Record Reviews
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  | AZYMUTH ~ DEMOS (1973-75) VOLUMES 1 & 2
FAR OUT 210 (Barcode: 827565062621) ~ BRAZIL ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1973 - 1975 Released: 2019
This is an archival album, which presents previously unreleased early recordings by the great Brazilian ensemble AzymuthFind albums by this artist, which precede their official eponymous debut album released in 1975. At that stage the ensemble was a quartet comprising of keyboardist Jose Roberto BertramiFind albums by this artist, bassist Jose Alexandre MalheirosFind albums by this artist, drummer Ivan ContiFind albums by this artist and percussionist Ariovaldo ContesiniFind albums by this artist. The album presents sixteen original compositions, mostly co-composed by Bertrami, Malheiros and Conti, and some by Bertrami.
Azymuth played a wonderful amalgam of Jazz / Funk / Samba, which proved to be extremely successful in the 1980s, when they released their albums on the US label MilestoneFind albums on this label Records, which also signed other Brazilian Jazz artist, like the couple of Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist and Flora PurimFind albums by this artist. Despite the fact than their music was popular, they offered a highly aesthetic approach to their Art and never compromised their musical principles, which resulted in a series of truly excellent albums. They also released individual solo albums over time. Bertrami sadly departed in 2012.
Although the music on this album is somewhat raw, recorded in a straightforward and simplistic studio conditions, it offers the true spirit of Azymuth’s music, which combines brilliant melodic compositions and Brazilian rhythmic magic, superbly performed by the group members. Bertrami was a sublime keyboardist and managed to squeeze absolutely everything possible form his keyboards, which considering the time-frame, sound absolutely magnificent.
The “simplicity” and straightforwardness of the music on this CD is absolutely captivating and touches on the hidden nostalgic strings, which again and again remind us that “they don’t make music like this anymore”, which in this case is even more evident than usual.
Overall, this is a marvelous album, full of brilliant music and superb performances, with an emphasis of early synthesizer and electric keyboards, which are omnipresent herein and provide a great glimpse of the music made in the early to mid-1970s, far from where “the things were happening” and yet every bit as exciting and even perhaps more exciting than most. This is a brilliant historic document of Brazilian / South American music and thanks to Far OutFind albums on this label Recordings, we have an opportunity to revisit this music again fifty years later.
| | Updated: 22/03/2023Posted: 22/03/2023 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ MILES AT THE FILLMORE 1970: THE BOOTLEG SERIES VOL.3
COLUMBIA 887654338129 (Barcode: 887654338129) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2014
This is the 3rd installment of the "Bootleg Series" live recordings by American trumpeter / composer Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, released by ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records. The recordings in this set originate mainly from the performances at the Fillmore East by the Miles Davis septet during four consecutive nights between June 17 and June 20, 1970. Three additional tracks originate from an earlier Miles Davis sextet performance at Fillmore West on April 11, 1970, recorded just a few days after Columbia released "Bitches BrewFind albums with this title" (on March 30, 1970), which changed the face of music forever.
The sextet and septet were the post-"Bitches Brew" working groups, which featured saxophonist Steve GrossmanFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist and Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist (in the septet only, first double keyboards group by Miles), bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist. Except for Grossman and Jarrett all the other musicians took part in the recording of "Bitches Brew".
The music is of course a direct follow up to the studio versions of these tunes and Davis makes no attempt to "ease up" or compromise the music and its intrinsic freedom and improvised nature, even though the Fillmore venues were at the time the Mecca and Medina of American Rock. Davis considered his music to be an integral part of the revolutionary wave of music created at the time, typically ignoring ridiculous genre divisions, and the audiences seem to share his attitude wholeheartedly.
Live recordings are always the best opportunity to check out the authenticity and integrity of musicians and these recordings are a great proof of the fact that the "Bitches Brew" magic really happened in the studio as a result of superb playing and visionary leadership, rather than post-production work by Teo MaceroFind albums by this artist. The overall level of the individual performances is of course incredibly high and inspired, full of intensity and virtuosic mastery.
Although the Fillmore West tracks suffer from some sound quality plight, this music is an absolute must to all Miles Davis fans. The four consecutive nights at Fillmore East present a similar set list, but the actual performances are so dramatically different that listening to them opens up a whole new way of comprehending the music of Miles Davis and understanding the concept of Jazz and its unique nature.
Four and a half decades later this music still kicks ass as only very few other sound sculptures are able to, and hopefully will continue to do so in the decades to come. Spearheading the Golden Decade, Miles Davis justifies his Godly status in full.
| | Updated: 31/12/2024Posted: | CD 4 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THE CELLAR DOOR SESSIONS 1970
COLUMBIA 93614 (Barcode: 827969361429) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2005
It would be incredibly presumptuous to write any kind of serious musical review of this music in a limited format, so I’ll only stick to the very basics here. The music contained in this set was recorded live on December 16-19, 1970 in a dinky little Washington, DC club called “Cellar Door”. Why would Miles play in such a venue at all remained a mystery (one of many around Miles’ life and work), as he could easily sell out any concert hall in the US. In retrospect it now becomes obvious that Miles simply wanted a sort of limited exposure live recording opportunity to record his new band, which was yet another change of direction in his career. Following the groundbreaking Bitches BrewFind albums with this title and Jack JohnsonFind albums with this title sessions, Miles decided to strip down his ensemble to the bare minimum and concentrate on a more rock / funk oriented sound. Miles was always intensely attentive to everything that was happening around him musically and his frequent performances at the Fillmore venues exposed him to scores of rock bands, which enjoyed immense popularity with the crowds. Miles concluded that he could easily play music, which would be as acceptable to the rock crowds as the rock music they were accustomed to, hell he could do it better! This sessions prove that he was absolutely right. For the new group Miles kept Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist on electric piano, since Keith was already at ease with rock oriented material he played in his earlier stints. He also kept Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist on drums, as John could rock better that any of the rock drummers around, considering his immense talent and technique. The saxophone spot was taken by Gary BartzFind albums by this artist (Steve GrossmanFind albums by this artist was having serious drug-related problems), a young and extremely capable player who sounded remarkably similar to John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, but felt comfortable with the funky rhythms. The biggest change (and surprise) was the bass spot, which Miles assigned to the tender MotownFind albums on this label (yes – the Jackson 5Find albums by this artist!) electric bassist Michael HendersonFind albums by this artist. Henderson’s pulsating funky rhythms set the essence for these sessions, not only serving as a rock solid foundation upon which the musicians are free to develop their improvisations, but also being the glue that keeps the music together. The quintet of Davis, Bartz, Jarrett, Henderson and DeJohnette play on all the 6 CDs in this set. The Brazilian percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist joins the quintet on the 3rd day (expanding it to a sextet) and is heard on 4 CDs. Moreira’s contribution to Miles’ music deserve a chapter in itself - in these sessions he skillfully adds color and polyrhythmic accents, always with taste and precision. On the last day the group is extended to a septet with John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist joining in on his fire blazing electric guitar, like there is no tomorrow. This truly turns the whole ensemble into the “greatest fucking rock band you ever heard”, to quote Miles. McLaughlin is in his usual great form, which means he is just way ahead of anything else done at that time on guitar. What about Miles himself? Let me just say that he plays some of his best notes ever on these sessions, full of vigor, passion and inspiration. What else can I say here? This music is beyond comparison, beyond criticism, beyond all the bullshit people say about music… If you didn’t hear it you simply don’t exist - musically that is ;).
