  That Old Feeling Polka Dots and Moonbeams Exactly Like You But Not For Me In A Sentimental Mood Time After Time Alone Together Blues Among Friends I Thought About You Nobody Else But Me You Don't Know What Love Is What a joy it is to play music with musicians of the caliber that are on this recording. Hod O'Brien is one of the finest pianists I've ever heard. His formidable technique, impeccable taste, inventive jazz ideas and sensitivity to what the song is about are just a few of the reasons that Hod is a legend. He has shared the bandstand with Zoot Simms, Al Cohn, Freddie Hubbard, Stan Getz, Chet Baker, Phil Woods, Red Mitchell; the list goes on. The lines he weaves are beautiful and his mastery of the art of piano jazz is breathtaking. I am truly honored to have him performing on this recording. Hod's latest release is titled "So That's How It Is" and features Hod leading a swinging trio comprised of Ray Drummond and Kenny Washington. Additionally, if you find yourself enjoying the sparkling vocalise of Stephanie Nakasian, you may be fortunate enough to hear Hod accompanying her. Steve Gilmore is probably most well known for his longstanding association with Phil Woods. We had never met or played together until the first tune of the session and from the first few bars of "I Thought About You" it was evident that we were all going to have a good time. He brought an incredible amount of energy and creativity to this recording. He can play four notes and you can't help but swing. Steve has a marvelous way of playing a lyrical solo. For example, listen to his solo on "Nobody Else But Me". Sam "Seguito" Turner can often be found working his magic in New York City and has been heard with many musicians including Lionel Hampton, Randy Weston and Freddie Hubbard. With his percussive arsenal and gifted hands he produces beautiful layers of sound and rhythm. I'm grateful for his contributions to this recording. Brooks Tegler has been active in the Washington DC jazz scene for many years. He has shared the bandstand with some legendary jazz figures, including Milt Hinton, Frank Foster, Kenny Davern, Dan Barrett, Ken Peplowski, and Doc Cheatham. I've been enjoying Brooks' unerring sense of swing for a long time. His most recent release is titled "And Not Only That" and eatures Brooks and his terrific band Hot Jazz. Steve Abshire graciously consented to act as producer for this project. Fortunately, he also provided guitar background on some of these tracks. Steve has earned the respect of listeners everywhere with his straightforward guitar playing. With one blue note he can reach deep into a listener's heart. His playing always makes you feel good, and that's what this music is all about, isn't it? His humor, his talent and his heart were evident throughout this recording. The original concept of this album was to be only piano, bass and trombone; replicating the conviviality of making music with Hod on the occasions when we have the opportunity to work together. Though the group size varied, I think that the integral idea of friends playing this music together in a relaxed atmosphere has remained intact. |
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 CD-217 John Jensen & Robert Redd "Conversations"2011 album |
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 CD-102 John Jensen - Shifting Views2004 album |
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