What's New

Norman Johnson

What’s New

Pacific Coast Jazz is proud to present, NORMAN JOHNSON “If Time Stood Still”

If Time Stood Still, the debut solo release from guitarist Norman Johnson on the Pacific Coast Jazz label, is an exquisite expression of music that has been waiting to happen. From sonic grooves reminiscent of Wes Montgomery and George Benson to the mysterious, sultry melodies that frame Johnson’s distinctive sound this recording integrates the best of contemporary and traditional jazz. With over twenty recordings as a sideman, playing with highly respected musicians (Dave Brubeck, Bill Mays, Harvie S., Phil Wilson and Steve Gadd) along with composing and recording music for corporate clients, this release puts Norman Johnson in the spotlight he truly deserves.

1. It’s Time To Fly
2. Acoustic Groove
3. Always And Forever
4. As It Is
5. Starting Tomorrow
6. Can I Get An Amen
7. It Time Stood Still
8. Unforgiven
9. All In Time
10.Midnight Sun

Musicians:

Tyler VanOstrand, bass - Chris Herbert, sax - Ken Fischer, piano - Bob Forte,

Arti Dixson, Anthony Cusano and Chris Lemp, drums - Steve Davis, trombone

Martin Obeng, Greg Allan, Eric Galm, percussion - Josh Bruneau, trumpet -

cover photo by Woody Ford

It Time Stood Still, Available at:

itunes store

Books Music

“The album is a mixture of polished jazz skill and smooth jazz, with an emphasis on the smooth. Johnson has a healthy band backing him, and when Johnson plays there is a brilliance that works superbly...”

Dianne Mower and I have collaborated with Chris (bass & trombone) & Dan Brubeck,(drums)

interpreting Dave Brubeck’s tunes and transforming these melodies with Dianne's velvety timbre.

And who would know better than his sons, Chris and Dan, when they had gotten it just right.

This album shows that Dave Brubeck was more than a great musician, even without his amazing

fingers on the keys the music is just as sweet, and sometimes a bit different than you might expect.

No collection of Dave's music can ever be considered complete until you add this soon to be released album.

In Your Own Sweet Way

Here Comes McBride

Jim Cammack, bass player for Amad Jamal, is working on a recording of his original compositions. He has many great musicians on this project and I am proud to be a part of it. No set date for release but stay tuned.

Brad Walseth, Jazz Chicago.net

“The use of so many different sounds - Johnson moves from acoustic to electric and back, Fischer switches from acoustic to electric piano throughout, Herbert pulls out his soprano sax on "Unforgiven," and Davis' trombone is featured on "All in Time" - creates a truly colorful presentation on this well-balanced and attractive recording. Johnson has been on the scene for many years, but with his fine debut he makes the case that it may be time that he be considered one of the bright new stars on the contemporary jazz guitar scene.”

Doug Morissey, MuzikReviews.com

When Norman Johnson was a freshman in high school a friend lent him the George Benson album “The Other Side of Abbey Road” and it changed Norman’s life forever. Like the saying goes, a butterfly flaps its wings and Norman Johnson finds his path in life and then a tornado blows through a small town in Oklahoma and flattens everything except the music store, coincidence? Probably, but things happen for a reason my Jazz loving friends! Norman Johnson was born to play the guitar like Miles Davis was born to be a real son of a bitch and also play the trumpet occasionally.

One listen to If Time Stood Still is all the proof you need of the statements I made above.

If smooth jazz guitar is all Norman Johnson knows than he knows more than most ever will. If Time Stood Still will leave you wishing it actually would stand still so you could enjoy the moment that this album creates.

My interview with James Harber, The Jazz Intersection, Honolulu, Hawaii

The interview can also be heard on YouTube