| | | CD 6 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THE COMPLETE JACK JOHNSON SESSIONS
COLUMBIA 86359 ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970
This is the 7th chapter in the ColumbiaFind albums on this label’s epic series of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist Box Sets, which is a monumental reissue project of recordings by the most important Jazz musician of the 20th century. Recorded between February and June 1970 this monumental document defines “Electric Jazz” – anything recorded since, be it Jazz, Rock or Fusion, has its roots here. These almost five hours of music remained mostly unreleased till this set was issued, as the original A Tribute To Jack JohnsonFind albums with this title album contained less than 10 % of the music included herein. Although a few other “cooked” albums included snippets of this music (Live-EvilFind albums with this title, Get Up With ItFind albums with this title, DirectionsFind albums with this title and Big FunFind albums with this title) they were never available in their full form. By the time this material was recorded Miles’ approach to creating music changed dramatically: he was more of a captain giving the crew a general direction as to where he wanted to go, ratter that a navigator concerned with the exact details as to the course taken. An enormous amount of freedom was granted to the stellar collection of participants (Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist – keyboards, Steve GrossmanFind albums by this artist, Bennie MaupinFind albums by this artist, Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist – saxes, Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, Ron CarterFind albums by this artist, Michael HendersonFind albums by this artist – bass, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Sonny SharrockFind albums by this artist – guitar, Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, Gene PerlaFind albums by this artist – drums, Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist, Hermeto PascoalFind albums by this artist – percussion) and for the first time Miles promoted John McLaughlin to be the primary soloist, much more dominant than his trumpet. McLaughlin of course was up to the job and presents some incredible guitar playing, firmly establishing the electric guitar as the leading instrument in instrumental music for the years to come. His fearless ventures into the uncharted territory of Fusion and even Rock would become a beacon for generations of guitar players, a source of inspiration and a vital learning tool. The unrestrained, almost jam-like atmosphere of the sessions inspired all the participants to search for the best they could achieve and the resulting music is simply phenomenal. This is visionary and groundbreaking, Promethean and pioneering musical creation, an absolute must to any Jazz fan that takes his music seriously..
A special note to collectors:
The initial release of all the Miles Davis Box Sets in this reissue series is packaged in an exquisite metal-bound (except chapter 5 which is cardboard-bound) frame housed in a hard cardboard CD-sized slipcase (except for chapters 1 & 8 which have a metal slipcase). Once the initial release is sold out, the CDs are repackaged in a tall-box digipack book format. Naturally the tall-box issues have a much lower retail price tag. All the initial release CD-sized issues become priceless collectors’ items in time.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 5 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | AL DI MEOLA ~ CIELO E TERRA / SOARING THROUGH A DREAM / TIRAMI SU
BGO 0879 (Barcode: 5017261208798) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1985 - 1987 Released: 2009
Guitarist / composer Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist is a brilliant example of a musician, who never stands still and keeps changing and improving in time, rather than hanging on to the fame and success achieved in a distant past. A superb Master of his instrument, Di Meola´s journey through music is an epic story beginning in the early 1970s in the epicenter of the then exploding Fusion movement as a member of Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist´s Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist, and continuing with a long succession of solo recordings, which is now in its 4th decade.
This brilliant reissue covers the transitional period in Di Meola´s career in the mid-1980s, when he was moving away from Fusion deeper and deeper into his own unique niche, which combines Jazz and World Music, creating some of the most beautiful music imaginable. Included here are all three albums Di Meola recorded for the ManhattanFind albums on this label Records label, which clearly show his transition as well as the gradual switch to acoustic guitar. Although quite different from each other, the logical development is clearly omnipresent and quite fascinating.
The three albums were recorded in three different settings: the first is a duet, the second a quintet and the last a septet, with some superb musicians taking part: the great Brazilian percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist, drummer Danny GottliebFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Kei AkagiFind albums by this artist, bassist Harvey SwartzFind albums by this artist, percussionist Mino CineluFind albums by this artist and other distinguished players. Almost all of the music included here was composed by Di Meola, with just a few exceptions, all of it brilliant and moving. This is the stuff that makes listening to music a real pleasure, brilliant, intelligent, emotional and everlasting. A must!
| | Updated: 28/02/2024Posted: | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GEORGE DUKE ~ THE COMPLETE 1970S EPIC ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979303225 (Barcode: 886979303225) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1977 - 1979 Released: 2012
American keyboardist / composer George DukeFind albums by this artist is definitely one of the most colorful, dynamic, brilliant and versatile musical personalities on the scene. With a career spanning five decades and activities covering such diverse sub-genres as mainstream Jazz, Jazz-Rock Fusion, Rock, Funk and Jazz-World Fusion, Duke made over the years an enormous impact on the development of contemporary music.
Following a several years long association (early to mid 1970s) with the legendary German MPSFind albums on this label label, where Duke released his revolutionary early Fusion albums, he switched to the EpicFind albums on this label label (a subsidiary of ColumbiaFind albums on this label), where he recorded six albums between 1977 and 1979, all of which are included in this wonderful Box Set.
