John Scofield digs into roots with first solo guitar album

The choice to make it an eponymous album represents its significance to John Scofield, as he digs deep into his formative roots and the musical heroes of his youth. “When I was a kid the guitar was the instrument of rock ‘n’ roll and popular music — that’s what I was interested in,” Scofield says. Whether it’s tributes to his rock ‘n’ roll heroes like Buddy Holly and Hank Williams or his own compositions, he approaches the songs with the melodic singability of timeless jazz standards. In this release, Scofield continues to stay true to the jazz traditions he’s observed and participated in over the years.

“I never think about ideas when I write music,” Scofield says. “Instrumental music exists in a different part of your brain. It’s not about an idea that can be described with language or visually. Music exists in its own place.”

Scofield says this new work aims to paint a complete portrait of John Scofield, curated with the music and influences that shaped his identity as a musician.

Here’s the track listing:

1. Coral
2. Honest I Do
3. It Could Happen to You
4. Danny Boy
5. Elder Dance
6. Mrs. Scofield’s Waltz
7. Junco Partner
8. There Will Never Be Another You
9. My Old Flame
10. Not Fade Away
11. Since You Asked
12. Trance de Jour
13. You Win Again

John Scofield will be released May 6, 2022, via ECM.