Jazz Articles about Doug MacDonald

About Doug MacDonald

Album Review

There is an old Southern adage that says “Show me who you're runnin' with and I'll show you who you are". Everybody is in fast company on this disc, with MacDonald leading the way. This artful Guitarist is runnin' with the big leaguers, but of course he is a made member of this elite cadre.. 'Blue Capers' swings pleasantly with MacDonald's slick solo. 'Until The Real Thing Comes Along' ..Well, the real thing came along on this toe tapper, with ...

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Album Review

Doug MacDonald: Blue Capers

by Jack Bowers
November 1, 2001

Guitarist Doug MacDonald gets down to basics on his seventh album as leader, shepherding a seasoned quartet through its paces in an amiable session that swings gently but firmly from start to finish. MacDonald’s mellow sound is underscored by an unblemished technique that he never uses to overwhelm the listener, seldom submitting an unnecessary note and letting the quiet spaces speak for themselves. His comrades–in–arms, pianist Art Hillery, bassist John Heard (also responsible for the impressive cover art) and drummer ...

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Album Review

Doug MacDonald: Blue Capers

by Jim Josselyn
November 1, 2001

When I listen to music, jazz in particular, I listen instinctually for two things: artistry or craftsmanship. On guitarist Doug MacDonald’s “Blue Capers" I hear craftsmanship, but not any one thing that really stands out as unique or different or exciting enough to warrant artistry. Sporting a thin, bland tone and commonplace ideas that lack any strong sense of jazz rhythm, MacDonald doesn’t command this listener’s attention. The liner notes list Wes Montgomery, Kenny Burrell and Grant Green as influences, ...