"Featuring Mike Stern" is a captivating jazz fusion album by the renowned pianist and composer Jan Gunnar Hoff, released on November 18, 2018, under Losen Records. This 48-minute journey through eight tracks showcases the brilliant collaboration between Hoff and legendary guitarist Mike Stern, blending their unique styles and compositions to create a harmonious 'common ground'.
The album opens with "Some Day" and takes you through a diverse range of tracks like the energetic "City Z", the soulful "Her Song", and the introspective "Seven Thirty". Each composition highlights the exceptional musicianship of both artists, with Stern's electrifying guitar work complementing Hoff's masterful piano playing. The album also includes the captivating "Mike 6/4", a track that pays homage to Stern's distinctive style.
Critics have praised the album for its ability to seamlessly bridge different eras and transatlantic aesthetics in jazz fusion. Downbeat magazine noted that the album "organically crosses over eras and transatlantic aesthetics, bridging a division in fusion". Whether you're a longtime fan of Jan Gunnar Hoff or a newcomer to his work, "Featuring Mike Stern" offers an engaging and dynamic listening experience that highlights the best of both artists. Available on various formats, including vinyl and CD, this album is a testament to the enduring power of jazz fusion and the creative synergy between two extraordinary musicians.
Vinylscout