If Time Stood Still Review from All About Jazz

By Jerry D'Souza Read entire review here: http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=37638

Norman Johnson was in high school in Jamaica when he heard George Benson and became interested in the guitar. He says that he was mesmerized by Benson, and though he figured that he was too old at 16 to begin playing an instrument he went ahead. Later studying at the Hartt School of Music with Jackie McLean and Brian Keane, his influences grew to include Wes Montgomery, Earl Klugh, and Andres Segovia. Segovia fostered his love for classical music and, along with Klugh, the nylon-string guitar.

Johnson is comfortable in several styles. He realizes them through different lineups, with the underlying factor being his enunciation. He is a clean and nimble player who imbues a lyrical sonority to his textures.

Johnson balances themes and tempos well enough through his playing and arrangements. It certainly augurs well for the future which, hopefully, will produce more fine music.

For more about Norman Johnson go to: http://www.NormanJohnsonGuitar.com

Norman Johnson Reviewed on Improvijazzation Nation

Norman Johnson - IF TIME STOOD STILL:

Improvijazzation Nation Rotcod Zzaj
Issue # 105 - http://zzaj.freehostia.com/Z105Reviews.htm

Includes reviews for at least 36 other artists

If the words "laid-back" & "groove" fit the mood you're in, you'll definitely want to listen to this debut CD from Norman... the opening track,"It's Time To Fly" will set the mood for the rest of the 10 highly-inspired tracks, no doubt. Norman's got a cast of players far too long to itemize here, so you'll have to buy the CD to get that. He's been around for many years, playing with folks like Dave Brubeck, Harvie S (also reviewed in this issue) & Phil Wilson, just to name a few; he shows on this CD that he has a marvelous talent for making music that will enchant your ears and capture your heart instantly. I just loved "Always and Forever," which takes us back to a magical time when music was an inspiration (think Wes, think Wes, think Wes). It was the soulful "Can I Get An Amen" that captured my vote for favorite, though... it will make a believer out of you, no doubt! I've no doubt that we'll be hearing lots more from Mr. Johnson in the next few years, and I'm truly looking forward to that. I give him a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, and an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of 4.96.

Norman Johnson, Pacific Coast Jazz Artist, Releases Debut CD “If Time Stood Still”

Slated for Street Date of August 10, 2010

San Diego, CA – June 15, 2010 – If Time Stood Still, the debut solo release from guitarist Norman Johnson on the Pacific Coast Jazz label, is an exquisite expression of music that has been waiting to happen. From sonic grooves reminiscent of Wes Montgomery and George Benson to the mysterious, sultry melodies that frame Johnson’s distinctive sound, this recording integrates the best of contemporary and traditional jazz. With over twenty recordings as a sideman, playing with highly respected musicians (Dave Brubeck, Jerry Bergonzi, Bill Mays, Harvie S., Phil Wilson and Steve Gadd) along with composing and recording music for corporate clients, this release puts Norman Johnson in the spotlight he truly deserves.

“We’re excited to have the opportunity to represent the debut CD, If Time Stood Still, from such a talented and experienced artist,” says Donna Nichols, founder and president of Pacific Coast Jazz. “This CD is way overdue for Norman who is a high caliber musician and composer.” Nichols’ label has teamed up with publicist Joy Foster of SV Media and radio promoter Adam Leibovitz at ASL Music Media for access to international media buying and radio promotion.

If Time Stood Still is well worth the wait with exceptional original songs that incorporate Latin and contemporary jazz grooves and a special arrangement of the Pat Metheny cover tune, “Always and Forever. “There are five different types of guitars used on this recording, a string quartet on the title cut and a wide range of instruments that include, Tyler VanOstrand (bass), Ken Fischer (piano), Chris Herbert (sax and flute), Steve Davis (trombone), Josh Bruneau (trumpet), including drummers, Bob Forte, Arti Dixson, Anthony Cusano, Chris Lemp drums and percussionists, Martin Obeng, Greg Allan and Eric Galm.“The songs and arrangements allow each musician to create interesting parts and improvise,” commented Johnson. “I would like people to hear this recording for what I intended it to be, good songs played by fine musicians, accessible to everyone whether you love jazz or not.“ For more information and interviews with Norman Johnson, visit www.NormanJohnsonGuitar.com or contact Joy Foster at SVMedia@svmediarelations.com or 310-487-0048.


Pacific Coast Jazz, founded in 2003, is an independent jazz label that also offers artist management services. All PCJ artists are distributed worldwide by MVD Audio/Big Daddy Music. For information on Pacific Coast Jazz, visit: www.pacificcoastjazz.com.