8 Legged Monster
Mike Irwin Johnson, 2009, CD
Instrument: Instrumental
Issue: 15.4
Jazz Ruler Type: BigBand
Performance: 4
Sound: 4
Score:
O’s Notes: Johnson is a left coast guitarist that created the 8-Legged Monster (a nonet with six pieces of brass) to accommodate his horny arrangements. They have blossomed into one of San Francisco’s feature acts. While Mike takes a few solos he defers to the talented members of his ensemble more often. Of note are veteran Noel Jewkes (ts) and Joe Cohen (as). Karina Dunike delivers the lone vocal track on “Goodbye” surrounded by impressive instrumental solos. “F.U.R.B.” is a solid swinger and showcase for all. Johnson is in his late 20s and clearly has accomplished a lot already. We were impressed with his New Works in Bebop!
Publicist: 8 Legged Monster