The Epic recordings reveal Duke gradually moving away from the Jazz and even Fusion roots, replacing those by Funk and other popular music influences. Only the last album in this set ("A Brazilian Love AffairFind albums with this title") is different and presents Duke as a Jazz-World Fusion artist, with an obvious affinity for Brazilian music. On that album he is supported by several famous Brazilian musicians, including vocalist Milton NascimentoFind albums by this artist, percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist, vocalist Flora PurimFind albums by this artist, guitarist Toninho HortaFind albums by this artist and many others, in addition to his American regulars. On all the albums he plays with an excellent group of musicians, which includes his long-time friend bassist Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist, drummer Leon Ndugu ChanclerFind albums by this artist, bassist Byron MillerFind albums by this artist, percussionist Sheila EscovedoFind albums by this artist and numerous others, including many brass players as well, which shows a clear influence of Earth, Wind & FireFind albums by this artist on Duke´s music at the time.
Duke composed all the music on these albums (with very few minor exceptions) and he also utilizes his vocals, which is the most criticized issue regarding this music. As much as these albums were successful on the US market, they were treated with disrespect and sheer detest by his European and Japanese fans, who accused him of commerciality. The problem was of course, that this music should have not been compared to or judged by the same criteria as his earlier output, which was completely different stylistically.
In retrospect this music still sounds great and lost nothing of its power and ingenuity, providing it is treated separately from Duke´s other output. The tunes are great, as are the performances, and one can´t resist the funky rhythms unless one is completely deaf or brain-dead. There are very few musicians, who display the same level of integrity and ingenuity as George Duke in everything they do over the years. He is the man and nobody can deny it!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | STAN GETZ ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886978805829 (Barcode: 886978805829) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 - 1979 Released: 2011
With a career spanning half a century American saxophonist Stan GetzFind albums by this artist became one of the undying Jazz icons, making many milestone contributions to the development of the Jazz art form. He was probably one of the most versatile Jazz figures, associated with such diverse Jazz genres as Bebop, Cool, Bossa Nova and Jazz-Rock Fusion. His extensive recorded legacy includes many classic Jazz albums, which are considered timeless and are listened to today.
Getz´s most popular albums are those recorded during his stint with the VerveFind albums on this label label (1951–1972), but his albums recorded for and released on ColumbiaFind albums on this label in the 1970s, although criminally less known, are in fact some of his best ever and surely constitute the most diverse output created by one artist in a period of just several years, probably due to the complete artistic freedom and self-production rights he was awarded by Columbia. A total of seven albums were released on Columbia, spanning a wide artistic spectrum and all absolutely brilliant.
The set opens with the marvelous "Captain MarvelFind albums with this title" album, recorded with pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist (who wrote almost all the music on that album), bassist Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist, drummer Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist and percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist. This album was recorded just a month after the recording of the debut eponymous album by the newly founded Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist. It included some of the music already recorded on that debut album and other music included later on the second Return To Forever album called "Light As A FeatherFind albums with this title". This is definitely one of the most memorable early Fusion recordings.
Next comes the reunion between Getz and the Brazilian guitarist / composer Joao GilbertoFind albums by this artist ("The Best Of Two WorldsFind albums with this title"), returning to the Jazz / Bossa Nova style, which a decade earlier pushed Getz to the center of fame and popularity as a result of the commercial and artistic success of legendary early Getz / Gilberto albums.
Then there is the beautiful collaboration with the legendary vocalist / pianist / composer Jimmie RowlesFind albums by this artist ("The PeacocksFind albums with this title"), a straight-forward quartet date ("The MasterFind albums with this title"), another great Fusion album ("Another WorldFind albums with this title") with keyboardist Andy LaverneFind albums by this artist, an album of Lalo ShifrinFind albums by this artist´s compositions ("Children Of The WorldFind albums with this title") and finally a soundtrack album ("Forest EyesFind albums with this title") recorded in Holland with excellent Dutch musicians.
The Box Set also includes a bonus CD comprising of live recordings by Getz, compiled from different albums and informative liner notes. All albums are remastered and include bonus tracks. Together this is one of the most fascinating collections of music, simply exploding with musical genius and incredible performances. It is an essential document of what intelligent and open minded music is all about and an essential part of the Jazz legacy. Not to be missed under any circumstances!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 8 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | AIRTO MOREIRA ~ I`M FINE, HOW ARE YOU?
WARNER BROS. 081227957056 (Barcode: 081227957056) ~ BRAZIL ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2014
This is a reissue / remaster of an album by Brazilian drummer / percussionist / composer / bandleader Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist, recorded with a large group of Brazilian and American musicians, which includes keyboardist Hugo FattorusoFind albums by this artist, guitarist Charles JohnsonFind albums by this artist, trombonist Raoul de SouzaFind albums by this artist, bassist Byron MillerFind albums by this artist, and famous guests, who play on selected tracks, like bassist Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Tom ScottFind albums by this artist, vocalist Ruben RadaFind albums by this artist or Moreira’s wife Flora PurimFind albums by this artist (who sings on one track). The album presents eight tracks, four composed or co-composed by Moreira, one composed by Purim, and three co-composed by Rada and Fattoruso.
The music is the usual wonderful amalgam of Brazilian rhythms and melodies, with a Jazzy tinge, splendidly performed by the entire crew. This album is distinctly on the lighter side of the Jazz spectrum, but nonetheless offers great musicianship and the familiar Brazilian flavor, which is always great fun to listen to. The last track, which features Pastorius, is particularly interesting to his many fans, as his playing here is absolutely stunning.
Overall, fans of Jazz-World Fusion with Brazilian flavoring should love this album, as all his other recordings, and of course he is an absolute genius as far as mixing the Brazilian elements with Jazz is concerned.
| | Updated: 06/07/2024Posted: 05/07/2024 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | AIRTO MOREIRA & FLORA PURIM ~ LIVE AT JAZZFEST BREMEN 1988
MOOSICUS 1314 (Barcode: 885513131423) ~ BRAZIL ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1988 Released: 2021
This is an archival album by Brazilian drummer / composer / bandleader Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist and his wife, singer / songwriter Flora PurimFind albums by this artist, recorded live with their quintet, which also included keyboardist Marcos SilvaFind albums by this artist, American saxophonist Gary MeekFind albums by this artist and bassist Robert HarrisonFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks, eight of which are original compositions / songs by the quintet members and two are Brazilian standards.
