Reviews
Junction
“Junction” offers up thirteen mood invoking jazz grooves. Each one is a masterful work at bringing out our deepest joys, hardening sorrows and sometimes causes the listener to laugh at the beat. The Richard Walton Group brings elements of jazz, rock, R & B and even elements of Latin and Brazilian music to this easy listening, yet energetic album. The group also counts on a wide range of techniques with members David Meer and Drew Davidsen on guitars, Eric Robertson on drums, Jacob Yoffee on saxophones, Mitchell Shaivitz on percussion and Walton on bass guitars, as well as production.
The titles song, “Junction”, is a great opening piece. It’s upbeat and quick paced, catching the ear right from the first few seconds. In this song, as well as throughout the album, Jacob Yoffee’s saxophone playing vies for attention with its generous notes; however he never steals the show, but greatly adds to the general quality of the music as a whole. “Find An Out” continues the trend of setting atmosphere, and the trend is continued by each individual piece on this album. This song made me think of tropical locations and sandy beaches – my out- with it’s coconut- like percussions. “Find An Out” will make any listener find their out.
“Across The Tracks” is a startling contrast to the moods created by the ambience of this CD. It isn’t bad at all, but shows the group means business and has more to say than just fun and games. “Across The Tracks” sounds like a story heard by a stranger on a train, setting the mood for a long and animated conversation, with it’s dramatic high points and thought provoking lows. The fourth track, “Golden Lady”, is the first time this group has ever recorded a cover song. Originally written and performed by Stevie Wonder in his “Inner Visions”, the group handles the song wonderfully, honoring the original. The mood in “Lost Inside Her Smile” back a serious and well composed love song, romantic, rocky, and great to listen to.
This group effort is an astonishing ride: with everyone writing & arranging, it takes the listener on an emotional journey. It begins with fun in “Find An Out”, and takes us though the humorous antics of “It’s In There Somewhere” and “What’s Next” while showcasing the talents of all involved. In the end, the group leaves us with a song “Coming Back Around” a tribute to themselves for releasing their forth studio release in six years. They let the listener know; they’re coming back around again and creating an original and identifiable sound as they do.
--- Jay Levy – Chesapeake Music Guide
“Every cut works. All tracks are prime regional radio airplay candidates; in smooth jazz, adult contemporary and soft rock formats especially. “Junction” is the best offering by the Richard Walton Group since 1993’s “Savannah Blue”; a standard in the modern jazz sound. No doubt, their trademark unified sound continues and it shows. The half dozen band members allow another half dozen other seasoned players to guest of the disc. That’s collaboration at it’s best. Stevie Wonder will approve of their treatment of his 1973 classic “Golden Lady”, the only cover on this collection. Play it, play it, play it. My favorite tracks are “Junction”, “Find An Out”, “Lost Inside Her Smile” and “It’s In There Somewhere”.
---B. Derek Shaw - Key Notes
“As with rock, there are many different forms of jazz. Some jazz is outside and dissonant. I understand the beauty of the math behind that music but once it reaches the music = calculus stage I have limited ability for decoding it into listening pleasure. Richard Walton Group’s “Junction” is an easy listen, a consonant, melodic effort; evoking thoughts of jazz legend Bob James.
The project was recorded at five different studios …Despite the number of studios, the cohesiveness of the recordings is quite remarkable. Walton, John Grant, Tom Alonso, Rick Witkowski and Mitchell Shaivitz all had a hand in engineering this project….. Too many cooks can spoil the broth, but that doesn’t happen on “Junction”.
All of the tunes are solid in arrangement and performance. Melody lines are simple and strong. Nothing hangs out or pushes the envelope and while that might make it too safe for some jazz devotees, it guarantees a wider appeal. If I must make a constructively critical comment, it’s that in an effort to be all inclusive for as many players as there are on this project, the arrangements are packed so tightly that they don’t breathe much. This is also a hallmark of Bob James.
“Junction” is more than ‘smooth jazz’. There are subtle complexities going on here not normally found in ‘smooth jazz’, but not enough to scare off the casual jazz listener. Years from now, “Junction” will be referred to as a fine audio snapshot of many of Baltimore’s jazz players enjoying themselves”.
