Guestbook
archive 9. This archive takes us from January 2008 through December 2008. Return to
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here.
Earlier this month, Blaine Fallis turned me on to the Steve Khan
recording "THE SUITCASE" with Dennis Chambers and Anthony Jackson, recorded live to 2-track in Germany, in 1994. Fast forward a few
weeks: My wife gave it to me as a Christmas gift. This has to be one of the best recordings I've ever heard. The production/engineering is fantastic, but the music is just plain incredible! The trio was definitely "on" that night. It's jazz, it's fusion, it's rock, it's a little progressive, and it almost gets a little "classical" at times(just a little, and almost!). And, Anthony Jackson will change how you conceptualize the bass, at least he has influenced me - and this recording is a superb example of the genius that is A.J.! Of course, Steve and Dennis Chambers are a huge part of the equation. I'll just finish by saying that I would have been content with this CD as my only gift. My wife gave me a couple of really nice, very useful items, but this CD is IT. Highly recommended!! Jon
Jon McMillan
Albuquerque, NM - Monday, December 28, 2008 at 15:26:16 (EST)
Steve: Just a huge thank you for the great set of 2 CDs that "THE SUITCASE" is. I have waited a while, with it on order, but it was well worth it, especially as I love Anthony's and Dennis' playing alongside your unique and distinctive sound, and approach. Happy Holidays again!! Harry
Harry Howell
Douglas, Isle of Man U.K. - Monday, December 15, 2008 at 13:50:58 (EST)
Steve: Could you possibly explain to me WHY "THE SUITCASE" was not nominated for a Grammy this year? To me, it was surely the best release of the year. But, if not that, it was certainly one of the Top 5. How can an injustice like this happen? Thanks for the great, great music. L.M.
Lamont Markham
Birmingham, AL USA - Saturday, December 06, 2008 at 20:10:34 (EST)
Hi Steve: I met you years ago, when you were playing duos with Larry Coryell, and gigging with the Breckers - at venues such as Grendel's Lair, The Main Point, and the Bijou Café. Thought you were great then, but lost touch, and continue to hope that you will play in Philly sometime soon. Looking forward to checking out some of the recent recordings, as well as the books.
John B.
Philadelphia, PA USA - Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 17:55:49 (EST)
Dear Steve: At the risk of sounding redundant, I must echo all the praise here and elsewhere for "THE SUITCASE." Simply put, it is a fantastic recording. The band is "other-worldly." I have given several out as gifts to my friends, and they have all expressed considerable appreciation for such incredible music. The sound quality is excellent, your playing is fantastic, and your sidemen are, well, possibly the two greatest living musicians out there. Thanks so much for making this great music available. "THE SUITCASE" easily gets my vote for the best release of the year. THANKS!!!
David Rolon
Berkeley, CA USA - Monday, November 10, 2008 at 02:14:32 (EST)
Hi Steve: I first heard your playing on "PUBLIC ACCESS" years ago, when I was studying engineering at university - it became one of my favourite albums at the time - and, it still is! Thanks for the music - but even more thanks for your books, and Khan's Korner. Being an engineer, I like to understand what I'm playing (and I also find the theoretical sides to it fascinating, i.e. WHY does that solo sound so good?!!) - so I really appreciate your analytical approach. What you've presented at the Korner would make an amazing book - better than most in my (too large) collection! Not only are they interesting to read in themselves, but they really give insight into approaches to improvisation.
I've had a few unsuccessful attempts to learn jazz guitar, but in the last three years it has come together - your teachings have really helped me move up from a basic level of playing and understanding. So, many thanks! Peter
Peter Cook
Cambridge, England - Tuesday, October 28, 2008 at 08:56:27 (EDT)
Wow! Great to find that you have your own site. I've been a big fan for sometime. I'm trying to get your earlier material on CD. Had the vinyl at one time. And, thanks for the transcriptions with the soundfiles. You've done this working and practicing guitarist a HUGE service. Thank you very much. Darrell
Darrell Curtis
Athens, GA USA - Monday, September 29, 2008 at 13:46:40 (EDT)
Your new CD, "THE SUITCASE" is SICK!!! I listened to "Guy Lafleur" ten times last night. You guys kill those tunes! Dennis is the sh%t! I have bought and given away so many "CASA LOCO" CDs that I don't remember the number.