Airto and Flora (separately and together) were for many years the most important representatives of Brazilian music outside of their native country and contributed immensely to the creation of the Brazilian-flavored Jazz-World Fusion, recording dozens of dazzling albums in that genre, with many of the world’s best Jazz musicians.
Airto is a brilliant drummer and percussionist and Flora is a breathtaking singer and both have been among my favorite musicians since many decades. I have had the pleasure to meet them many times of course. Therefore, any archival material released with their music is always a great joy.
This live recording catches them with an exceptionally tight quintet, which plays like clockwork, and enables everybody to show their best. Flora’s vocals are brilliant as always and the band offers great saxophone and keyboards parts and a brilliant rhythm section work, including a lengthy showcase of Airto’s solo performance.
Overall, this is a wonderful time capsule, which preserves the spirit of Brazilian Jazz-World Fusion at its best, and as such is absolutely worth being released now, despite the fact then the sound quality is somewhat muddy at times. A superb reminder of the great talent of this Royal Jazz Couple.
| | Updated: 20/03/2022Posted: 20/03/2022 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | AIRTO MOREIRA & FLORA PURIM ~ LIVE IN BERKELEY
AIRFLOW 801097003840 (Barcode: 801097003840) ~ BRAZIL ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1990 Released: 2012
This is an archival live recording by the Brazilian Jazz “Royal Couple” of percussionist / drummer / vocalist / bandleader Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist and his wife singer / songwriter Flora PurimFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded in a tight quintet format with bassist Gary BrownFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Helio AlvesFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Widor SantiagoFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven lengthy tracks, two of which are well known pieces associated with the couple’s stint in the Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist group led by Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist. The album offers exceptional sound quality, especially for a live recording.
With four Brazilian musicians on board, the music offers a brilliant Jazz-World Fusion tribute to Brazilian sources. Two of the tracks are trio performances, four others are full quintet performances with Purim on vocals and one is a solo piece by Airto.
Alves proves to be a brilliant pianist, truly shining in the over twenty minutes long rendition of “La Fiesta”, but his performances on all the tracks is nothing short of phenomenal. Another RTF piece “Light As A Feather” also gets a fourteen minutes’ treatment, which causes goosebumps to appear on every listener’s skin, probably even in case of deaf persons.
Although Airto and Flora recorded several live albums together, this is undoubtedly their absolute best, in every respect – the exceptional material, brilliant performances and sublime sound just all fall together perfectly.
Overall, this is a surprising reminder of how great Airto / Flora and their cohorts sounded live, which of course I have experienced in person many times, but never heard on records in such glorious manifestation. For the couple’s many fans, this is an absolute must have, a sublime mixture of Jazz and Brazilian music, which sound still absolutely gorgeous, now thirty-three years later.
| | Updated: 17/05/2023Posted: 17/05/2023 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | AIRTO MOREIRA / FLORA PURIM / JOE FARRELL ~ THREE-WAY MIRROR
REFERENCE RECORDINGS 24 (Barcode: 030911102425) ~ BRAZIL ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1985 Released: 1987
This is an album by Brazilian drummer / percussionist / composer / bandleader Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist, his wife vocalist Flora PurimFind albums by this artist and American saxophonist / flautist Joe FarrellFind albums by this artist, recorded with a splendid team, which includes Japanese pianist Kei AkagiFind albums by this artist, American bassists Mark EganFind albums by this artist and Randy TicoFind albums by this artist and Brazilian guitarist Jose NetoFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, seven composed by the musicians playing on the album and one is an arrangement of a composition by Milton NascimentoFind albums by this artist. This was the last recording by Farrell, who died prematurely in 1986 at the ridiculous age of forty-eight, and the album is dedicated to him. The album offers a spectacular sound quality.
Moreira, Purim and Farrell were the core members of first incarnation of Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist’s group Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist, which recorded the two seminal albums in 1972 / 1973, the eponymous “Return To ForeverFind albums with this title” and “Light As A FeatherFind albums with this title”. The music on this album is a strong reminder of these two albums, and although it is criminally little known, it certainly deserves to stand in the same quality class.
The music offers a wonderful amalgam of Brazilian / Latin rhythms and melodies, with a strong Jazzy tinge, splendidly performed by the entire crew. The last track, dedicated to John Coltrane, is particularly interesting and features absolutely stunning performance by Farrell.
Overall, fans of Jazz-World Fusion with Brazilian flavoring should love this album, as all other recordings by Moreira, Purim and Farrell, together and separately. The Brazilian pair are absolute geniuses as far as mixing the Brazilian elements with Jazz is concerned.
| | Updated: 10/07/2024Posted: 10/07/2024 | CD 1 Audiophile Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERMETO PASCOAL ~ HERMETO
FAR OUT 07 (Barcode: 5065007965214) ~ BRAZIL ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2023
This is a reissue / remaster of the debut album as a leader by the Brazilian Jazz multi-instrumentalist / composer / bandleader Hermeto PascoalFind albums by this artist, recorded in NY with some top American Jazz musicians, like woodwinds players Joe FarrellFind albums by this artist and Hubert LawsFind albums by this artist, trumpeters Thad JonesFind albums by this artist and Ernie RoyalFind albums by this artist, bassist Ron CarterFind albums by this artist and the Royal Brazilian Jazz couple: vocalist Flora PurimFind albums by this artist and drummer / percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist, who moved to the US in the late 1960s, and who also co-produced the album. The album presents eight tracks, seven of which are original compositions by Hermeto Pascoal and one is by his older brother Jose Netto PascoalFind albums by this artist, all brilliantly arranged and orchestrated by Hermeto Pascoal, who plays keyboards and flute.
The music is a divine example of early Jazz-World Fusion, with brilliant and intricate orchestral arrangements, which were completely different from what the usual American Orchestral Jazz sounded like. The sophistication and wild imagination that Pascoal incorporated in his music amazed the American musicians who were exposed to it, including Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, who regarded Pascoal as a musical genius, and rightly so.
The album sounds amazingly fresh and contemporary, despite the fact that it is more than five decades old, and still offers today much to be learned from, not to mention of course an exquisite listening experience, full of sublime melodic themes, typical Brazilian touches and superb soloing by the players.
