Vic Juris: Songbook

The excellent program on Songbook features fare both well-known (“Billie’s Bounce,” “All the Things You Are”) and less familiar (Golson’s “Touch Me Lightly”). But Juris takes lots of chances here. Bassist Jay Anderson and drummer Jeff Hirshfield appear on both records and work regularly with Juris, and it shows. Both are good at keeping things moving and staying out of people’s way. Juris’ work on classical guitar is impressive, especially his very intelligent reading of Django’s “Nuages.” Referring to the original and then going elsewhere, Juris reveals both sensitivity and serious chops along the way. But most notable is the startling solo rendition of Bill Evans’ “Time Remembered.” This is an inside player really reaching out, like Attila Zoller sometimes used to do, but going even further. Guitar-watchers should take note of this impressive and adventurous player.

Originally Published June 1, 2001