Album Notes

The Music

This new release from LBP focuses on the interaction and sonic possibilities of the classical guitar and acoustic bass in a jazz setting. Songs from the jazz repertoire have been highly arranged in a duo setting in order to create unique and memorable performances. Techniques such as arco and harmonics, as well as liberal reharmonizations, have been used throughout. The adventurous improvisation and extensive interaction between these two excellent musicians has produced a rich, exciting record, yet the integrity of the melody and the mood of each piece is never lost.

The music was recorded live with no isolation between the instruments. There were no overdubs or fixes, which has resulted in an organic, cohesive sound. The CD has been mastered and the order carefully selected by the artists. We hope that the listening experience is as satisfying as the creative process was. Enjoy the music!

The Musicians

Jim Hershman: Guitar

Jim Hershman, born in 1961, has been playing guitar professionally for over 20 years. He has performed and/or recorded with a variety of artists including Lee Konitz, Jimmy Webb, Howard Alden, Milt Jackson and Eric von Essen. Jim has appeared on dozens of recordings, including four with the Clayton/Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. As a member of CHJO, Jim has appeared at the Hollywood Bowl as Artist in Residence during this past summer. He has also recorded albums with his group, The Other Quartet, and has recorded a new CD with Lee Konitz. He is currently on tour with Les Miserables.

Eric von Essen: Bass

Born in 1954, Eric von Essen left a remarkable legacy of music before his untimely death in 1997. After studying at UCLA, he made his musical mark in the jazz community of Los Angeles. As a member of the acclaimed Quartet Music, he contributed as composer and bassist to four recordings. He also played and recorded with such masters as Lou Levy, Bob Brookmeyer, Tom Garvin and Jimmy Rowles. Mr. von Essen has left a deep and lasting impression on all of us who knew him.

"Jim is an assured, seasoned jazz guitarist who is really contributing something." - John Clayton

"Small Talk is a testament to a rare musical relationship, and it serves as a rewarding remembrance of the spirited, fertile relationship Jim Hershman and Eric von Essen shared through music." - Dr. Herb Wong (IAJE)

"Jim is an all around musician. He's developed into a class player...a great jazz player." - Gene Bertoncini