Overall, this is a true classic Jazz-World Fusion album, which deserves to be heard and remembered, and which offers exceedingly original musical approach to orchestral Jazz. It is great to see the album available again, and hopefully it will be discovered by new generations of listeners. Personally I just can’t get enough of this music, with the CD playing on “repeat” mode. Kudos to Far Out Recordings for bringing this gem back to life!
| | Updated: 22/04/2023Posted: 22/04/2023 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERMETO PASCOAL ~ VIAJANDO COM O SOM
FAR OUT 200 (Barcode: 5060211503535) ~ BRAZIL ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2017
This is a sensational archival album by the Godfather of Brazilian Jazz, multi-instrumentalist / composer / bandleader Hermeto PascoalFind albums by this artist. Recorded in 1976, this album remained unreleased for over forty years, only to be finally made available thanks to the fact that a copy of the original session recording was miraculously kept by keyboardist Lelo NazarioFind albums by this artist. Pascoal recorded this album following his return to Brazil, after spending some time in the US playing and recording among others with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and another Brazilian expatriate Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist. Pascoal is accompanied by a group of young Brazilian musicians, called Grupo Vice VersaFind albums by this artist, which consists of keyboardist Lelo Nazario, his brother drummer Zé Eduardo NazarioFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Nivaldo OrnelasFind albums by this artist, Mauro SeniseFind albums by this artist and Raul MascarenhasFind albums by this artist, guitarist Toninho HortaFind albums by this artist, bassist Zeca AssumpcaoFind albums by this artist and female vocalist Aleuda ChavesFind albums by this artist. The album presents just four lengthy pieces, three of which are original compositions by Pascoal and one is an arrangement of a Brazilian folklore theme. The sound quality of the recording is exceptional and sounds as if it was recorded recently, which is truly remarkable. The extensive liner notes describe the historic circumstances of this recording session and other background information, including photographs, for which the record label is to be praised.
The music is a wonderful amalgam of Jazz, World and Improvised Music, which incorporates the Jazz and Jazz-Rock idioms with the riches of Brazilian music, weaving a unique tapestry, which is typical of Pascoal´s brilliant achievements. The vigor, dynamics and enthusiasm characterizing the contributions by these young players is strongly felt, balancing Pascoal´s more lyrical and contemplative approach, again creating magnificent tension and feeling of urgency.
The extensive nature of these tracks allows ample opportunity for the musicians to contribute impressive solos and both individual and group improvisations. The music is light-years ahead of its time and sounds as contemporary and exciting as the best music recorded today, which places it instantly in the "classic" category.
Like all great band leaders Pascoal cultivated generations of young musicians, who later on became leaders of their own. Following this session the Nazario BrothersFind albums by this artist, Senise and Assumpcao would create the Grupo UmFind albums by this artist, the first bona fide Brazilian Jazz-Rock-World Fusion ensemble, which greatly influenced the local scene for years to come. Of course many other players in his groups over the years were about to follow a similar path.
This is an absolute essential piece of history, not only of Brazilian Jazz, but of the entire Jazz-Rock-World Fusion idiom, which still plays a central role on the contemporary scene. As such it should become an integral part of every serious album collection, owned by true music connoisseurs. The fact that this music had to wait for so long to be released is a great pity, but alas at last we can all enjoy it. Essential!
| | Updated: 01/01/2018Posted: 01/01/2018 | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | FLORA PURIM ~ PERPETUAL EMOTION
NARADA 724385062520 (Barcode: 724385062520) ~ BRAZIL ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2001
This is a wonderful album by Brazilian vocalist Flora PurimFind albums by this artist, recorded with excellent musicians: American saxophonist Gary MeekFind albums by this artist, fabulous French pianist Christian JacobFind albums by this artist, American bassist Trey HenryFind albums by this artist and her husband drummer, percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist. Brazilian guitarist Oscar Castro-NevesFind albums by this artist guests on selected tracks. The album presents eleven tracks, a mixture of original songs by Purim, Airto and Meek, some Brazilian songs, two Jazz compositions by Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist and McCoy TynerFind albums by this artist and one standard.
The music is the usual mixture of Jazz and Brazilian spicing, which is an irresistible, intoxicating magic for every true Jazz lover. This album is closer to Jazz than most other albums Purim recorded earlier, which although excellent, were somewhat more Pop oriented. I personally fell in love with Flora’s singing since the day I heard her sing with Chick Corea in 1972.
She is accompanied by a great team of musicians, who swing beautifully, providing the ideal accompaniment to Purim’s warm, sensual voice. In many respects this is probably the purest Jazz recording in her discography and features some of her best original material.
Overall, this is a marvelous vocal Jazz album by one of my most loved singers, who never recorded a bad album in her life. Her recorded legacy offers many fabulous albums, all of which are definitely worth visiting, and she is one of the most important Jazz-World Fusion innovators.
| | Updated: 21/08/2023Posted: 21/08/2023 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | FLORA PURIM ~ SINGS MILTON NASCIMENTO
EFA 718750636126 (Barcode: 718750636126) ~ BRAZIL ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2002
This is a wonderful album by Brazilian vocalist Flora PurimFind albums by this artist, dedicated to her friend the legendary Brazilian singer / songwriter Milton NascimentoFind albums by this artist, one of the most important representatives both of the original Brazilian music and the Jazz-World Fusion idiom. As Purim puts it in the album´s liner notes, which tell the story of their musical encounters over the years: "This record is not a tribute to Milton, but a declaration of unconditional love". The album collects ten songs, eight of which are composed by Nascimento and two are associated with him. Purim is accompanied by a superb cast of musicians, many of which originate from Brazil, which includes keyboardist Luiz AvellarFind albums by this artist, saxophonist / flautist Widor SantiagoFind albums by this artist, guitarist Jose NetoFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary BrownFind albums by this artist, drummer (and husband) Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist and many others. The great (and much lamented) keyboardist George DukeFind albums by this artist guests on one track and a brass section is featured on another track.
Purim sings in Portuguese (except for one song), which is greatly refreshing, as most of her albums feature her English lyrics, and her voice is absolutely unblemished by age; on the contrary she sounds invigorated and rejuvenated. The vocal and instrumental arrangements are absolutely delightful and the album is one great joy ride from start to finish. After being yanked out of the Brazilian music into the Jazz and Fusion worlds following her and her husband´s arrival in the US, Purim seems to be enjoying coming back to her roots on this album, which is felt immediately.
