Raves and Reviews
“The Messenger, the debut CD from jazz guitarist Nick, Moran is a first-rate collection of nine original tunes that, showcases Moran’s gifts as an exciting guitarist and an, eclectic composer. Utilizing the organ trio format, Moran’s compositions take full flight as he teams up with the, electrifying Ed Withrington on organ and the always-swinging Andy Watson on drums. All concerned tear up the charts with lots of great playing and musical interaction, making The Messenger an exciting album to check out.”
-Lyle Robinson, Jazz Guitar Life
"As a fluid guitarist possessing a unique vocal-like style, Moran sizzles expressively on the program's blazing-fast numbers as well as on his soulful ballads. He drives the trio with fire."
-Jim Santella, Cadence Magazine
"[Moran] leads this superb organ combo effort with undeniable charm and lots of gusto.... this isn't run-of-the-mill stuff: They disseminate a wondrous group-centric vibe throughout."
-Glenn Astarita, ejazzNews.com
"Most guitar-organ-drums trios play blues, bop and ballads in a style similar to Jimmy Smith's combos, or jam on fairly simple soul jazz vamps. In contrast, guitarist Nick Moran's trio with organist Ed Withrington and drummer Andy Watson stretches the idiom a bit while still swinging in a soulful fashion...The three musicians interact closely, they form an attractive ensemble sound, and often seem to think as one, sounding well- rehearsed or at least very intuitive. Moran's guitar sound, while sometimes hinting at rock, also has ties to the jazz guitar tradition, Wirthrington has ties to 1960s organists but displays his own approach, and drummer Watson is stimulating in support of the lead voices."
-Scott Yanow, L.A. Jazz Scene