And, it is so nice of you to write these parts out, and put the tunes up on your website. Thank you so much. Your books with CDs are really some of the best explanations of jazz guitar I have ever seen too. I use them for Christmas gifts for other guitarists I meet. Best regards, Craig
Craig Parrish
Torrance, CA USA - Friday, September 26, 2008 at 17:21:38 (EDT)
Steve: I finally got a chance to listen to "THE SUITCASE" during some recent travel - I got to listen to each of the two CDs, without interruption, at a nice loud volume through some good headphones. Steve, this is a phenomenal album - this is the best(and though it's over 10 years old - the freshest) guitar trio album I have heard in a long time.
Many of the compositions are familiar to me from your other recordings, but they reach a new level with this set - your tone, voicings and lines are a joy to listen to, and Anthony and Dennis(esp. Dennis!) floor me with their unbelievable technique and musicality - and the tightness of the group as a whole is really astounding. I'm glad this live set came out, Steve - it's definitely one to be proud of. Thanks,
Max
Max Smith
Louisville, KY USA - Friday, September 19, 2008 at 21:43:51 (EDT)
Hola Steve!! ¿Qué tal mi amigo? Have not been on the site for quite sometime. Down here in Florida, holding my breath and biting my nails. It's HURRICANE season! When the weather gets bad, I pull out my "CHORD KHANCEPTS" book & guitar to calm my nerves. Hope you get down to Florida one day for a concert. Adios!!
D. Adonis
Tampa, FL USA - Friday, August 29, 2008 at 13:45:50 (EDT)
Steve, I wanted to follow-up my earlier praise for "BORROWED TIME" by telling you were right - "THE SUITCASE" is one of the best trio recordings I've ever heard! Amazing music! Up there with my favorite trio recordings: Jim Hall Live; Sonny Rollins at the Vanguard; and, Bill Evans at the Vanguard. So much music! The intensity is amazing. Hard to believe it all came from one night. Just incredible stuff! I'm amazed and blown away. Thank you for this.
Victor Magnani
Staten Island, NY USA - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at 15:35:37 (EDT)
Just received "THE SUITCASE" from Amazon. Absolutely amazing Steve! Thanks so much for releasing this wonderful concert. The empathy is amazing, as is the recording quality. First time I've heard Dennis this "restrained", tho' he most assuredly is NOT! It was/is a perfect example of "restrained-frenzy." Of course, Anthony is great, but your playing is just about perfection. Truly incredible music by all 3 of you. Congratulations!
Al Hospers
North Conway, NH USA - Saturday, August 09, 2008 at 21:01:03 (EDT)
Steve, just bought "BORROWED TIME" yesterday. Congratulations, I love this music. I've also read your comments at the Discography page. Very interesting how this all came to be. I'm a big drummer fan, and have come to love Jack DeJohnette over the recent years, mainly by listening to the Keith Jarrett Trio. And, it was so nice of you, and fitting, to dedicate this CD to Michael Brecker. Again, I was a huge fan! Thanks for the style and feel of your music. John
John Smart
Louisville, KY USA - Friday, August 08, 2008 at 17:13:25 (EDT)
By the way, I picked up "THE SUITCASE" recently and I have to say that it is the "tightest" live album I have ever heard.
Best Regards....
Larry Jensen
Green Bay, WI USA - Friday, August 08, 2008 at 07:32:04 (EDT)
Dear Steve, My condolences regarding the passing of the great Joe Beck. I figured that you two were fast friends; it was the "Tele"s that gave it away. Now, to find out that both of you were once Super 400 guys. Fabulous!
