Hollihan, James - The Funky Misfit

Year of Release: 2004
Label: Nuevotron
Catalog Number: n/a
Format: CD
Total Time: 43:40:00

James Hollihan has made his mark for several years now producing and performing with such acts as Marshall Chapman, Russ Taff and Jeff Foxworthy, to name just a few that populate his impressive resume. Now he has decided to turn the tables and become the recording artist with a new jazz CD titled The Funky Misfit, all in ultraphonic stereo.

The colors and images found on the cover of this CD invoke thoughts of the lounge and beatnik scenes of the fifties. There is no doubt in my mind that the fifties was the decade that jazz music matured and Hollihan explores all of the styles that developed, including those that had a major impact on him. The fusion of contemporary, Latin and many other styles form into an interesting stew of ideas within each composition. His love for the textures and colors of jazz are obvious in every track on this recording and the result unfolds before you throughout your first, second, and subsequent listening experiences. What is most impressive about this project is that Hollihan played every instrument, wrote all the songs, then recorded and produced the album in his own studio! Who needs a record label when you have all of that talent? This is the kind of situation that is developing more every day with availability and affordability of new technologies.

To be perfectly honest I was disappointed that the CD had to end, but there is always time for another spin. Every time you listen, it is like hearing a new album, and it is readily apparent why this is so. Hollihan effectively uses all of his talents wisely without spreading himself to thin, covering each style of music with detail and care.

I have to give the man credit for such a fine first outing, he chose one of the more difficult styles of music to approach and explore. This CD is valid proof of his talents as not only a composer and producer, but also as a musician. Surely, the recognition will be forthcoming once the word gets out about this music. I do hope that he decides to continue this aspect of his career, as the future unfolds it will most certainly get more interesting to see how he develops.

Tracklisting:
The Funky Misfit (4:45) / Groove DeVille (4:39) / Across the Desrt Sky (4:26) / The Hush of Love / (4:45) / The Waltz of the Leaves (5:18) / Cypress Shores (4:35) / It Came From Brazil (3:37) / Solitude (3:55) / Cafe Blue (4:14) / Angel Noir (5:21)

Musicians:
James Hollihan - e verything

Discography:
The Funky Misfit (2004)
The Nutcracker Suite - Sounds Of The Holidays (2004)

Genre: Jazz-Trad. Jazz

Origin US

Added: March 7th 2004
Reviewer: Keith "Muzikman" Hannaleck
Score:
Artist website: www.nuevotron.com
Hits: 2454
Language: english