Artist:     John Ginty

Album:     No Filter

Label:     American Showplace

Release Date:     07/17/2015

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For over a decade now I’ve witnessed John Ginty’s keyboard wizardry in live shows with countless bands around New Jersey and Pennsylvania.  His command of the B3 is so extraordinary that it is not hyperbolic to suggest that he is one of today’s best players on that instrument. His resume reflects it; having been an original member of Robert Randolph’s Family Band, and as a session player for many, notably Santana, Los Lonely Boys, Citizen Cope and the Dixie Chicks. Lately he has appeared on albums and performed live with his label mates on American Showplace: the Alexis P. Suter Band, Slam Allen and Todd Wolfe. This is his second full solo album as a leader, following 2013’s Bad News Travels.

Both albums feature Ginty originals and guest players but this disc is a bit more focused and shows Ginty’s growth as a songwriter as he handles both the music and lyrics.  Amidst a sound that ranges from blues to southern rock to hints of jazz, these four tracks are absolutely riveting.  Power vocalist Alexis P. Suter is utterly convincing on “Old Shoes.” Chris Jacobs, who appears on several tracks, lends his guitar and vocals to “Annandale,” a town in New Jersey where Ginty presumably grew up.  The title track features vocalist Cara Kelly and lap steel from Suter bandmate, Jimmy Bennett; as well as a full menu of swirling B3 notes and effects.  Fourthly, rapper Redman pens his own lyrics to “Fredo,” the closing track that demonstrates, as much as anything else, Ginty’s versatility.  Those of us who have seen him live and the many musicians who have joined him in the studio and on stage can attest to his technical and improvisational brilliance.  He is still growing, adding to his already impressive arsenal of musical talents.

—Jim Hynes