Andy Delgado
Gilbert, AZ USA - Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at 17:02:42 (EDT)
Greetings Steve, I just wanted to say a big BRAVO!!!!!!!! concerning "THE SUITCASE." I've been listening to your studio recordings for years, but this live recording takes the cake. Great, great sounding trio performances! Thank you for releasing this most excellent and generous collection!
Reid Whitton
Syracuse, NY USA - Wednesday, July 16, 2008 at 17:27:49 (EDT)
Mr. Khan,
Are any of your albums from the '70s and '80s available on CD? I agree with lots of the other compliments to you - the variety and intensity of your music, along with the great sidemen - timeless! Take care, and continued success.
Michael Herman
Michael Herman
New York, NY USA - Wednesday, July 09, 2008 at 07:52:09 (EDT)
I just checked out your MySpace page, and your website. You seem to be a cool guy, and it seems like we share the same opinions. I have never seen you perform live though. I hope to someday. May you live a long and healthy life. Thanks
Richard Koch
Reading, PA USA - Monday, July 07, 2008 at 23:11:58 (EDT)
Hi Steve, I've been listening to "THE SUITCASE" for a week now, and I can't tell you how much I'm enjoying it. Well done, sir! I had almost forgotten how much I like your compositional and improvisational ideas, and you never failed, on this recording, to take each piece to a different place. Also, it definitely has the "end of the tour" quality, where everyone is supporting everyone else effortlessly - all of the music has its own identity, standing apart from the original versions. And Dennis plays like it's his last chance to do so! It's been a long time coming, and it's nice to finally hear the recording. Hope you're doing well. Best, Robert
Robert Tye
Birmingham, MI USA - Wednesday, July 02, 2008 at 16:44:10 (EST)
Steve - Thank you for many years of great music....and by the way, I'm glad to meet someone else who hates the Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Lakers (go Celtics!) and Notre Dame football. New York Giants and Yankees RULE! :-)
Lane Stowe
Lancaster, PA USA - Thursday, June 05, 2008 at 22:50:49 (EDT)
Dear Steve! This is the second great "Köln Konzert" in Jazz history!! And I was there!!!!(missed Keith's gig :-)
All the best, yours - Stephan
Stephan Scheuss
Köln, Germany - Sunday, June 01, 2008 at 16:53:40 (EDT)
What can I say? Everyone, I MEAN everyone that I turn on to listen when I play the CDs at work, asks "Who is this?" In my book, you are in your own class. Let me just say that "PUBLIC ACCESS" is in my TOP 3 of all time. Last thing, I do not know of any CD that I have ever listened to more.
Gregory C. Bardakos
San Jose, CA USA - Wednesday, May 28, 2008 at 22:34:10 (EDT)
To one of the best ever! Thanks for all the great music!
Steve F.
San Francisco, CA USA - Tuesday, May 27, 2008 at 15:35:33 (EDT)
Even though "THE SUITCASE" is a live recording, and as you wrote, to be heard only once, I can listen this 1994 Köln concert again and again. Congratulations for the best music trio.
José Javier Coz
Guadalajara, Jalisco Mexico - Friday, May 16, 2008 at 17:42:01 (EDT)
Dear Steve: Thank you for your great inspiration & information through so many years. All the best, Kosho
Kosho
Mannheim, Germany - Saturday, May 10, 2008 at 16:07:25 (EDT)
I need to catch-up on your recordings. I've got your CD's up until the 1991 "LET'S CALL THIS" release. Problem here is the availability of your music in Minneapolis. I'll probably buy them from you. "CROSSINGS" and "BORROWED TIME" are in my crosshairs. What do you recommend? And please don't say, "Hey, buy them all!" Whadayatink, I'm made of money? :>) -- A.K.
