Search - James P. Johnson :: James P Johnson 1938 1942

Great Stride Piano

B. D. Tutt | London, UK. | 11/03/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"James P. Johnson was a great and influential pianist most of whose recordings were unavailable for many years. Classics is to be commended for systematically re-issuing all the recordings released under Johnson's name. This is the third out of eight in the series.This CD shows Johnson in a variety of roles. The first two tracks feature him in a trio with Pee Wee Russell & Zutty Singleton, and as is often the case with Johnson, one feels that, freed of the tyranny of the 3 minute 78 disc, he would have stretched out more. Tracks 2 - 7 & 14 - 18, band pieces featuring Red Allen & J.C. Higginbotham, are relatively undistinguished.Johnson's genius is demonstrated in his solo work. Tracks 8 - 13 show him at the top of his form. "When Dreams Come True" is a textbook illustration of Johnson's sophisticated, almost classical "theme and variation" approach to stride piano. He romps through a series of free yet disciplined performances, varying rhythm, dynamics & touch, all underpinned by a rock steady left hand. "Mule Walk" shows him in utter command, generating great swing and momentum without rushing the tempo. "Fascination" is a ragtime piece Johnson first recorded as a piano roll in 1917, here re-invented into a swinging three theme tour - de - force. His lyrical side is shown in "Lonesome Reverie" & "Blueberry Rhyme", both of which again show his tremendous touch to fine effect. The final track, "Snowy Morning Blues", is one of Johnson's best remembered pieces, and is given a beautiful rendition.No lover of stride piano should think twice before buying this."