Of course the music is also about Nascimento, who is unquestionably one of the greatest songwriters in all times. His ability to amalgamate Brazilian moods and folkloristic themes with Jazz, Rock and contemporary music in general is unparalleled. He remains a pillar of fire among his contemporaries, which many have followed suit.
Purim delivers some of her most dramatic, heartfelt vocals on this album ever, including vocalese and other vocal tricks, which are beautifully captured by the recording and production of this album, turning it instantly into one of my favorite Purim albums. The overall quality and collected talents concentrated on this album are simply staggering.
Side Note: Many thanks to my friend Odd GjelsnesFind albums by this artist who has allowed me to rummage his enormous CD warehouse for hidden treasures, of which this was just one of many. The thought that this album never landed in my lap earlier makes me very sad, as it makes me realize that there must be thousands of similar albums I have missed…
| | Updated: 09/08/2016Posted: 09/08/2016 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | FLORA PURIM ~ THE COMPLETE WARNER RECORDINGS
WOUNDED BIRD 2985 (Barcode: 664140298521) ~ BRAZIL ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1977 - 1979 Released: 2023
This is a 2CD reissue of three studio albums by the legendary Brazilian Jazz vocalist / songwriter Flora PurimFind albums by this artist, released on Warner Bros.Find albums on this label Records in 1977, 1978 and 1979 respectively.
These albums were recorded while Purim was at the peak of her popularity in the US, and she flirts with some Smooth Jazz and Latin Jazz material, in addition to her usual Brazilian Jazz, but they are nevertheless still absolutely gorgeous. Some of the best US Jazz musicians at the time accompany her on these albums, including of course her husband drummer / percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Randy BreckerFind albums by this artist, bassist Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist, keyboardists George DukeFind albums by this artist and Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist and numerous others.
CD1 includes the album “Everyday, EverynightFind albums with this title”, from 1978. It presents eleven tracks. This edition adds two bonus tracks, which are outtakes from the album’s recording session.
CD2 includes the album “Nothing Will Be As It Was…TomorrowFind albums with this title”, from 1977, which presents eight tracks, and the album “Carry OnFind albums with this title”, from 1979, which presents ten tracks.
To this very day Purim is one of the most important Jazz vocalist of all time, a pioneer of the Brazilian Jazz wave that swept the world in the 1970s and a very gifted songwriter as well. She is one of my favorite vocalists and I am incredibly happy to have had the opportunity to meet her several times.
Overall, these are excellent vocal Jazz / Jazz-World Fusion albums, which are absolutely an essential addition to every Vocal Jazz collection and which lost absolutely nothing of their brilliance over time. The reissue is a most welcomed opportunity to grab a copy of the them. Purim’s many followers need no encouragement of course and many young Jazz vocalists can learn a lot from these recordings. Sublime stuff!
| | Updated: 21/10/2023Posted: 21/10/2023 | CD 2 Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SANTANA ~ BARBOLETTA
COLUMBIA 474685 (Barcode: 5099747468520) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 1995
7th album, featuring the SantanaFind albums by this artist Mk. II lineup with some distinguished guests like Brazilian percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist and his wife the singer Flora PurimFind albums by this artist, and bass player Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist. The great bass player Doug RauchFind albums by this artist, who was responsible for the band’s pulsating rhythms, departed to be replaced by original Santana member David BrownFind albums by this artist. The album has a strong Brazilian feel mainly due to the presence of Airto and Flora and their version of Dorival CaymmiFind albums by this artist’s “Promise Of A Fisherman” is truly wonderful. Santana plays with confidence and his usual flair with Tom CosterFind albums by this artist’s keyboards filling in and him soloing occasionally, mostly on electric piano. This is a great Fusion album, which stands the test of time beautifully. Unfortunately this was the last of the “great” Santana albums. When Santana’s album sales started to show lower then usual figures, ColumbiaFind albums on this label executives pressured Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist to return to a more commercial output, and he eventually caved in. The remainder of the band’s output, although always full of brilliant moments, was to be haunted of sales potential (rather than musical) considerations. Carlos remains of course one of the greatest guitar players ever and his recorded legacy up to this album is an everlasting testimony to the greatness of the era.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | WAYNE SHORTER ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979202429 (Barcode: 886979202429) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1971 - 1988 Released: 2011
There are very few Jazz musicians, who can claim being at the epicenter of the most innovative and creative music making for decades and also be called one of the greatest Jazz composers, but saxophonist / composer Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist certainly is one of them. His role as a member of the legendary second Miles DavisFind albums by this artist quintet and than as co-founder and co-leader of the no less legendary Weather ReportFind albums by this artist are already more significant than the achievements of most other musicians, but Shorter also has a most impressive solo career, which spans from the late 1950s to now, i.e. for over half a century.
Shorter´s recordings as a leader, which were chronologically released on the Vee-JayFind albums on this label, Blue NoteFind albums on this label, ColumbiaFind albums on this label and VerveFind albums on this label labels present a magnificent body of work both as a performer and a composer. The Blue Note recordings, eleven albums released between 1964 and 1970 and recorded while he was a member of the Miles Davis quintet, are perhaps the most impressive and pivotal as far as Jazz development is concerned, but all the others are also great showcases of his talent.
Shorter recorded four albums for Columbia; one in 1974 and the other three in the late 1980s, all of which are included in this Box Set. The first album, ("Native DancerFind albums with this title") recorded with the brilliant Brazilian musician / composer Milton NascimentoFind albums by this artist is the most memorable and impressive of the Columbia recordings and a beautiful example of Jazz-World Fusion at its best. In addition to several great Brazilian musicians playing on the album, including Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist, it also features Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist on piano. The other three albums are somewhat Fusion oriented and feature different lineups of first class musicians, especially keyboard players like Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, Stu GoldbergFind albums by this artist, Jim BeardFind albums by this artist, Patrice RushenFind albums by this artist, Geri AllenFind albums by this artist and others and of course almost exclusively the superb compositions by Shorter.
This Box Set also includes two bonus CDs, which collect all Weather Report tracks, which were composed by Wayne Shorter and recorded during the group´s entire lifespan. Although not adding anything new, these CDs present a great historic document of Shorter´s contribution as a composer to the group´s monumental accomplishments.