Andy Kotz
Monticello, MN USA - Thursday, May 08, 2008 at 14:05:40 (EDT)
Hey Steve, I just got "THE SUITCASE" and I love it. I thought Steve Jordan was a genius, but good God, Dennis Chambers is an animal! Best regards, Dave
Dave Mallon
Rehoboth Beach, DE USA - Friday, May 02, 2008 at 09:50:26 (EDT)
Wow! What a goldmine of information. This is great for a student/music teacher.
Toni Silva
El Sobrante, CA USA - Thursday, May 01, 2008 at 11:30:49 (EDT)
Hi Steve! HAPPY BIRTHDAY my dear friend. God bless you.
Wagner Souza
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Tuesday, April 29, 2008 at 10:54:13 (EDT)
Happy Birthday!
Hywel Davies
Swansea, U.K. - Monday, April 28, 2008 at 10:18:03 (EDT)
Happy Birthday to you again and again, Steve.
Olga Cecilia López
Medellín, Antioquia Colombia - Monday, April 28, 2008 at 08:03:25 (EDT)
"THE SUITCASE" has been on high rotation since I took delivery two days ago. Being a drummer over the years, I have tended to 'fall in love' with what bass players have to say, and Anthony, my God, he is a true Genius, and this is a true representation of his brilliance on this recording, and what's more from 14 years back! Why isn't he heard playing this way more often...the intro to "The Suitcase" is incredible...Bach and Messiaen all beautifully molded together with that 'Anthony' sense of intensity, dynamic, sonority and love for his instrument.
I have in the past tended to steer clear of drummers, as there are so many drummer's drummers and the field of playing styles seems to get smaller and more shallow in depth of interest and music. Dennis is incredible, and has turned my head around on this. What an amazing musician. Then you.... Well you've found such amazing ways of creating such intelligent, open minded and seriously hip, stylish, and emotionally strong forms of music. Not only from the early Eyewitness tunes/arrangements, but also from your recent work with John and Jack. The way you play melodies in that pianistic style and how you bend the tune....fantastic. Your sound is unique, and I am always inspired to get such a warm texture of sound when I play marimba or vibes with the orchestra (Sydney Symphony).
Please keep sharing such great music with the world...we need it. I did have one question regarding "THE SUITCASE" - Where was Manolo? He brings such a 'Manolo World' to your music. I missed him! Best to you,
Philip South
Sydney, NSW, Australia - Thursday, April 24, 2008 at 03:30:28 (EST)
I received "THE SUITCASE" some days ago by mail order, and it sounds absolutely great! Every single note that you three played is perfectly audible, and the balance fits the musical balance between the instruments. Especially Anthony Jackson seems closer than ever. And what a great concert it was. I'm glad that I was there in '94, but it's also great having the possibility of listening to all the nuances over and over again. I like the live versions of some of my favorites, like "The Suitcase" or "Blades." The ballads "Melancholee" and "Dedicated To You" are very touching, with breathtaking atmosphere. Not to mention the excellent interplay of you three. And thanks for putting 2 x 75 minutes of music on the CD - it is going to take quite a while listening to all the pieces with the proper attention required. I think I will keep discovering new things for a long time to come.
Peter Klose
Dortmund, Germany - Sunday, April 20, 2008 at 15:48:24 (EST)
Hello Steve: Just want to send my appreciation for "THE SUITCASE".....Love it!!
Steve Fondario
San Francisco, CA - Friday, April 18, 2008 at 17:00:12 (EST)
Briefly, Steve, I'm listening to "THE SUITCASE" at work(instead of finishing up my overdue engineering projects). Great sound quality! And Anthony's contrabass is the perfect fit for your trio format(I especially like 'What I'm Said'). Congrats on this, and your Grammy nomination.
Wayne W.
