Print Reviews

Villager Critic's Pick • January 2006
Paul Kogut | 55 BAR
If you are like most people, the dawning of 06 saw you resolved to eat better, exercise regularly and hear more jazz guitar. You’re on your own with the first two, but Monday January 9th offers you a great opportunity to make good on the latter with two excellent trios. One time New Yorker Paul Kogut now resides in Chicago where he has fast ascended to the top of the guitar heap, fusing fresh language and a thorough study of the instrument to form a unique jazz voice. Following Kogut is guitar titan Mike Stern, a fixture at the 55 Bar on Monday nights for over a decade. Stern, an ultra-fluent improviser is easily one of the most influential guitarists of his generation and has worked and recorded with numerous legendary players including Miles Davis, Joe Henderson, and Jaco Pastorius.
 

Cadence Magazine • May 2005
Paul Kogut - Know It? I Wrote It! [PDF: view at 350%]
"...the music of guitarist Paul Kogut just might be the prescription needed...an impressive first time up."
 

Hot House Critic's Pick • January 2005
Paul Kogut | 55 BAR
Perhaps you heard guitarist Kogut during 1994-98, when he was involved in a graduate program at Manhattan school and gigging around town at places like the 55, Zinc Bar and Augie’s. He’s since relocated to Chicago where, he reports, playing opportunities are ample. His trio this time includes Dave Ambrosio on bass and Vinnie Sperrazza playing drums. We liked Paul’s recent CD on the BluJazz label – and especially enjoyed its title: Know It? I Wrote It!” The tunes featured aren’t all originals; covers range from “In Your Own Sweet Way” to “Can’t Buy Me Love.” But Kogut lines like “Fat Cat,” “Small Doses” and “Jay Walk” swing the hardest. PB
 

bopndicks 20 picks • January 2005
Paul Kogut - Know It? I Wrote It!
“Tasty bit of soul meshed in with the crystalized sound of Kogut’s guitar revive Sunday Bar B Q thoughts of Shirley Scott and a laid back Jeff Beck.”

Online reviews

Randy McElligott • Jazzreview.com Newsletter
Featured Artist: Paul Kogut
CD Title: Know It? I Wrote It!
Year: 2003
Record Label: Blujazz
Style: Contemporary Jazz
Musicians: Paul Kogut (guitar), Rick Montalbano (Hammond B3), Jim Johns (drums)

Review: Paul Kogut has been a mainstay on the Utica jazz scene for many years. Having played with some of the greats such as the late sax player J.R. Monterose, and organist Charles Earland to name but a few. Having learned valuable skills from guitar masters Pat Martino and Mick Goodrick, Kogut is able to incorporate his own brand of finger bending into every track on this delicious recording.

Know It? I Wrote It! is a fine example of how Kogut incorporates some of Martino's unique harmonic approach. Blending the melody in such a way as to give the piece a certain feel that is unforgettable. From the beginning phrase, that is repeated a few times, the trio settles into a swinging groove. Kogut makes use of subtle dynamics and phrasing that work well. Stretching the melody as well as an ability to leader bring out the best in the trio.

Another original up tempo piece, Small Doses is a tricky arrangement that beautifully displays the skill and dexterity that Kogut possesses. His ability to successfully weave in and out as well as around the melody, note for note and phrase for phrase is a joy to the ear.

A lovely and rich interpretation of Stella By Starlight, Kogut's fat sounding intro segues smoothly into a bright and swinging exercise in dynamics and overall fun. The trio explores the melody with verve and gusto. Of special note is Montalbano's use of staccato chords in combination with a fluid delivery.

Another original from Kogut is the georgeous ballad, Especially When It Rains. A beautifully structured guitar solo followed by Montalbano's rhythmic organ make this a satisfying listen.

Most musicians love to cover a Beatles tune or two mainly because of the melody and the chord changes. Kogut's version of Can't By Me Love is no exception. Swinging from start to finish, he leads the way with some exceptional playing. Another example of trio integration.

With admirable support from Montalbano and John's, Kogut is able to cut loose and tastefully explore different avenues. Know It? I Wrote It! is a balanced recording of up tempo and ballad arrangements worthy of repeated listening.

D. Oscar Groomes • O's Place Jazz Newsletter
Paul Kogut - Know It? I Wrote It! 3/4
O's Notes: Paul (g) leads an organ trio with Rick Montalbano (B3) and Jim Johns (d). There is an element of funk combined with cool fusion, which is established on the opener, the title track. Paul steps up on "Jay Walk" and really starts to cook on "Small Doses", a burner. The set is mostly originals with fresh melodies but also includes a few nicely done covers like "Stella By Starlight". Coming from Utica, NY, Paul now makes his home is the Windy City of Chicago. Catch him live for a cool evening.