This Box Set is a must to all Wayne Shorter fans, especially in view of the fact that the individual albums have been out of print for ages. The musical content is of course top notch in every respect, a part of the legacy of a great musician, which deserves to be heard and remembered!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | UPPER AUSTRIAN JAZZ ORCHESTRA ~ BRAZILIAN WORLD MUSIC PROJECT
ATS 0967 (Barcode: 9005216009671) ~ AUSTRIA ~ Big Band Jazz
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2021
This is an album by the Upper Austrian Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist, led by saxophonist / composer Christian MaurerFind albums by this artist and including many excellent Austrian Jazz musicians like trombonist Robert BachnerFind albums by this artist, pianist Helmar HillFind albums by this artist and others. The UAJO albums present usually either a concept or special guest, and in this case both, as the music is dedicated to Jazz interpretations of Brazilian Music and the special guests are Brazilian drummer / composer Fernando PaivaFind albums by this artist and vocalist Verena LoipetsbergerFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten original compositions, five composed by Paiva and arranged by UAJO members, four composed and arranged by UAJO members and one composed and arranged by Anna MaurerFind albums by this artist, Christian’s daughter and a gifted pianist / composer.
The music, although full of familiar Latin / Brazilian rhythms and melodies, sounds quite unusual due to the Big Band arrangements and Jazz accents, which are pretty rare as far as Brazilian Jazz is concerned. The orchestra plays, as usual, brilliantly and the vocalese parts by Loipetsberger add another layer of sound, which takes the music away for the standard Brazilian Jazz. Of course Flora PurimFind albums by this artist, Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist and Hermeto PascoalFind albums by this artist come to mind immediately, but the European tinge is well mixed within the music and takes it apart from what the Brazilian Jazz fans are used to, which is a great fun.
Overall, this is a great piece of music, which unusually combines the Latin accents with the Big Band sound, creating a surprising amalgam of European Big Band Jazz and Brazilian elements. The UAJO is definitely one of my favorite European Jazz Big Bands and their versatility and superb paying, intricate arrangements and dedication to the music are apparent here, as on all their recordings, all of which are worth exploring. Well done!
| | Updated: 16/09/2021Posted: 16/09/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ I SING THE BODY ELECTRIC
COLUMBIA 512897 (Barcode: 5099751289722) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 - 1972 Released: 1997
2nd album by the first jazz super group Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, formed by ex-Miles DavisFind albums by this artist group members Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist (keyboards) and Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist (sax) and the Czech bass virtuoso Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist. Vitous was asked to join the Miles Davis group in 1970, but for various reasons this didn’t work out. Instead he approached two of the group members and proposed to form a new group, which would continue the revolutionary new direction Miles was following (later to be named Jazz-Rock Fusion) and expand it into new territory. Zawinul and Shorter, both being at a crossroads at the time after leaving the ensembles they played in, agreed and Weather Report was born. Following the release of their eponymous album in 1971 the group embarked on several European and Japanese tours. In November of 1971 WR entered the NYC CBS studios to record material for their second album. These sessions were interrupted by another Japanese tour, during which a legendary album called Live In TokyoFind albums with this title was recorded on January 13, 1972. The live album was released as a double LP immediately, but due to the usual corporate bullshit the release was intended for the Japanese market only, and it stayed this way for almost thirty years (it was released finally on CD in Europe in 2001), making the album unobtainable to most WR fans outside Japan. Well, not entirely, as heavily edited excerpts of this recording found their way to the B side of I Sing The Body ElectricFind albums with this title, in addition to the a.m. November studio recordings on side A. As usual with WR, personnel changes started already at this early stage and in the cause of the very few months since the recording of the debut album the original WR drummer Alphonse MouzonFind albums by this artist was replaced by Eric GravattFind albums by this artist and original percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist was replaced by another Brazilian Master Don Um RomaoFind albums by this artist. More importantly however, the music of the band changed also quite dramatically. The debut album was an all-acoustic affair and here we have Zawinul using electric piano, modulators and other electronic devices, which eventually would dominate the WR sound. The overall sound is now almost identical to the Miles Davis In A Silent WayFind albums with this title / Bitches BrewFind albums with this title sessions. On the studio sessions WR used several guest musicians, notably the superb guitarist Ralph TownerFind albums by this artist (from OregonFind albums by this artist) on the classically influenced piece called The Moors and an extended brass session and vocals on the ominous anti-war piece called Unknown Soldier (remember the Doors?). This album is a timeless masterpiece and a cornerstone of Jazz (in general) and Fusion (in particular), providing a wonderful introspective peek at the most interesting (regardless of genre) period in the history of 20th Century music. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ LIVE IN BERLIN 1971
GAD 271 (Barcode: 5903068124884) ~ USA ~ Avant-Garde Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2023
This is a sensational 2CD live archival album by the legendary Fusion supergroup Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, captured soon after the release of their eponymous debut album just a few months earlier. The lineup includes Austrian keyboardist Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, American saxophonist Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, Czech bassist Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist, American drummer Alphonse MouzonFind albums by this artist and Brazilian percussionist Dom Um RomaoFind albums by this artist, who replaced the founding member, also Brazilian percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist. The album presents thirteen tracks, on three of which the quintet is expanded into an octet with the presence of Swedish trombonist Eje ThelinFind albums by this artist and British saxophonists Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist and John SurmanFind albums by this artist.
This particular album is completely unique for several reasons. This early lineup of Weather Report has almost no other live recordings, except for the Japanese only “Live In TokyoFind albums with this title” album. The music is characterized by highly improvised, often completely Free Jazz approach, before the group gradually shifted into the more melodic / Funky vein, which sounded completely different from the early period. Also the presence of the three musicians from outside the group’s lineup is of course unprecedented. Additionally, the fact that half of the tracks here last for well over ten minutes in duration, and the entire album lasts for two hours, emphasizes the highly improvised nature of the music. In short, this album presents mostly the less known side of Weather Report, which reflects their most ambitious, creative and challenging period.
It is worth to remember that although the group was formed in the US, it was never a typical American act, and when all the European elements were finally gone, it lost most of its initial impact before eventually falling apart. On the other hand, if the group would have continued in the same direction of advanced improvisation, it probably would have never achieved the popularity and fame they did achieve at their peak.