Sunnyvale, CA - Tuesday, April 15, 2008 at 14:09:50 (EST)
Hi Steve: Just finished listening to Disc 1 of "THE SUITCASE" and I had to write to say how wonderful it is! I couldn't stop smiling. I was reminded of how the Eyewitness music grabbed me in the first place, but this isn't merely a trip down memory lane. Way beyond chops, etc. and into the realm of pure communication and connection between hearts, instruments and players. The recording really gives a detailed portrait of each man - the whole man, not just the player. Your very personal liner notes set the tone for a portrait of artists as complete human beings - who also happen to be a bunch of BMFs!! I've learned much about the connection between being a player and a person with integrity from people like you. Gotta take a breather before I listen to Disc 2! With much respect and gratitude.
Joe Potenza
No. Providence, RI - Monday, April 14, 2008 at 23:36:31 (EST)
Dear Steve, when I saw "THE SUITCASE"(Live in Köln), I had no doubts in my mind: Buy it right away. And what a SUPERGREAT album indeed!!!!!!!!!!! I just want to let you know what a great, great record "THE SUITCASE" is. Great band, great tunes. Everything is just perfect. Pure pleasure and great art. Every tune is tied to the next, just like a conversation full of interesting phrases. THANK YOU AGAIN STEVE KHAN.
Milo Albonico
Nice, France - Thursday, April 10, 2008 at 16:56:56 (EST)
Hi, Steve! I purchased this afternoon "THE SUITCASE." I'm blown away! This is an extraordinary moment, captured live! I don't need to buy many CDs, just good ones, and this is the second in 2008, after "GUITARS TWO" by Philip Catherine. What happens in "THE SUITCASE" reminds me of "PICK HITS LIVE" by Scofield, but surely it comes from Dennis Chambers. OK, it's different, but it's the same energy. You are so TOGETHER all the time. It covers so many different styles, moods. Well, I'm so HAPPY!!!!!! - Best regards! Christian
Christian Devot
Strasbourg, France - Friday, April 04, 2008 at 19:03:33 (EST)
Wishing you the best of everything, I send you a massive greeting from here!!!
God bless! Love, Roberta
Roberta
Roma, Italy - Wednesday, April 02, 2008 at 14:27:08 (EST)
Steve - Just got a copy of "THE SUITCASE" - absolutely outstanding performances all around. Steve, please come to Arizona......we need you!!!!
Andy Delgado
Gilbert, AZ USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at 13:28:16 (EST)
Steve: I have to honestly say that I love this CD. Dennis Chambers just blows me away with his superb drumming from the outset. And Anthony Jackson, running the scales all over Hell's half-acre, and so down low, it's freaking awesome to listen to. And all this from just 3 guys! As for the title track? After listening for 5 minutes to all that fun you guys were having - it breaks into this awesome tune that, frankly Steve, you should run with. Reproduce that sound, that track, in concert and you will be a Jazz GOD!!! The best thing is that I already knew all the tunes and listening to it live (or as live as I'll ever hear it) is nothing short of...(I need a word here)...it's kind of exciting! If you ever play live, let me know. Congrats!
Claude Carlson
Orion, MI USA - Saturday, March 22, 2008 at 18:06:36 (EST)
Dear Steve, I recently purchased your CD, "THE SUITCASE", and, after reading the liner notes, I have to confess that I had a bootleg recording of this CD before it was released. I did purchase the legit recording, and I have to say, it is indeed an incredible show. The interplay between Anthony, Dennis and yourself is amazing, and very fluid. I thank you for releasing this.
Jason Clemons
Plymouth, MN USA - Friday, March 21, 2008 at 22:25:58 (EST)
On our way home from Huntsville, AL back to Muscle Shoals, AL, we heard this tune that captivated me called "What I'm Said", really! The title says it all, and I have not heard such a funky Be-Bop tune in a while. I have other CDs by you but this one is the coolest to me by far. Thanks for the mix, you are "the Man"!
