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'...Johnson sings the praises of piano, bass and drum trios by plunking himself in the studio with various pianists and drummers. The results of this simple format are hardly simplistic....these trios remind us that with back to the basics, less can be more.'~ JazzTimes 12/96, p.137 'Bringing in seven different pianists and six drummers for a series of 11 trio performances with bassist Gordy Johnson is an inspired concept, for it enhances the presence of a gently compelling stylist on the most self-effacing instrument in jazz. Johnson sounds both more adventurous and more at ease in the four tunes he plays alongside ex-Weather Report drummer Peter Erskine (who was Johnson's old cohort in the Maynard Ferguson band two decades ago) and local pianist Chris Lomheim, whose superb, harmonically oriented compositions and absorbing introspection stimulate creativity from the rhythm section. Trios is less consistently satisfying on the more uptempo, quasi-funky numbers. Highlights include a spirited On The Trail with pianist Bobby Peterson and drummer Gordy Knudtson, and a jam between Johnson, pianist John Burr and drummer Joe Pulice on Face Lift, the rousing finale.'~ Britt Robson - Star Tribune - July 28, 1996 'Previously known for his electric work with Maynard Ferguson, Chuck Mangione, and Roy Buchanan, Minneapolis-based Gordon Johnson has gravitated toward the upright in recent years. On his solo debut he makes a significant contribution the the piano-trio legacy, anchoring seven different lineups. Throughout, Johnson's support and solo work retain a driving elegance that's best heard on such tracks as The Jazz Therapist and the Dr. John nod, Mac's Ribs'~ Chris Jisi - Bass Player - September 1996 |
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