Jazz veteran John Scofield (1951) - like many with him - once started making music so he could play with others. Not surprisingly, it took until he was 71 before he released a solo record. Indeed, the aptly titled Solo contains no more than "Sco" himself, some guitar effects, and the help of a looper to record accompaniment for himself while playing. Yet he makes only sparse use of the tools. Scofield
… has an enormously full tone and knows how to give every note he plays the right volume, without it being at the expense of spontaneity. The repertoire contains a nice mix of standards (There Will Never Be Another You), traditionals (Danny Boy) and his own work. Most surprising repertoire choice is You Win Again by country great Hank Williams. The album is austere in its conception, but has such a musical richness that it doesn't feel empty for a moment. (JV)more