The Los Angeles-based saxophonist, composer, and Grammy-winning producer discusses the creative philosophies and inspirations that led to his unique album, Unusual Object.
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Today, the Spotlight shines On Josh Johnson, the Los Angeles-based saxophonist, composer, multi-instrumentalist, and Grammy Award-winning producer.
Josh joined me earlier this year to talk about his second solo album, Unusual Object, which came out this past April on Northern Spy Records. Equal parts futuristic jazz and modern composition, Josh uses processed saxophone and subtle samples in his unique compositions.
In addition to examining Unusual Object, we discussed the relevance and impact of genre classifications in music, how Josh’s Grammy has led to more opportunities and connections in various music communities, the impact of Chicago’s artistic community on Josh’s development as a musician, courage in the pursuit of creative avenues, and of course, it would not be an episode of Spotlight On if we did not dig into process. So we did.
Josh will be at the Village Vanguard in New York from October 29 through November 3 with Vibraphonist Joel Ross’s Good Vibes ensemble. It should be a good one.
(The musical excerpts heard in the interview are from Josh Johnson’s album Unusual Object)
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0:00 - Introduction
1:41 - Alternative Jazz & Genre Classifications
2:54 - Grammy Impact & Musical Communities
5:24 - Josh's Musical Roles
6:35 - The Power of Curiosity
7:09 - Early Musical Influences
9:33 - Chicago's Musical Legacy
10:53 - The Los Angeles Journey
13:29 - Wayne Shorter's Wisdom
17:11 - Composition Process
25:05 - Paul Bryan Collaboration
27:25 - Album Deep Dive
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Visit Josh Johnson at → https://www.joshjohnsonmusic.com/)
Follow Josh Johnson on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/joshuaajohn
Purchase Unusual Object at Northern Spy Records → https://northernspyrecs.com/product/unusual-object
Qobuz → https://www.qobuz.com/nl-nl/album/unusual-object-josh-johnson/yrpspz1wrac1a
Bandcamp → https://joshjohnsonmusic.bandcamp.com/album/unusual-object
and listen on your streaming platform of choice → https://album.link/i/1720457899
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Be sure to check out The Tonearm, our new magazine site featuring fascinating perspectives and conversations with creative people → https://www.thetonearm.com
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