---Ty Ford – Music Monthly Magazine www.tyford.com
Vessel
“Seasoned songwriter and jazz musician Richard Walton takes a leap of faith with his first solo effort, “Vessel”, a sincere foray into Spirit-filled lyrics supported with light, catchy beats. Close followers of Walton’s music will recognize some of the songs compiled here since he is at home in music ministry as he is on the jazz circuit. Well placed, hand picked talent round out this sincere, upbeat album.”
"Walton, who is an accomplished musician and band leader, is able to carry those skills over to vocal performance as well. He takes the spotlight at just the right moment and knows the strength of good backing vocals as well."
"Most Of the songs are a little long for radio play, but pop this CD into the car when you have a little time to rejuvenate your soul. I also like the delicate guitar and light harmony on the bonus track, but you will have to get the CD to know what that is. I’m not saying.”
---Karen Hostetter – special review for Key-Notes
"Sometimes the best Christian music ends up being the work that is most accessible, the comfortable musings of someone who is successful in their craft because they know how to reach out to people without any off-putting pretension. The 11 tracks here are a prime example: A group of songs that are easy to listen to but never overly simple, giving the listener credit and allowing for some leeway to peel back the layers. While the songwriting approach is fairly straightforward, the underlying rhythm and melodic elements are key in the essence of the sound, lending bits and pieces that add a level of importance to the whole. The lyrics are the same, fitting perfectly with the music and not occupying too much space in the whole scheme. The result is a collective balance and confidence that comes through structurally and creatively in these songs, posing ideas to the listener by maintaining an environment that is warm and welcoming."
---CD BABY (2007)
"Let's start with "Save A Corner Of Your Heart". This is a lovely acoustic version that highlights both Richard's playing and Rusty Young's beautiful melody. This is a stripped down version featuring just acoustic guitar and vocals - and it works really well. Actually, when I played the CD, it struck me that there are similarities with Richie Furay's religious albums and elements of Firefall's percussive and flute styles..... "Revelation" is the rockiest song on the CD with electric guitars and drums to the fore, and is probably my favorite cut after "Save A Corner Of Your Heart".... I would have recommended this CD to all us Poconuts purely for "Save A Corner Of Your Heart", but you know what, there are other songs on there worth your dollars/euros/pounds as well.
--- Steve O'Donnell - A Good Feelin' To Know (UK Poco Fanzine)
"Production on the album is excellent. It has a rich, full sound, with the instruments well-mixed and placed. Vocals are very clear and upfront. Using the Bible for inspiration in rock is nothing new. The Byrds had a huge hit when they adapted Pete Seeger's "Turn, Turn, Turn", which itself was aapted from the book of Ecclesiates. The whole Christian rock scene is huge, and "Vessel" fits perfectly in that genre. It succeeds in getting the word out, without being preachy. The tunes are well written and it sounds great. If you are into music that affirms life, I think this one will serve you well." --- Michael Macey - Chesapeake Music Guide
Live At Blues Alley
The Richard Walton Group has released a live 5 song CD titled "Live At Blues Alley". Not only a live recording of their 8/25/03 gig, the CD features a Quicktime movie of that gig's first tune. The recording quality is quite good considering it is a live recording. All songs are written by the entire band and the band is considerably tight. The short video is a bit uneventful, being that the video camera is placed at the back of the club behind lots of heads seated at tables. However, it serves the purpose of video demonstration for club bookers in that it is in fact a live recording.
"It's In There Somewhere" starts the CD with a funk jazz groove played by bass player Richard Walton & drummer Eric Robertson. Later, sax player Jacob Yoffee joins in by darting to and fro with sporadic and jagged solo lines. Guitarist David Meer chops out a subtle but effective groove to fill in all the cracks. At this point the whole band is together they ride out a very satisfying groove of a tune. And Richard keeps the band pumping with his unbounded energy.
Track two, "Intuition", is somewhat of an interplay between drums and sax. It's a samba type of a tune in the early Santana vein that has a rambling intro full of angular sax lines. Drummer Eric Robertson is spotlighted on this tune and the guy definitely has earned his stripes. Guitarist Andrew Davidsen slithers through the cracks and finds his way out to deliver a sweet set of notes for his solo.
