Time Takes Odd Turns
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
Listen to Time Takes Odd Turns
The multi-instrumentalist and renaissance man Tom Johnson fleshes out a debut album, and it brings in a large cast for a timeless jazz affair that is loaded with brass, winds, guitars, synth, and percussion.
“Naught One” opens the listen with plenty of energy, where Nick Recktenwald’s trumpet and Chance Davis’ soulful tenor sax add much coziness, and “Simple Song” follows with a calm demeanor that benefits much from Alex Wignall’s sublime keys and Sam Butler’s well timed trumpet.
Deeper into the listen, the dreaminess of “One More Time” welcomes Garrett Fasig’s warm sax spirit, while the peppy “Well You Better” showcases Francis Bassett-Diley’s agile drumming amid the rich delivery.
Deeper still, “Cats And Mouses” is a charming album highlight that allows for Joseph Trahan’s baritone sax and Ana Nelson’s clarinet to shine, and “Simply Stuff And Nonsense” meshes Joel Tucker’s guitar and Leah Warman’s and Marcell Penzes’ trombones for the jazz-rock exploration.
Johnson holds down Yamaha S-80 and Moog Voyager across the album, and his long list of guests sure to help make the transition from psychologist and professor to accomplished musician seamless.
Travels well with: Steve Sieck- Crazy That Way; Ricky Alexander- Just Found Joy