Steve Hahn: Stickburst

John W. Patterson

Recent articles (186 total)

Published: May 1, 1999

Excellent jazzy, Chapman Stick work here! Hahn surely pulls off that Chapman, Levin, Johnson, Howard, and Leechford precision. On this release, as on his sh release, Hahn keeps things lively and hopping with endless Stick finesse.

You can hear Michael Hedges, Stanley Jordan, or Will Ackerman in his songs. Listen for Levin and Frippy moments. As on sh , Hahn dubs in his fine Mark Ishamic trumpet skills. Ernie Crews helps out on drums and percussion. Hahn tackles The Beatles' "Norwegian Wood", Gershwin's "Summertime", and even Weather Report's "Birdland" and "In a Silent Way". He nails 'em so deftly and nicely. You Gentle Giant fans will get off on his renditions of "Raconteur Troubador/Acquiring the Taste" and "Spooky Boogie".

Hahn's originals like "Big Heavy Critter" are very strong and call to mind Levin meets Isham and "65 Years in the Business" is simply bliss-ville. Hahn winds things up with another original, "Funk Potpourri" that is excellent! I swear it was like Alex De Grassi doing Happy The Man! Strongly recommended. Let Hahn Stick it to ya.

Steve Hahn: Stickburst (CD, 53:25); DeeP Chocolate Productions SR930301

Reprinted with the permission of John Collinge and Progression Magazine .

Record Label: DeeP Chocolate Productions
Style: Fusion/Progressive Rock