Customer Reviews

Just Guitars: Microtonal Music for Guitar

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While I too have some criticisms, I can't imagine anyone having the time to do all the unique things that had to be done to realize this album and still have time to get every little thing perfect. This stands beyond many albums in terms of performance and artistry. It is unique and varied. It is definitely a bit jolting in terms of consistency, from the electric-sounding track 1, to the Partch, whereas the rest is more normal guitar playing. But it is all worthwhile. Schneider's singing may not sound like Partch, but his inflection and interpretation are suberb in terms of following the composer's intent. His playing is technically brilliant. It is not fair but to view this as an early recording in a basically yet-to-be-explored field. I hope this album inspires many to build on the ground that Schneider and a few others are working to lay down.

The reason this recording is important is because it has several important pieces which are on record for the first time, a few by Lou Harrison, a few by Harry Partch. The performances are technically excellent but some truly lack soul. The album is for the most part consistent until we reach the Harry Partch material which seems out of place (this is when it takes a turn and makes the listener cringe), John Schneider sings on the Harry Partch tracks, the singing is very sub-par. He sings about being a hobo and riding a train but the voice sounds far too crisp and clean. But it's hard to complain because these are their first time on record and our only way to hear them. You need to close your eyes and Imagine a gruff, hairy, hobo singing them. Also, the piece written by John Scheider feels a little too melodic and peaceful for this record. This disk has some great material on it, but purchase with an informed mind.