International Jazz Banjo Newsletter

Sean Moyses, one of Europe’s premiere four-string banjoists, has recently released his latest recording – "Banjo Power!" In listening to the recording, two words come to mind: quality and variety! This is an exceptionally well done CD on many levels. First and foremost, Sean is an excellent plectrum player. He also has an understanding of what appeals to a wide range of listenership. The combination makes for a banjo recording well worth having.
"Banjo Power" was recorded in a professional studio with some terrific musicians in addition to Sean. The result is an overall sound that’s full and well balanced. Each tune has its own strengths and nuances, no matter what the instrumentation.
Do you like verses? Most of the tunes on this CD have the verse! This is really nice for those of us trying to track verses down. Sean sings a bunch of them – and he has a super voice for the 1920’s style tunes.
Sean also glides effortlessly from tune to tune and banjo style to banjo style. "Banjo Power!" opens with the standard "Runnin’ Wild" utilizing the rarely heard bass saxophone to fill in the bottom end. A nice banjo chord melody lead by Sean develops into a creative chord and single-string improvisation. Then he throws in an unexpected key change! Overall, the tune is very satisfying to the ear.
The second number, "Doll Dance," has a completely different feel to it from the first tune. "Doll Dance" is much slower and edges toward ragtime. Then Sean musically changes everything again! He moves from the banjo to a National plectrum guitar and sings "I’ve Got A Feeling I’m Falling." Great tune and excellent instrumentation!
Each tune on "Banjo Power!" has something noticeably different as part of it. "It’s Only A Paper Moon" has a beautiful plectrum guitar introduction, "Button Up Your Overcoat" has the seldom-used verse, "Hard Hearted Hannah" is played on baritone uke ,"Crazy Jo" is played on the plectrum banjo with the bass sax, "Tea For Two" is played solo with an amazingly light touch on the banjo including the verse, and so on. You get the idea!
There’s also a special original piece composed by Sean titled "Ukulele Tagliatelli." If you listen closely to the tune, you’ll hear some fascinating chord changes, timing and playing dexterity.
Bottom line: "Banjo Power" is a special recording. To the casual listener, the variety of tunes and instrumentation on this CD will keep toes tapping. The more advanced banjoist will want this CD for musical ideas, verses, key changes and performing talent. Way to go, Sean. You have a true winner in "Banjo Power!"
"Banjo Power!" can be ordered directly from Sean. Go to: CDs@SeanMoyses.com or visit www.SeanMoyses.com.