Element of Surprise by James Durst

The songs are nimbly supported by such gifted musicians as Rock and Roll Hall of Famer John Sebastian and folk favorite Reggie Harris (on 'Not Another Gun'), drummer/percussionists Greg Ellis and Debra Dobkin, Beach Boys guitarist/vocalist Scott Totten, veteran bassists and longtime friends Simeon Pillich and David Jackson (who also doubles on accordion for the title cut, 'Surprisium' and 'Happen This Way'), jazz vocalist Melba Joyce (on 'I Am A Seed of Peace'), world-class oudist John Bilezikjian (on 'This Change Is Everything'), Jamaican drummer/vocalist Maroghini (on 'Have A Friend'), L.A. lap steel virtuoso Greg Leisz (on 'Make Believe'), keyboard magician Bob Malone (piano on 'Happen This Way', 'What If...?', & 'Come To Me', and accordion on 'La Chanson de Massage'), Argentinean classical guitarist Claudio Ragazzi (on 'Snow') and new age keyboardist Laurie Z (on 'La Chanson de Massage', 'Wish I Were Here' & 'Come To Me'). And More!

Paul Mills, producer, Stan Rogers, Tanglefoot, many more

"I've enjoyed (it) immensely! I love your voice and songs. You've also done an admirable job producing yourself - a rare thing in the world of self-produced recordings."

Mark Gresser, Music Matters Review (www.mmreview.com)

"Intensity and immediacy with consummate skill. Finely tuned, emotionally clear and politically astute, James Durst is someone you should hear."

Music Morsels

"James Durst is a prolific singer/songwriter that leans more towards folk, and is unique from many of his peers by mixing various stylings into his music as well as taking more instrumentation chances. Lead track "Happen This Way" has a slight European jazz flavor and a killer acoustic guitar solo. This is followed by the bluegrass ditty "What If...?" the Latin tinged "Pre-Minstrel Syndrome" and the snappy island tune "Have A Friend." With lyrics running the gamut of heart-tugging to humorous and everything in between sung with an emotive but well controlled vocal timbre, James proves to be a serious and enjoyable talent."

John Stiernberg, business consultant/musician

"As a fan of James Durst over many years and many records, I think that "Element of Surprise" is his best work yet. The songs are clever, varied, and well-performed. There is a lot of variety, from message songs ("I Am a Seed of Peace") to whimsical wordplay (the title song, with its graphic connection to the excellent cover art). In addition to solid vocal and guitar work, James' tasteful use of backing musicians is effective throughout.

It is also interesting to note the copyright dates on the songs. They are written over a thirty year period, but all presented in a fresh contemporary style. Lyrics and recording information are included, and the CD package is environmentally conscious."

Eddie O'Strange, Town & Country Radio, New Zealand

"Songwriting is extraordinary. A wonderful mix of satire and humanitarianism--love it!"

Jane Weber, EuroRadio

"I like it, I'll play it. Thanks!"

Kathryn Quarters, businesswoman

"In (his) quiet way (he's) spoken profound messages. (His) songs need to be played all over the world. Really good!"

Tom Noe, inventor/enterpreneur

"Totally cool! Broad, funny, downright interesting. (And) a real model for how a CD should be packaged. A real winner!

Jeanine Just, visionary

"Great CD!!! Awesome!!! What a delightful musical experience! I especially enjoyed the variety. (His) BEST yet."

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