Randy Bachman

Randy Bachman - Randy Bachman and The New Guitar Summit: Jazzthing II - 2007 - Ranbach / Fontana

The year was 1973 and teenagers all across North America were singing their rock anthem, “Taking Care of Business,” as the radio stations blasted the hit song by Bachman-Turner Overdrive. In a lot of ways, it became a mantra for my generation. The songwriter was Randy Bachman, arguably one of the two most prolific guitarists (the other being Robbie Robertson of The Band) that Canada has ever produced. Bachman along with Burton Cummings had formerly fronted Canada’s most successful rock group ever, The Guess Who. Today Randy Bachman is still “Taking Care of Business” in a much gentler way with Jazzthing II. Bachman is joined by New Guitar Summit in his sequel to the 2002 CD Jazzthing and the 2006 DVD Jazzthing.. Jazzthing II features some of the best guitar licks you will hear, this year or any other year. Although Bachman is front and center with his take on the Jimmy McHugh and Dorothy Fields’ tune “Exactly Like You,” your jaw will drop and your ears perk up when you hear the splendid guitar work of Jay Geils, Duke Robillard and Gerry Beaudoin. It is not often that you encounter a guitar quartet, and even less often in jazz, but this foursome has set the standard for any that might follow. Bachman’s voice still sounds gruff, but what seemed like a protest three decades ago now is endearing and charming. Somewhere out there are legions of rock historians who are conjuring up images of Bachman creating revved up jazz riffs bordering on fusion. They could not be more wrong, for, with the exception of the last track (more on that later), this is one of the sweetest tastes of jazz guitar that I have experienced since I had the opportunity to review John Pizzarelli’s Dear Mr. Sinatra. One of the more delightful songs on Jazzthing II is Bachman’s original composition, “Closing Time.” Like several of the songs on Jazzthing II, “Closing Time” is a gentle ballad, a style that seems to be a comfortable environment for Bachman. Del Shannon purists, of whom I am one, may get in a snit with Bachman’s jazzed up version of “Runaway,” but if you give the fifth track a listen I guarantee you that you will be hooked---I was. For those of you who are not familiar with the name Christian Stonehouse, get used to hearing it. He is a young bright star on the music scene and was responsible for mixing and engineering this CD. This is the third project of Stonehouse’s that I have encountered and his work is excellent. If you are a young artist looking for a quality sound engineer, I would look this guy up. Could there really ever be a time when we do not associate Randy Bachman with his signature song, “Taking Care of Business?” This collection of songs closes out with a reworked version, and as the song unfolds, you are left with the impression (smile) that Bachman had to hold on tightly to the reins to keep from breaking into a rockier version of the song that filled many a heart with good memories. Randy Bachman, thirty-four years after “Taking Care of Business” first hit the airwaves, we salute you and, on behalf of your fans everywhere, we say “thank you” for bringing us more treasured memories in the form of Jazzthing II. Those who have not followed Bachman’s career in recent days may be surprised to learn that the music icon has for the past few years hosted CBC Radio’s Vinyl Tap, which can be accessed through www.randysvinyltap.com and heard on Sirius Radio, channel 137. Written by Joe Montague Saturday, 04 August 2007 C 2004 Jazz Police http://www.jazzpolice.com/content/view/7179/79/

JazzThing II presents a compelling combination of four different guitar voices: Randy Bachman and the formidable guitarists of New Guitar Summit join forces on this live-off-the-floor recording. The great Duke Robillard, Jay Geils, Gerry Beaudoin and Randy Bachman are each legendary guitarists in their own rights - through their interplay on this CD you hear the range of character the guitar can take on as each of them takes turn soloing in their unique and undeniable style. The CD features some great old jazz standards, a couple of Randy Bachman original tunes and sublime covers of the classic rock songs Runaway and Randy's signature tune Takin' Care of Business. Over 45 minutes of guitar greatness. © 2009 Ranbach Music Ltd. All rights reserved

