Search - Michael Johnson :: Departure

Michael Johnson's guitar and voice still shine...

Kathryn L. Heyer | Illinois | 08/09/1998

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Michael Johnson is a classically trained guitarist who is equally at home playing folk, jazz, or country guitar. This album blends several styles from his varied repertoire, from the jazzy "Old Fashioned Love" to the philosophical title tune "Departure." There are ten others to enjoy along the way, with Alison Krauss performing backup vocal on three tunes and playing on one. Add the thoughtful lyrics, and you have a satisfying album."Miami Beach" is the story of a 30's beauty who, from her wicker chair world tells today's youth, "I must be your future 'cause you surely are my past."In "Dirty Hands and Dirty Faces," we hear a father's dialog with his young son, "I hope you'll be more kind and understanding with your dad than I was with mine." In the bittersweet "Imogene" he asks whether it's some sort of sign that "Everybody's playing good time music, but no one's having a good time&quot! ; and ultimately admits sadly, "Time goes by, and so did I."Through them all, Johnson's guitar artistry shows through. He is equally at home playing the cheerful riff behind "Miami Beach" to the vaguely Native American background to his early tune "Cain's Blood." His fans will enjoy this album, and those who have never heard his work will find it a good introduction to his talents."

A Classic Album from MJ

c_choi | 09/20/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I like Michael Johnson the best when he plays his acoustic guitar or classic guitar and sings. When I received this CD, I felt delighted to note that MJ played either acoustic guitar or classic guitar or both in ALL of the songs! In the earlier albums in the 70's, I loved his acoustic songs like "I'll always love you" and "Doors", and so in this CD my favorite songs are "Departure", "Distant Fire", "Dirty Hands and Dirty Faces", "Unconditionally" and "Imogene". The musical arrangement is simple but the songs are beautiful when MJ sang them softly. There was guest appearance by Alison Krauss, but her presence was insignificantly felt. What a waste! I would love to hear MJ's voice beautifully blended with Alison's angelic vocal."

Michael Johnson's Best Work

c_choi | 10/20/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD captures Michael Johnson's performance magic better than any other recording I've heard from him. He seems to have selected a group of songs that really highlight his exceptional guitar playing skills while still allowing his golden voice to shine through. If you appreciate him at all, this is a must."