"Kay's Lament" is a slow ballad that is a feel good type of tune with the melody sung by soprano saxophone. It's a bit of the smooth jazz side. It would be a great tune to listen to on a ride in a sailboat.
"Sasparilla", my favorite on the CD is a blues type shuffle that swings pretty hard in the right direction. There's some great interplay between bass and lead guitar that will keep the listener happy. I especially like the catchy rhythm guitar part that was carved out on this little ditty by David Meer. It is somewhat the thumb print of the tune. It is correctly named after the rootbeer due to it's full sense of musical personality and air of novelty.
The CD closes with an extended version of "It's In There Somewhere". This track opens with a long drum solo and eventually makes it to the crux of the tune. This version of the tune is a bit lengthy due to the extended drum solo at the forefront of the tune. The sax player joins the drummer and eventually the remaining band members creep in about 3 minutes into the tune. It's a more funky, laid back version of the first track on the CD. And yes, there is another drum solo towards the end of the tune. The band returns in full to close the tune. A reprise draws the curtain closed and ends the CD. It's a great live recording with great players.
Dan Mudd - Music Monthly Magazine
"Rich Walton has paid his dues through hard work, talent and perserverence. As evidenced on this CD, the dues have paid off. "Live At Blues Alley comprises five original songs. The first track, "It's In There Somewhere, takes you on a roller coaster of funk & jazz, with Jacob Yoffee playing a smooth saxophone. Rich Walton's rock-solid bass is understated and forms the backbone of the song. The rhythm guitar, played by David Meer, weaves in and out and is in the background when the song dictates, and right up front when the coaster is making it's descent. Track two, "Intuition", is a complicated dance between drum & sax. The song showcases the considerable skills of Eric Robertson on drums. Once again, the guitar sneaks it's way in ans treats us to a beautiful clean solo by Andrew Davidsen. "Kay's Lament" is a soothing, lazy breeze washing over you. "Sassparilla" is a swingy, uplifting tune with a compelling interplay between the bass and lead guitar, both of which at times carry the melody together, and then diverge into separate but connected paths. The band is tight. Richard Walton is a talented bass player and songwriter. It is hard to believe this CD was recorded live. In these days of recording studio manipulation, guaranteeing a flawless result, it is a very sweet surprise to hear a performance that is live and as close as flawless as a live performance will permit."
Carolyn Krohn - Chesapeake Music Guide
"There are syncopated beats, silky saxophone and swooping bass lines - the last of which supplied by the bandleader himself." - Tony Scalfani | Patuxent Publications
"If you like original music, by some talented players, take a listen to "Live At Blues Alley". You'll be glad you did!" - Susie Mudd | Music Monthly
Hear and Now
"Their diverse talent is obvious, as the album draws on a wide variety of influences, pulling on everything from Brazilian sambas to Steely Dan. The record is marked by strong interplay within the band and a generally relaxed mood throughout. Walton's bass hold's everything together, while Doyle and Yoffee both have a strong presence in their wind playing. Robertson proves himself an accomplished percussionist, shifting styles with ease. Davidsen & Meer make their talent obvious on such songs as "Rio Le" and "Riviera" . The band's control and knowledge of it's subject matter is striking at times. The album is consistently satisfying and should prove well worth the money to contemporary jazz fans. At over an hour's worth of music, you can't go wrong." - Dave Kusterer | Zip Publications (September 2000)
"The Richard Walton Group's latest CD, "Hear And Now", displays a new level of maturity and musical presence from this seasoned group. It showcases the rich contemporary jazz sound that has earned them recognition on the Mid-Atlantic scene, airplay on East Coast radio and numberous awards in songwriting contests." - Jen Ellingsworth | The Beach Paper (August 2000)
"This is contemporary jazz. The music is tight and flawless." - Laurin Wollan | Music Monthly (June 2000)