"JazzThing II" is a great album of blues and jazz-based compositions from the legendary rock guitarist Randy Bachman and some friends including fellow axemen Duke Robillard, Gerry Beaudoin and Jay Geils. It is often forgotten that Randy Bachman is a superb jazz guitarist and his brilliant and unique finger-picking-style guitar is evident throughout the album. The musicians effortlessly play seven smooth but intricate tracks, and include classics like Jimmy McHugh's "Exactly Like You", Mose Allison's "Everybody's Cryin' Mercy," and "Your Mind Is On Vacation" as well Randy's own "Takin' Care of Business." There is also a great version of Del Shannon & Max Crook's classic "Runaway". [Philip S. Wolf in his review on Amazon.com said "This Randy Bachman playing with three other Guitar Friends: Jay Geils, Duke Robillard and Gerry Beaudon. This is NOT an Instrumental Jazz Expedition, as Randy, carries Vocal Chores here, and there are Nice Female Backing Voices. The Concept was simple: Set up, Three or Four Live Takes, Listen to the Playback, Smile, Press the CD's. This is kept in the Style of 1940's & 50's Recordings, Expert Musicians that make it all look like a Walk in the Park. With Four Guitar Greats sitting in the Studio facing-off, You would think that Somebody would be stepping on Somebody else's Toes. Nope, the Key here that is just as it's important to know what to Play, is that these Fantastic Players KNOW when NOT to play. This Music FLOWS and paints some real Cool Colors and Textures. This is not that far removed from Rock or Pop Music, there is a Groove, There are Hooks, But compared to what Music that is Forced Down our Throats by The Industry...{Sorry, This IS an Overused Comment} "Jazzthing II Is Like A Breath of Fresh Air." There are 7 Cuts on: "Jazzthing Two", and it Clocks in at 46 Minutes. Everybody mentions: "Takin' Care of Business" and The BTO Classic is Toned-Down a little bit, but for me the Guitars that close this down at the end of the Track match the Sparks set off back in the Mid 1970's. This is Different, but just as sweet. "Closing Time" is a Randy Bachman Original, and it is my favorite Number featured here..."Smooth and Breezy". "Runaway" By Del Shannon, has been covered by just about everyone, but Randy's take on this Classic makes me like the Song all over again. The Mose Allison Tunes: "Everybody's Crying Mercy" & "Your Mind is on Vacation", really fit it perfectly as this Style of Music reminds me of Mose and his late 50's and early 60's Records. You don't have to be a: "Jazzfiend" to enjoy this CD. If you liked BTO and The Guess Who, and recall that Randy played some Great Jazz whilst a member of those Two Groups, Remember: "Undun" & "Lookin' out for Number One?" This will be a pleasure to your Ears. This is Real Jazz, and It's Real Good. Four Stars !!!". ] Randy has received numerous accolades and awards, including Canada's "Order of Canada", the country's highest civilian honour for lifetime achievement. When Randy was asked which is his most prized award, he wryly answered "The one I haven't got yet." He is still in demand as a songwriter, session player and his solo works speak for themselves. "JazzThing II" is VHR by A.O.O.F.C. Listen to his 2004 "Jazz Thing", and Bachman–Turner Overdrive's "Not Fragile" albums

TRACKS / COMPOSERS

1 Exactly Like You - Jimmy McHugh, Dorothy Fields (6:03)
2 Everybody's Cryin' Mercy - Mose Allison (6:58)
3 Two Trains Runnin' - Randy Bachman, Denise McCann (6:54)
4 Closing Time - Randy Bachman (4:55)
5 Runaway - Del Shannon, Max Crook (8:14)
6 Your Mind Is on Vacation - Mose Allison (6:01)
7 Takin' Care of Business - Randy Bachman (7:02)

MUSICIANS

Randy Bachman (Guitar), (Vocals)
Duke Robillard (Guitar)
Gerry Beaudoin (Guitar)
Jay Geils (Guitar)
John Turner (Bass Acoustic)
Gordon Grottenthaler (Drums)
Lovie Eli, Denise McCann (Vocals Background)

