I first heard of Ed Alleyne Johnson when he worked with Justin Sullivan and New Model Army on their 1989 "Thunder and Consolation" album (a brilliant, brilliant album, by the way, buy it too!). I didn't realize it was him at the time, but check out the song "Vagabonds" from that album, and you'll see Ed Alleyne Johnson meshing very well in a rock setting.
So when I saw New Model Army tour with "Impurity" (in 1991, was it really that long ago??), Ed also opened up for them. Just him and his electric violin on stage. To say I was amazed was a definite understatement! The sounds, rhythms and songs he was able to produce from a lone instrument was mesmerizing (and trust me, I don't impress easily at all). I remember him playing a cover of ""Smells Like Teen Spirit" and not even realizing that's what it was until near the end of the song...
It took me forever to find this album (hey, back in 1991 it was MUCH harder to find import CDs), but wow is it worth it. Wow. The other reviewers have said many of the same praises I would, so I'll only add this. Get it, from where ever you can.
Be warned that this would generally be classified as a 'classical' album, but it truly lifts that genre to a new level (no cliche intended). This CD always amazes people I know when I let them borrow it, and even more so when I tell them it is one person, playing one instrument, on one take. Yes, essentially live. Wow.
He has since put out a sequel "Electric Violin Concerto 2" which is available online at New Model Army's website (google it), and I highly recommend that one as well.
WARNING: Do NOT get any of his other CDs that feature his wife singing on bad, bad rock-type songs. The songs are mediocre at best, and her voice... well hopefully any kids will get the dad's talent. I bought all three after buying this one, and wish I could get my money back ...
This is an amazing display of artistry, and well worth the money and effort buying, so find it somewhere! This is definitely on both my wife's and my top-10 CD of ALL time (and I own over 2400 CDs).
