If you’re a fan of guitar and classic swing music, then the new CD by Harri Stojka is just what you’re looking for. Though a few of the songs seem a little redundant, “A Tribute To Swing” highlights Harri’s effortless mastery of the instrument, and exuberant love for it, in a winning combination.
This is not a recorded piece, but a captured moment of artistic inspiration. His play is fast and furious, yet light and nimble: a cascade of complicated melodies over the backdrop of simple rhythmic structures. At times, through the fusion of gypsy violins, Harri creates rich hues of sound with elegant harmonies and unison play.
In 1981, “Harri Stojka Express” was the only Austrian band to join Jimmy Cliff, Eric Burdon, Van Morrison and Carlos Santana at the Open Air Festival in Vienna’s Prater Stadium. Harri also played with Larry Coryell, Birelli Lagrene and Harri Pepi at the Guitar Summit in Montreal, the Mecca of jazz musicians, where he earned praise from world-class musicians.
It is obvious on his current record that Harri Stojka plays for his listeners rather than for his own self-indulgence. He is a talent to be sure, and worthy of your utmost attention.
Tracks: Swanee River, Nuits de Saint-Germain-des-Prés, J’attendrai, Bei mir bist Du schön, Avalon, Nuages, Limehouse Blues, Petite Fleur, Undecided, Song For My Daddy, Just One Of Those Things, Sweet Sue, Schee is’ so a Ringlspu
Recorded: 2004 Record Label: Independent Style: Jazz/Swing/Gypsy
Musicians: Harri Stojka – lead guitar, Caludius Jelinek – rhythm guitar, Ivan Ruiz Machado – double bass, Heimo Wiederhofer – brush snare, Eva Berky — violin
More about the artist: https://www.harristojka.com
(PUBLISHED in Jazz Review Magazine 2005)
