Most Helpful Customer Reviews
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
2.0 out of 5 stars
The heart without the soul, May 14, 2008
This review is from: Rediscovering Lonnie Johnson (Audio CD)
I was happy to hear that a group of performers were creating a tribute to Lonnie Johnson, but I'm afraid the end result was a disappointment. If it sparks interest in Lonnie's life, music, and significant contribution to jazz and blues, the CD will have served him well. The performances are obviously well intentioned, but Geoff Muldaur only handles one vocal--he should have had them all. Singer Eddie Davis is painful to listen to, but guitarist Jef Lee Johnson is not. I wish I could embrace this release wholeheartedly, but there is plenty of the real thing available, from the classic sides of the 1920s, 30s and 40s to the post "rediscovery" recordings.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
This is how all concept albums should be approached and executed., April 6, 2008
This review is from: Rediscovering Lonnie Johnson (Audio CD)
I am very pleased with this album. Lonnie Johnson was so much more than just a blues musician. He was a great all-around musician, playing not only the gut-bucket guitar blues, but also intricate jazz with Satchmo and Eddie Lang. This album showcases that diverse history and ability, covering both genres.
Jef Lee Johnson's guitar playing is immaculate - definitely the highlight of the album, almost ghostly in bringing Lonnie's sound back to life. Blues Anatomy provide lush instrumentation and vocals that set this album apart from most new blues albums. Although I love straight-ahead blues, my one complaint about most albums is that there is too much of one sound. Not the case in Rediscovering Lonnie Johnson. It has an amazing balance and flow, carrying you from song to song through the entire album.
Hats off to producer Aaron Levinson for once again branding an album with his respect for great music and musical history. This is how all concept albums should be approached and executed.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
please lonnie, don't hurt us, April 1, 2008
This review is from: Rediscovering Lonnie Johnson (Audio CD)
the shortest poem ever recorded?
"Me, We" - Muhhammad Ali.
the shortest review ever on amazon?
rediscovering my love for this clairvoyant and timeless song writer;
rediscovering my respect for recordings produced with real (live) musicians;
rediscovering the truth, the history, the beauty;
rediscovering LONNIE JOHNSON
if you like real (good) music you are certain to love this one.
kudos good people that made this recordign!
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
|