Search - James P. Johnson :: 1928-38

Classic Piano

B. D. Tutt | London, UK. | 04/15/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Volume Two of Classics eight volume James P. Johnson set contains some of the stride masters' greatest recordings in addition to some less memorable band tracks.Tracks 3-4 and 9-12 are superb examples of stride piano demonstraing all Johnson's formidable talents: superb touch, a great improvisational imagination, power, drive and swing. The variations on the last strain of "Modernistic" are a text book example of Johnson's approach to the piano, while "Feelin' Blue" is a strong example of Johnson's approach to blues, a more powerful interpretation than Waller's similar "Numb Fumblin'".Tracks 7-8 are big band numbers featuring King Oliver, Johnson sharing the piano with Waller, and a pretty dreadful vocal trio. Tracks 18 - 22 are entertaining: fine band tracks featuring Johnson with Max Kaminsky and the great Pee Wee Russell (listen to the way he swings into the final chorus!). "There'll Be Some Changes Made" is the standout track, but lovers of outrageous musical quotations will admire the way in which in "Dinah" James P. manages to bring in the melody of that classic jazz number, "Yes, We Have No Bananas".As with all the Classics sets, there are some weak tracks, but this is an enjoyable CD, and the piano solos alone make it an essential purchase for lovers of stride piano."