Album Notes

Before a recent Cookin' at the Dakota performance, I was woefully unaware of Jeff Elstad, which is inexcusable for a self-proclaimed guitar freak, (especially finger-style). Mr. Elstad quickly rectified this oversight, however with a fine performance of highly original guitar compositions which sent me reeling quickly toward the jazz88 music library to audition his new cd: "Cedar Moon.” It's safe to say I was pleased. It must be rough for a fingerstyle guitarist in a Kottke/Lang/Reed/Donohue kind of burg. Whether intentional or not, Elstad wisely avoids comparisons to those lions by crafting beautiful melodies and playing them in an intimate studio setting with recording and bass assistance from Dean Christensen. Other guests include Doug Kuehn and Gary Petersen, and, always a noteworthy bonus: all compositions are original. Judging from the ecstatic reactions from Jazz88 listeners, Jeff should have success with this one. 763-553-9068 for availability info (or click on the CD title above to order online).
By Kevin O'Connor, Jazz 88fm Music Director