Jeff Barone: Crazy Talk (2002)

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

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Published: April 6, 2004

A New Orleans shuffle and plenty of traditional swing bring Jeff Barone’s debut CD into focus as a jazz guitar celebration. Echoes of Wes Montgomery and Grant Green reverberate in quartet format, as Barone works with piano, bass and drums to interpret classic tunes and several original compositions.

The session starts off with a blues. Solos around the room and fours with the drummer set the pace for mainstream action. Barone’s light attack and clear articulation usher in a pleasant scenario. Listen in at jazz-network.com and feel the swinging mood that prevails. Barone proves hypnotic in his interpretations with this cohesive group.

”Crazy Talk” it is, in the manner of hot jazz that swings with the kind of freedom not found in most other forms of music. Barone improvises with spirit. He makes himself comfortable both with hot jazz and with mellower airs. An older Latin backdrop gives the session as much excitement as do contemporary songs. This is one to be savored again and again.

Track Listing: Resa

Personnel: Jeff Barone- electric guitar, acoustic guitar; Ron Oswanski- piano; Chris Berger- bass; Joe Strasser- drums; Mike Clark- drums on

Record Label: String Jazz Recordings
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream