Grant Geissman - Say That (CD)

All Music Guide

Guitarist Grant Geissman became quite a well known name in smooth jazz for a time, though he grew tired of its repetitive nature and decided to return to straightahead jazz. This twoday session consists of originals that are drenched with influences from wellknown hard bop dates by jazz legends. The opener, "Say That," will surprise his smooth jazz fans with its potent solos by tenor saxophonist Brian Scanlon, pianist Emilio Palame and the leader. Geissman's "Theme From Two and a Half Men" is rarely heard for more than a few seconds at a time on network television (and in a doowop vocal setting at that), so this humorous, swinging instrumental arrangement demonstrates its full possibilities. "Grandfather's Banjo" actually features Geissman playing his grandfather's fivestring banjo, backed by Trey Henry (on tuba), Scanlon (clarinet), Palame and drummer Ray Brinker; this infectious piece has a classic jazz feeling with a clearly modern flavor. Smooth jazz fans may be slow to check out Grant Geissman's Say That, every other jazz collector should snap it up and join the fun (which includes the colorful artwork and Bill Milkowski's enjoyable liner notes).

- Ken Dryden, All Music Guide