"There is a maturing of the group, all of the instruments blend to create one unified groove. Walton and his band members shine throughout the album. Maybe with the release of "Hear And Now", Charm City radio will realize what I've known for years-these guys have tons of talent - play their stuff! There is a musical maturity that comes with age. The Richard Walton Group is at that next level." - Derek Shaw of Key-Notes magazine
"It sounds terrific! Great mixing and mastering. There's a lot going on in some of those pieces, but you can hear everything clearly. Kathie did a great job, too!" - Tom Alonso | Musician/Composer(July 2000)
"It is truly a fine work, Richard. Congratulations!" - Jen Ellingsworth | The Cape Gazette (August 2000)
"It is your best CD yet, congrats Richard!" - Susie Mudd | Music Monthly(August 2000)
"As I write I am listening to the latest release from The Richard Walton Group. I've always liked Rich Walton- he's a good guy, and with each album he puts out, I become more and more impressed by his music. The new release, Hear And Now, is beautiful from start to finish. The artwork is gorgeous. I believe his wife, Kathie, did it-she's quite talented. Already impressed, I had to listen to the disc. It's wonderful. The music, especially the instrumental stuff really floats my boat. He's got so much talent on this record. Listen for the talents of Daid Meer, Eric Robertson, Andrew Davidsen, Jacob Yoffee, Joe Doyle and special guests Tracey Tiernan, Mitch Shaivitz, John Grant, my pal Tommy Alonso and the incomparable Rick Witkowski (Crack The Sky). Once again, the mastering was done by Doug Milton -he's got such a great ear. Start to finish, "Hear And Now" is an exceptional piece of music. I put it up there with the best. Really good stuff!" - Susie Mudd - Music Monthly(August 2000)
"... features Walton's pleasant tunes played with agreeable dexterity by his smooth jazz sextet. ... it also shares the genre's appeal to it's fans (attractive themes and accessible variations)." - Geoffrey Himes | Patuxent Publications (August 2, 2000)
Where Time Stood Still
".....the songs are equally enjoyable modern jazz, not a sleeper in the bunch. Catchy melodies, pristine instrumental play, and an upbeat, celebrating outlook." - Greg Allen | Fatfingers Monthly
"...an exceptional release!" - B. Derek Shaw | Editor, Keynotes
"... I think it's a solid release." - John Spivey | Music Director WTMD-FM
"Great Stuff!" - John Denman | Program Director WOUI-FM
"Songs and sonics are great!" - James Griffin | Academy Award Winning Singer/Songwriter
"Wow, great music. You got a winner here." - Lloyd Marcus | Singer/Recording Artist
"Nice CD. I like it. Good vocals." - Ray Parker | Professional Music Instructor
"I like it very much!" - David Curry - Music Connoisseur
Savannah Blue
"Really enjoyed Savannah Blue; it's real professional and it sounds great." - James Griffin | Singer/Academy Award Winning Songwriter
"...an exceptional release!" - Bob Linden | Editor; Jazzy Music Scene
"Instrumental Jazz with a Latin tinge is the substance of this 3rd release from guitarist Richard Walton." - Kerry Dexter | Dirty Linen Magazine
"Savannah Blue is straight ahead adult contemporary jazz along the lines of David Sanborn, Pat Metheny and Dave Grusin." - Chris Schultz | Patuxent Publications
"There's enough atmosphere here for Walton to create his own sky." - J. Doug Gill | Mid-Atlantic Monthly
"A highly marketable musical product." - Christine Stutz | Patuxent Publications
Out of Bounds
"Full of radio ready material, Out of Bounds nicely showcases Walton's vocal and instrumental abilities." - John Lewis | Baltimore City Paper
"It's excellent. I love the instrumental songs. It's great." - Susie Mudd | Editor; Music Monthly Magazine
"From the Metheny-ish instrumentals to a variety of vocal stylings, this 60 minute tour-de-force features guitarists John Grant and Rick Witkowski" - Mike Kirmisch | Audiophile Imports
"There is a lot of talent here and the performances are top notch." - Dirty Linen Magazine
The Whole Nine Yards
"The Whole Nine Yards is evidence that music can transcend generations; it indeed is a bit of everything." - Betsey Stieff | Patuxent Publications
"Walton's songwriting abilities shine on. You must hear So Soon; it'll knock your socks off." - Bill Martin | Dirty Linen Magazine
"A whopping 50 minute tour-de-force through, pop, rock, jazz and country. Brilliant!" - Annapolis Music Scene Magazine