Al Reynolds
Florence, AL USA - Sunday, March 16, 2008 at 21:11:27 (EST)
Hi Steve. I've just bought "THE SUITCASE," and it's great! The playing of all three of you is outstanding. It's really nice to hear your compositions in a live setting. The energy is phenomenal. I'm a professional bass-player, and a life-long A.J. fan. His playing is incredible, as ever. Many thanks, and best regards from London. P.S. When are you gonna play in London?
Rob Levy
London, England - Tuesday, March 11, 2008 at 07:32:16 (EST)
Steve - Thanks for making "THE SUITCASE" available for us. I've been looking for anything Eyewitness related since the 1980s when I first heard "BLADES." To have a current live recording(and a DOUBLE CD, no less!) is just wonderful. You guys personify the group improvisational spirit.
Cone Beckham
Richmond, CA USA - Monday, March 10, 2008 at 17:59:57 (EST)
Dear Mr. Khan: The CD, "THE SUITCASE" is GREAT!! I like your music and sound. Please come and gig again in Tokyo!! Please!!
Kaoru Tomiyama
Tokyo, Japan - Sunday, March 09, 2008 at 12:00:54 (EST)
Congratulations on the release of "THE SUITCASE." I just got it yesterday and I've been listening to it ever since. Glad to see "Dr. Slump," an all-time favorite, on there, as well as "What I'm Said." Thank you again for the gift of your music.
Gregg Ivers
Bethesda, MD USA - Saturday, March 08, 2008 at 21:33:16 (EST)
Steve, I heard a tune of yours called "Bad Asses"(Is that correct?) on Russ Davis' "BEYOND JAZZ" Channel on XM Satellite. It was very funky and I'm wondering what disc/album is that from? The tune sounded like it might be Dennis Chambers(with a double bass drum/or double pedal at least). It did not have any prominent guitar parts with your distinctive tone/style, and this had me scratching my head. Thanks, Joel [Well Joel, what you actually heard was the tune "Blades" which appears on "THE SUITCASE" w/ Anthony Jackson & Dennis Chambers. I'm thrilled that you liked what you heard!!!]
Joel Williams
Asheville, NC USA - Monday, March 03, 2008 at 20:22:23 (EST)
What's it mean for one individual to openly and honestly tell you that he gets you? Everything. Thanks for your music and insight into living this thing. Matt
Matt Mercer
Aberdeen, MD USA - Tuesday, February 19, 2008 at 22:29:55 (EST)
Steve, I am glad to see your live disc coming out next month. I'll be pre-ordering it from Abstract Logix. Although I am not a Giants fan, I was pulling for them to bring the Patriots (and their fans) down a notch. The best Super Bowl since Elway and company beat the Packers (imo). It's cool to hear your son is working for the Coyotes organ I zation (that's Canadian for organization). I'm a huge ice hockey supporter and Avalanche fan. You must be a big fan as well based on the titles of a couple of your tunes. Well, it's great to see you doing well with the last couple of recordings. I wish you continued success and congratulations and good luck with the Grammy nomination. Any chance "CASA LOCO" will be re-released? I have it on vinyl, but missed out on the CD release. Take care, Dave Z.
Dave Z.
San Antonio, TX USA - Thursday, February 07, 2008 at 13:24:21 (EST)
Glad to find your site! I'm looking for your early albums on CD or mp3. I still have the vinyl. Need to convert them. :-)
Mark Tennant
Phoenix, AZ USA - Thursday, January 31, 2008 at 23:43:35 (EST)
Just got your "BORROWED TIME" CD, really enjoying it! Thought it was Scofield when I heard the first cut("I Mean You") on the radio. Great playing and sound.
Manny González
Miami, FL USA - Tuesday, January 15, 2008 at 12:49:15 (EST)
Steve: I want to wish you Felices Fiestas y Happy New Year!!!
L D Adonis
Tampa, FL USA - Friday, January 04, 2008 at 10:22:26 (EST)