Brazilian music has been an addiction of mine since the early 1960’s, when I first heard Jobim and the Getz/Gilberto collaborations. Naturally I was quite eager to give Ed Johnson’s new project THE OTHER ROAD a listen when it arrived in my mailbox. I’m extremely pleased to report that it has quickly become a current favorite in my player. This Palo Alto, California native has assembled an impressive band of musicians here to support his brilliant guitar and vocal artistry, and together they absolutely nail the great vibrancy, romance and beauty of this amazing music. Mr. Johnson puts it succinctly when he says, “…I constantly strive to pay homage to the music that has inspired me over a lifetime…” He succeeds glowingly on this, his fourth solo album. All songs are originals, composed all or in part by him and members of his band. The moods range from the soft and sweet “Song for My Daughter” and “Chorar” to the unbridled exuberance of “Samba 2 Tom” and “View from Above,” the latter tune written by electric guitarist Scott Sorkin. In keeping with Mr. Johnson’s theme of “roads taken, roads left behind, and roads that diverge,” the lyrics on some material have bite and astute social commentary, with titles such as “Katrina” and the anti-war “Bolero: Solo a Vivir.” Taken as a whole, Ed Johnson & Novo Tempo’s THE OTHER ROAD is a completely entrancing journey into all that makes Brazilian music so timeless and captivating. I love this album! ~SCOTT O'BRIEN

I received a friend request from Ed, and had no idea the first song on his player, Samba 2 Tom, would capture my ear in 2 measures. It's the music of a mystical spirit converged with the essence of this new legacy of brazilian-influenced jazz that will keep generations tied to the tradition of this very emphatic breed of style. The music, band, and quality of the work is superb. I guarantee you that it worth the buy. Music like this is typically a concert for hundreds of dollars, and the value of it will not deppreciate over time like most modern music. This will last for generations! w.k

My kind of music. Many pieces are reminiscent of Brazilian musician/composer, Ivan Lins work. I purchase music that is relative to my own writing and musical taste and this CD fits perfectly. Wonderful music Ed!

I have for years wanted to go ahead and purchase some of Ed's CDs but time, etc. So now I got THREE and this is my FAVORITE. It's solid, fresh, and beautiful. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!