BIO

Randolph Charles Bachman, (born September 27, 1943) was lead guitarist, songwriter and a founding member for both the 1960s-70s rock band The Guess Who, and the 1970s rock band Bachman-Turner Overdrive. Bachman was also a member of the band Brave Belt with Chad Allan and a band called Ironhorse, and has recorded numerous solo albums. Born in Winnipeg, Canada, Randy Bachman has become a legendary figure in the rock and roll world through his talents as a guitarist, songwriter, performer and producer. He has earned over 120 Gold and Platinum album/singles awards around the world for performing and producing. His songwriting has garnered him the coveted #1 spot on radio play lists in over 20 countries and he has amassed over 40 million records sold. His songs have been recorded by numerous other artists and placed in dozens of television, movie and commercial soundtracks. His music has provided a veritable soundtrack of the last thirty years of popular music. THE GUESS WHO - In 1960, Bachman and Allan co-founded Al and The Silverstones in Winnipeg. By 1962, the band changed names to Chad Allan and the Expressions and later on to The Guess Who. In 1965, the Guess Who had a #1 hit in Canada with their cover of "Shakin' All Over", which also charted in the U.S. at #22. In 1966, Chad Allan left the band and Burton Cummings became the primary vocalist. Starting in 1968, the group released three successful albums: Wheatfield Soul (1968); Canned Wheat (1969); and American Woman (1970) which brought them mainstream attention. Bachman wrote or co-wrote (primarily with Cummings) most of the groups songs during this period. In early 1970, the "American Woman" single hit #1 on the U.S. charts, a first for a band from Canada. Due to health concerns and desiring a change in lifestyle, which would include spending more time with his young family, Randy left the Guess Who at the height of their success. While this move stunned the music world, Randy knew that he could never leave music behind. He formed Brave Belt - a county rock outfit in 1970 and experimented with a new musical style and line up that eventually metamorphosed into Bachman-Turner Overdrive. BACHMAN TURNER OVERDRIVE - Bachman, formed Brave Belt - a county rock outfit in 1970 and experimented with a new musical style and line up that eventually metamorphosed into Bachman-Turner Overdrive, releasing their first self-titled album, Bachman-Turner Overdrive in May, 1973. In December, 1973, BTO released their second LP, Bachman-Turner Overdrive II, which featured the hits "Takin' Care of Business", which charted at #12 in the U.S., and "Let It Ride", which rose to #23. In 1974, they released the LP Not Fragile which hit #1 on the album charts. It also contained the #1 single "You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet" and the hit "Roll On Down The Highway" which charted at number 14. BTO stayed on the charts with their next two albums, Four Wheel Drive and Head On, through the mid-1970s. The band began to fall apart in late 1976 with the recording of the Freeways album. Randy Bachman wrote or co-wrote all but one song and sang on every song but two. The album only scraped the charts at #70 in America and had no hit singles. He then left the band in mid-March 1977. POST B.T.O. - After his depature from BTO, Randy recorded a solo album called Survivor. It did not chart in the U.S. . He formed a band with bassist/ singer Tom Sparks called Ironhorse and released its debut album in 1979. It contained the single "Sweet Lui-Louise" and the single charted at #36 in the U.S. and #26 in Canada. Sparks left after the tour for this album and was replaced by Bob Ludwig. Ironhorse, with Ludwig, released another album, Everything Is Grey, in 1980. In 1981, Fred Turner joined Ironhorse and the band changed its name to Union. BTO had broken up in early 1980. Union released one album before disbanding. REUNIONS - Randy joined The Guess Who reunion in 1983 with Burton Cummings and other members of the American Woman era. They did a tour of Canada and released a live video performance of it. Once The Guess Who reunion ended, Randy rejoined a new BTO reunion, consisting of Randy, Fred Turner, Tim Bachman, and Garry Peterson of The Guess Who on drums. Robin Bachman and classic line up guitarist Blair Thornton could not join the reunion. Randy stayed with with this version of the