When, in 2005 I reviewed the CD ‘Underground’ by bass player Vail Johnson I described it as pushing out the boundaries of contemporary jazz and being guaranteed to get him noticed. Well, that was then and now he is back with his latest offering, the very different ‘Come Together’. Quite simply this is Johnson’s tribute to the music of the Beatles and with eleven Lennon and McCartney classics plus the timeless George Harrison composition ‘Something’, he is in effect delivering what, in all but name, represents the ‘great popular songbook’ of the last forty something years.
In fact since the 1980's Vail Johnson has been the groove behind many of the very best jazz and R&B artists to be found anywhere. He has toured with Herbie Hancock, Gerald Albright, Jeff Lorber and George Benson among others but perhaps is best known, both on tour and in the studio, as Kenny G's right hand man. He remains an integral part of Kenny’s live show and for ‘Come Together’ is joined by band regulars such as John Raymond on guitar, Danny Bejarano on drums and the invariably amazing Ron Powell on percussion. Keyboard player Hans Z who also collaborated with Johnson on the ‘Underground’ project is as good as ever and ensures that the collective vibe is of the highest quality imaginable.
Comfortingly familiar yet strikingly fresh, as one delicious song glides into the next the overall feeling is one of tremendous pleasure. The understated yet respectful way in which Johnson re-imagines this precious material is nothing short of breathtaking and is perfectly demonstrated by his tender rendition of ‘Yesterday’. Although, in its entirety, this instantly recognizable music should preclude any surprises Johnson retains a few up his sleeve. The first comes as early as the opening track, the feisty title cut, where Johnson reveals none other than the great Kenny G on soprano sax. Kenny helps drive it home in fine style but when he returns for the chilled out ‘Eleanor Rigby’ his interplay with Johnson delivers what is not only the albums top tune but also a certainty for inclusion in the Smooth Jazz Therapy top ten covers of 2009.
Not simply for lovers of contemporary jazz and not only for aficionados of the Beatles, ‘Come Together’ is for music lovers everywhere and comes recommended.
For more and to get the latest on Vail Johnson go to www.vailjohnson.net.
