Boppin'

"I have lately seen a number of works by this American composer and this one is really one of the best. Commissioned by a young guitarist who wanted a Signature piece, Johanson delved into his own roots of folk and similar acoustic styles that he was playing at the same age and came up with this little gem, based somewhat on the intricate guitar style of Paul Simon and also on the IV broadcasts of Laura Weber whose guitar styles Johanson so enjoyed in his formative years. It is marked 'Allegro Giocoso', which it undoubtedly is. It fairly bounces in with a complex but highly catchy idea that repeats in numerous guises throughout its five minutes of length. The time signatures here are many and varied but are written in, in this piece, unlike others where the pieces have been barred throughout but totally without time indications. There are lots of folk-like hammer-ons and pull-offs and hair-raising runs up and down the fingerboard; so potential players have to be ready for the fact that little in this piece is easy. The piece keeps one's interest throughout and it was hugely enjoyable. It deserves to be really well known and played by as many people that can cope with the sometimes difficult passagework but believe me it is worth it!"

Chris Dumigan (Classical Guitar Magazine)