band until 1987 and they put out an album in 1984. The classic Not Fragile line-up reformed in 1988 and they toured together until 1991 when Randy left the group. It would be the last time he played with BTO. The Guess Who reunited, including Randy, on August 8, 1999. Randy played on several tours with The Guess Who until July 31, 2003. Both he and Burton Cummings left the band and formed Bachman Cummings. They are currently on tour together in Canada. In 2000, he made a guest appearance on The Simpsons as himself with his former Bachman-Turner Overdrive bandmates, C.F. Turner and Robin Bachman. Simpsons creator Matt Groening (whose father is originally from Winnipeg), is a well known BTO fan. Homer Simpson yells at Bachman to "get to the working overtime part" while playing "Takin' Care of Business". In 2001 Bachman received an honorary Doctorate of Music from Brandon University in Brandon, Manitoba along with the other members of the Guess Who. In 2005 Bachman was awarded the Order of Manitoba, the highest award in the Province of Manitoba. Bachman, along with The Guess Who, was also the recipient of The Governor General’s Performing Arts Award, Canada's foremost distinction for excellence in the performing arts, in 2002. In 2008, he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada. Bachman travels the world with his wife Denise to write with many European songwriters, including Douglas Carr (producer of the Swedish band Ace of Base) and Michael Saxell in Sweden. Bachman has also performed with Swedish rockers The Soundtrack of Our Lives and appears on a vinyl picturedisc with them from a live performance at Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada's Commodore Ballroom in 2004. Since the summer of 2005, Bachman created and is currently hosting the series Vinyl Tap on CBC Radio One, where he tells stories about music and musicians while playing appropriate recordings. Randy helped Kalan Porter on his CD 219 Days. He suggested that Kalan do a drone on his violin on one of his songs, In Spite Of It All. He was also featured in his song, And We Drive, playing a guitar solo near the end of the song. Bachman tours with his own band, the Randy Bachman Band and the Bachman-Cummings Band. He has also created a popular theatre show he calls "Every Song Tells A Story" featuring Bachman live and unplugged with his band, telling the stories behind the writing of his famous hits from the 1960s and 70s. Randy Bachman and Burton Cummings toured throughout Canada as Bachman & Cummings in the summer of 2006 with Toronto, Ontario, Canada's, The Carpet Frogs. Randy Bachman has also released an album of original melodic jazz songs called "Jazz Thing" which is available on his official website.Bachman's coast-to-coast CBC Radio One show Vinyl Tap, featuring Bachman playing audio recordings and reminiscing about his personal encounters with famous artists and musicians from his 50-year career in rock, runs from 7-9 p.m. every Saturday night and can be accessed via the CBC Radio One web site and Sirius channel 137. There is a replay of the Saturday show on the following Friday night at 11 pm. Streaming audio of the show is available through the internet in every Canadian time zone at http://www.cbc.ca/listen/ Although Randy and Fred turner are working on new songs for Randy's album, Randy has been noted for trying to put a Bachman-Turner Overdrive reunion together. However, the only former members of BTO that have been in any known discussions are Fred Turner and Randy Bachman. RANDY - Randy's career has been built upon his unstoppable drive to work at creating music. He has released numerous solo albums throughout his career, and has simultaneously worked at producing for other artists. His production/writing work with Canadian rock band Trooper generated gold and platinum record in the 1970's. His love of guitar music and a desire to support some unsung and legendary guitar greats including his early mentor Lenny Breau, led him to found the jazz guitar record label Guitarchives which rescues and releases otherwise lost archival guitar music. As well he founded Ranbach Music, a label which releases archival Guess Who recordings, and other material which never made it to CD. [This page was last modified 15:39, 5 July 2009 - from & © http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/wiki/index.php/Randy_Bachman ]