Search - Agent 22 :: First Witness - Live at the Belly Up

Interesting technique and solid tunes

Chipper F | Nashville, TN United States | 06/27/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Agent 22's CD "First Witness - Live at the Belly Up" is indeed one of the more interesting listens I've had recently. The combination of Chapman stick and the two-guitars-at-once style of Jimmy Patton creates a complex sound that is unlike anything I have ever heard. I have always been interested in players who pursue unorthodox playing styles (Stanley Jordan, Michael Hedges, etc.) and once again my interest is piqued. Tom Griesgraber's Chapman Stick playing on this album is excellent, Ryan Moran's drumming is solid and tastefully restrained, and Jimmy Patton provides a distinctly unique flavor to the mix. I question some of Mr. Patton's playing in that occasionally it seems a bit busy and at other times sloppy. However, it is my bet that this is in large part due to a bit more aggressive playing due to the live (and competitive) setting. I am a musician and know that, when I perform live, I tend to be more aggressive than ususal and can sometimes try to pull off more than I always can. That being said, Jimmy's minor missed notes or 32nd note backing lines are easily forgiven. In all, I would recommend anyone who enjoys truly fresh music and innovative playing to check this CD out. It's a little short but you're sure to enjoy it."

A Band That Deserves More Witnesses

Bruce Crocker | Whittier, California United States | 08/22/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"First Witness: Live At The Belly Up is a 4 to 4 1/2 star album from Agent 22, a 5 star band. The CD is a 30 minute set that Agent 22 recorded on their home turf during a local band competition. The lower price goes with the shorter length. The CD accurately reflects Agent 22's live sound and the rabid nature of their hometown fans. This all-instrumental band plays a wide variety of self-penned tunes. The highlight is the near virtuosity of Tom 'Thos' Griesgraber on the Chapman Stick. I heard [an abbreviated version with Stick and percussion of] Agent 22 the other night warming up for California Guitar Trio. The fans had driven up the coast to catch the band play. I quickly found out why the fans are so rabid. It was a 30 minute set and it was too short [just like the CD]!! These guys deserve the top billing and the longer set times. This CD is, and will always be, an artifact of the early years of Agent 22. It will be a good point of departure for comparison with the bands works to come. It is a snapshot. I think that Agent 22's self-titled debut album is a much better introduction to the sound of the band, but if you like that one, suppliment it with this one at a later date. And go to see the band when they come to a town near you. Your support will mean that these guys will be around for a while longer to make a few more CD's and play a few more shows."