”Never Open with a Ballad is a delightful collection of modern jazz performed by an outstanding collective of sympathetic musicians who are truly deserving of wider recognition. Pearce proves himself a highly adept leader who approaches every aspect of his music with vision and integrity.” All About Jazz/ John Barron

”This is Spectacular, great CD -- I already listened to it twice. what a great collection of tracks, musical skills and the surprise of Jim's vocals, quite an opener!! Again with the greatest pleasure will take this CD into extended airplay.” Joost Van Steen, Jazz & Blues Tour Radio - The Netherlands

“ Jim Pearce is in possession of a special type of “triple threat.” I don’t know if he can dance or act. That’s not the kind I mean. What Pearce certainly can do is sing, play piano and write great music. He does plenty of each on his latest CD, Never Open with a Ballad. He and his band play in relaxed, straight -ahead jazz style. The songs (each tune on the CD is a Pearce original) are unique. Pearce has a clearly developed compositional style. The arrangements bring out the best from each composition. The musicians bring out the best from each arrangement. Never Open with a Ballad is seriously swingin’ CD that is infinitely worth a listen or two.” Jazz Improv Magazine/ Dave Miele

“Pearce's group is nearly flawless” All About Jazz / Michael Gladstone

“Jim is an extraordinarily talented musician and those skills are matched by his songwriting abilities. It is easy to see why he has earned many songwriting awards during his illustrious career. His stories and their imaginative lyrics create vivid images that one does not soon forget, or want to. And his piano riffs continue to play in your head long after his music stops.” Roots Music Report/ Brenda Barbee

“Jazz composer/pianist Jim Pearce has assembled an impressive canon of songs showcasing his own creative composition prowess and dazzling technical gifts.The septet shines from the opening title track through the album’s closer, “One More Tomorrow.” He also delivers charming vocals on four tracks.” One Way Magazine

“Pearce has produced another winner. This is outstanding mainstream jazz. Washington Square Park is a powerful reminder that not all great jazz pianist/composers are signed to Verve or Blue Note-or work out of New York” All About Jazz / Paul Olson