Search - Mike Stern :: Standards

Be like Mike

Jeff Arenson | Colorado Springs, CO United States | 02/11/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Mike Stern always has displayed a large be-bop influence in both his playing and compositions so this Cd was inevitable. What we end up hearing on this disc is the closest thing to seeing Mike Stern's band live until he actually releases a live disc. The playing is amazing and he adds new life to some standards. Although all of the covers were written for piano or saxophone, Mike shows that guitar is a great medium for Jazz. Among the highlights are "There is no greater Love" and "Straight No Chaser". There isn't a dissapointing moment on the entire disc. The one noticable difference between this one and the others is the sound of Mr. Stern's guitar. Unlike the other discs ,where he will incorporate a distorted tone during a part of a song, the whole Cd is played with a clean tone. However, this does not stop Mike from displaying non-jazz influences in his playing. Mike Stern doesn't play with the unbelievable speed of other guitarists (Holdsworth,Lane,Etc.) but he does have a unique style and nobody puts together phrases better than him. For anyone that would like to learn another way to approach the instrument this is a great place to start. Actually this Cd is great for any jazz/fusion lover because there are many lessons to be learned on this recording."

An original, fresh, quirky take on standards and originals

NDBx | New York, NY United States | 05/23/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Mike has such a unique sound and approach. You can listen to a few notes and you know it's him. He can wail in the bluesiest (if there is such a word) fashion or play in the this unique bebop mode. Unique because he doesn't sound like other jazz guitarists playing the same tunes.



This recording is filled with fresh readings of some often performed standards. Mike's quirky original approach along with the setting here allows form some room for all parties to re-interpret. Both bassists Larry Grenadier and Jay Anderson shine with their sense of swing and their dialog with Mike. Ben Perowsky and Al Foster are absolutely impeccable on this recording.



This, for me, is Mike Stern at his best. His imagination is shown in the best light with these pieces. He took great care with these pieces and it shows. He has a particular gift with ballads, he doesn't over run them.



Is he a true jazz guitarist in the traditional sense? Who knows? It really doesn't matter because it's this one foot in one realm, one foot in another gives him enough to actually revitalize these pieces and make this recording worth getting.



Gil Goldstein is one of the truly underrated producers. He is an excellent musician and his production of this recording shows that he knows what these musicians need to thrive. There is "live" feel in the studio and improvisation flourished as a result.



Stern's tone is rich, fat, bluesy. The man can play bop and with fire.



This one is a real treat. One of his absolute best."