FamilyFans Music

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JAMMED!

Phil Keaggy / TAG Artist Group

Fan Appeal: Teens to Adults.

Genre: Instrumental / Rock

Considered one of most admired musicians on the music scene today, Phil Keaggy has been wowing fans for more than 30 years. He has released nearly 50 solo albums, been honored with seven Dove Awards, and even garnered a Grammy nomination. His concerts continue to sell out all over America. It’s official – he’s a legend. 

His latest release, Jammed!, is a truly unique project that is sure to bring a smile and a couple of “angry-face” air-guitar moves for admirers and fans. This collection is quite a showcase of some of Phil’s well-known, amazing guitar talent. There’s a little something for fans of all kinds of instrumental electric guitar music, including rock, blues, funk and even fusion and jazz.

For the most part, this disc ROCKS! It’s one of those you will want to crank up and cruise around town with the windows down. Even if you’ve never heard of Phil Keaggy (where have you been hiding?) you’re sure to appreciate this project if you’re a fan of rock guitar virtuosos like Joe Satriani, Eric Johnson, Jeff Beck, or Steve Vai.

This impressive instrumental collection features nine remixes of songs from Phil’s Premium Jams project (1999) as well as three brand new tunes. And, you can expect the unexpected with every track, from smooth blues ("Zee Blues") to flat-out rock ("Phlanagan's Flow"). One of the surprises for me was "Prehistrobie K-18," a haunting minor-key track from the 70s when Phil was with the band Glass Harp. I really enjoyed “Joyphil” which is Phil’s interpretation of that easily-recognized melody of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.

And, there are other nice add-ons to this project as well. On the liner, you get production notes written by Phil himself that give you his thoughts and personal stories behind each of the songs. And, the guest appearances by many of Phil’s lifelong friends make this very interesting (and very tasty!) for those who follow particular players in Keaggy’s distinguished career such as drummer Keith Carlock (who plays with Sting and Steely Dan), bassist Spencer Campbell (Amy Grant), and co-founder of Glass Harp, drummer John Sferra.

If you’re a fan, this is a must-have collection – no question about that. If you just enjoy a good foot-stompin’, head-bobbin’ rocking good time, this would be a worthwhile investment. If you’re concerned that there are no “Christian lyrics” you may want to steer clear – but for me it was absolutely refreshing to be able enjoy a rockin’ good time from a brother musician who loves the Lord. I think you’ll be glad you did.

--Eric Jaqua

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