incredible piano work by Bruce Barth on 'Hit and Run'. And excellent technical player, Barth uses improvisatory skills that will make one's head spin.

I would recommend this album to any Jazz listener, guitarist or not. Although there is no horn playing on the album, Joe Locke's vibes and Nat Reeves's precise Bass playing along with Grady Tate's tasteful studio drumming make this set of cuts a great addition to any collection!

I agree with the earlier reviewer. This is great jazz guitar. A pleasure to listen. Great tone, great taste. In reference to the other idiot reviewer, no one is claiming Randy Johnstan to be the greatest ever. He's damn good and this CD is well worth owning. Is Howard Paul better? Who cares, it's not a contest. Howard Paul is awesome, however, in the photo on the SevenStringJazz website, he is by far the worst guitarist on that stage. If he asks nicely, Howard Alden or Bucky Pizzarelli may let him carry their guitars to and from the car.

I agree with the two other positive reviews - this CD is fantastic! Johnston's technique on guitar is impressive! ??????????? Go to Savannah GA ???????????? sure!

Randy Jones is not the player I had been expecting. There are a lot better out there. Go to Savannah GA and hear the Howard Paul Trio to understand what jazz guitar can be.