Record Reviews

GRANT GEISSMAN ~ BLOOZ FUTURISM 2765 (Barcode: 899653002765) ~ USA ~ Smooth Jazz Recorded: 2022 Released: 2022 This is an album by veteran American guitarist / composer Grant GeissmanFind albums by this artist, recoded with many well-known Jazz / Blues musicians, like trumpeter Randy BreckerFind albums by this artist, pianists David GarfieldFind albums by this artist and Russell FerranteFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Tom ScottFind albums by this artist, guitarists Robben FordFind albums by this artist, Josh SmithFind albums by this artist, Joe BonamassaFind albums by this artist and John JorgensonFind albums by this artist, as well as a rhythm section comprising of keyboardist Jim CoxFind albums by this artist, bassist Trey HenryFind albums by this artist and drummer Ray BrinkerFind albums by this artist and a few others. The album presents twelve original compositions, all by the leader. The music is all Smooth Jazz oriented, with a Blues tinge but not really Blues in the classic meaning of the idiom. It is all very well played, with no risks taken, and the presence of the invited guests is not able to infuse any real fire. Geissman is obviously a very professional guitar player, and shows his chops along the way, but his compositions are quite forgettable and although pleasant on the ear, leave no lasting impression. Overall, this is a nice Smooth Jazz album, with some good guitar parts and a Bluesy feel, which might be great for driving, but calling it “Blooz” is misleading in the least.

Updated: 29/10/2022Posted: 29/10/2022

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

JOHN KLEMMER ~ FINESSE / MAGNIFICENT MADNESS WOUNDED BIRD 0197 (Barcode: 664140019720) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1980 - 1983 Released: 2005 Brilliant American saxophonist John KlemmerFind albums by this artist is one of the most versatile and talented Jazz players in the last few decades. His initial influence was the saxophone legacy of John ColtraneFind albums by this artist and to this date he is one of the best post-Coltrane players around, but his career found him playing in many different settings ranging from Free-Jazz to Smooth-Jazz. However, regardless of the musical environment, Klemmer´s saxophone playing is always beyond reproach and his improvisational skills are breathtaking, as is his amazing tone on tenor saxophone and the echoplex electric saxophone, which he introduced into Jazz. He is also a brilliant composer and his lyrical melodies are among the finest out there. "FinesseFind albums with this title" was Klemmer´s 4th and last album for the ElektraFind albums on this label label and it comprises of his original compositions, played by a wonderful quintet with keyboardist Russell FerranteFind albums by this artist, bassist Bob MagnussonFind albums by this artist, drummer Roy McCurdyFind albums by this artist and percussionist Steve FormanFind albums by this artist. "Magnificent MadnessFind albums with this title" was his 1st album on Elektra and includes covers as well as his original compositions. Although on the lighter side of Jazz, these two albums include quite amazing musicianship and Klemmer´s saxophone sound can melt ice any time. Recommended to listeners, who enjoy good melodic Jazz, which does not compromise the music quality and does not cross over to elevator music.

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

JOHN KLEMMER ~ HUSH WOUNDED BIRD 0527 (Barcode: 664140052727) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1981 Released: 2008 Brilliant American saxophonist John KlemmerFind albums by this artist is one of the most versatile and talented Jazz players in the last few decades. His initial influence was the saxophone legacy of John ColtraneFind albums by this artist and to this date he is one of the best post-Coltrane players around, but his career found him playing in many different settings ranging from Free-Jazz to Smooth-Jazz. However, regardless of the musical environment, Klemmer´s saxophone playing is always beyond reproach and his improvisational skills are breathtaking, as is his amazing tone on tenor saxophone and the echoplex electric saxophone, which he introduced into Jazz. He is also a brilliant composer and his lyrical melodies are among the finest out there. This was Klemmer´s 2nd album for the Elektra label and it comprises of his original compositions, played by a wonderful ensemble, which includes keyboardist Russell FerranteFind albums by this artist, guitarists Larry CarltonFind albums by this artist and Lee RitenourFind albums by this artist, bassist Abe LaborielFind albums by this artist, drummer Harvey MasonFind albums by this artist and many more great players. Klemmer´s playing is inspired and wonderfully romantic and the album is superbly produced. Recommended to listeners, who enjoy good melodic Jazz, which does not compromise the music quality and does not cross over to elevator music. Visitors' Comments Christopher  Brice I thought that I remembered enjoying this album 20+ years ago, and the first track matched my memory (and Adam´s praise) but I have to say that when the vocals came in (and there are quite a few vocal tracks in different styles) that they seemed to me pretty cheesey and put the CD firmly on my list labelled "how do I get rid of these discs that I will never listen to again?"

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend