Americans (2003). Scott Johnson /its own character and connotations/

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Steve Smith in the New York Times on the guitar in classical music and specifically by Scott Johnson in his work Americans:

Here and throughout the work Mr. Johnson’s music is playful and engaging; only gradually do you realize “Americans” is also a sophisticated examination of the way immigrants negotiate cultural isolation and assimilation. Intentionally or not, the piece also shows how the electric guitar maintains its own character and connotations even when completely integrated into a mixed ensemble.

I recently purchased this CD, for some reason thinking I was buying the music of Tom Johnson. I suppose neither Johnson has been over-recorded. 

(Via Avant Music News).

Comments

[Alex V. Cook]

Listened to this CD this morning after reading the NYT piece. That first track is stunning, a cage match between text and music just how I like it, like if Robert Ashley was more fun.

Also Kyle Bobby Dunn just yesterday sent me the other disc mentioned in the review. I wasn't sure what to make of it until the reviewer laid it out and I made the stylistic connection to Carl Stone.

Happy Father's Day!
Alex

[methadone detox]

ork Times on the guitar in classical music and specifically by Scott Johnson in his work Americans:Here and throughout the work Mr. Johnson’s music is playful and engaging; only gradually do you realize “Americans” is also a sophisticated examination of the way im