Overall, this album is a true revelation in every respect, and for the many Weather Report fans worldwide, it is an eye (ear) opener, which they can’t miss. The fact that it was released by a Polish reissues label GADFind albums on this label Records speaks volumes of the label’s initiative to uncover past musical treasures. This music is beyond essential!
| | Updated: 05/01/2024Posted: 05/01/2024 | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ LIVE IN TOKYO
COLUMBIA 489208 (Barcode: 5099748920829) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2001
Following the release of their eponymous album in 1971 and in spite of the hype and show-biz brouhaha created by ColumbiaFind albums on this label at the time, which presented Weather ReportFind albums by this artist as the first ever jazz super group (a term already used in reference to rock acts), the band found it difficult to secure any US venues to perform live. Europe and Japan of course couldn’t get enough of them and WR spent most of 1971 performing there in front of ecstatic audiences. In November of 1971 WR entered the NYC CBS studios to record material for their second album. These sessions were interrupted by another Japanese tour, during which this legendary album was recorded on January 13, 1972. The music was released as a double LP immediately, but due to the usual corporate bullshit the release was intended for the Japanese market only, and it stayed this way for almost thirty years (it was released finally on CD in Europe in 2001), making the album unobtainable to most WR fans outside Japan. Well, not entirely, as heavily edited excerpts of this recording found their way to the B side of the 2nd official WR album I Sing The Body ElectricFind albums with this title, which included the a.m. November studio recordings as side A – all this probably due to the fact that Columbia was anxious to have the next WR album out ASAP and didn’t want to wait for the more studio recordings. So much for the background and now for the music. As usual with WR, the personnel changes started already at this early stage and in the cause of the very few months since the recording of the debut album the original WR drummer Alphonse MouzonFind albums by this artist was replaced by Eric GravattFind albums by this artist and original percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist was replaced by another Brazilian Master Don Um RomaoFind albums by this artist. More importantly however, the music of the band changed also quite dramatically. The debut album was an all-acoustic affair and here we have Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist using electric piano, modulators and other electronic devices, which eventually would dominate the WR sound. The overall sound is now almost identical to the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist´ In A Silent WayFind albums with this title / Bitches BrewFind albums with this title sessions, with the intensity equal to the legendary Miles’ Fillmore concerts. The music is presented in a form of four extended medleys (the longest of which lasts for over 26 minutes), mixing expanded versions of compositions present on the debut album with those recorded during the a.m. November sessions and yet others that appear only here. The group improvisations and the telepathic interplay are fearfully intense. Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist bravely provides the steady pulsation, which cements the basis on which his companions embark into their sonic ventures. Gravatt is all over the rhythmic patterns and Romao brilliantly fills the spaces. WR strength was always in their live performances, since their studio efforts somehow lacked much of the spontaneity, drive, inspiration and vigor present on stage. This recording, in addition to its heavenly contents, has also a tremendous historic value, as it is the only one in existence documenting the early (and to many the most interesting) stage of the band. It also provides the wonderful introspective peek at the most interesting (regardless of genre) period in the history of 20th Century music, during the convoluted period where all boundaries seemed to be irrelevant and the unexpected was expected. There would be very few moments in the years that followed that either WR or any other band for that matter would reach the same level of creative genius or performance intensity. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 2 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ THE COLUMBIA ALBUMS 1971-1975
SONY 886919934229 (Barcode: 886919934229) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1971 - 1975 Released: 2012
It is almost impossible to imagine contemporary music in general and Jazz in particular without the contribution made by Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, one of the most eminent, pioneering and revolutionary ensembles that ever existed. In the decade and a half that the band recorded and performed music together, they managed to set an example to entire generations of musicians, changing the face of music as we know it.
From day one Weather Report was different. Although it is considered an American band, in fact it included at any given time of its existence more members that were not American-born than those that were. They band´s basic concept was different from everything that was a standard at the time and put forward collective improvisation and multicultural musical approach rather than the standard theme followed by individual solos approach. Also the band kept constantly evolving, frequently changing lineups, styles and sound, totally unpredictable and free of any conventions.
Weather Report was formed by two musical friends, who knew each other for quite a while before their individual careers allowed them to join forces and make music together. Austrian-born keyboardist / composer Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist and American saxophonist / composer Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist had both paid their dues in top Jazz ensembles of the 1960s, most importantly both playing in the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist revolutionary ensemble of the "Bitches BrewFind albums with this title" period. Joined by the Czech-born bassist / composer Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist, the original band was born, with American drummer Alphonse MouzonFind albums by this artist and Brazilian-born percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist. The double drums / percussion team would be kept throughout the entire history of the band, with just one brief period when the lineup was just a quartet.
During the first five years of its existence Weather Report recorded six albums, including the live double LP, which was initially only released in Japan, all of which are included in this magnificent Box Set. The bonus tracks are taken from the two compilation albums: "Forecast: TomorrowFind albums with this title" and "Live And UnreleasedFind albums with this title", which were released in the 2000s. Vitous left the band at the end of this period, playing only on one track of the last album in this Box Set, which marked the end of the first phase of the band, which would soon enter a new phase when Jaco Pastorius joined Weather Report, a phase which is documented by the other Box Set of Weather Report albums called "The Columbia Albums 1976-1982Find albums with this title".
This Box Set is not only a holy grail of contemporary music, but also a sublime document of the music itself going through a perpetual change and transition. It is beyond recommendation, as its place on the pedestal of contemporary canon was already established long before these lines were written. Essential stuff!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 7 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ WEATHER REPORT
COLUMBIA 468212 (Barcode: 5099746821227) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 1991
1st album by Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, the greatest Fusion band ever, and a pivotal recording, which would change the face of music for generations to come. The core members of Weather Report were Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist (keyboards) and Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist (saxophones), two prominent members of the 1960s Miles DavisFind albums by this artist ensembles, and a young Czech bass player Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist (who played with Davis for a brief period of time only). Vitous arrived in the US in 1966 on a Berklee scholarship (like Zawinul almost a decade earlier) but soon after left the school to explore the soaring jazz scene in NY, where he played with Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, Herbie MannFind albums by this artist, Stan GetzFind albums by this artist and many others. After meeting Zawinul and Shorter the decision was made to start a new group, which would continue the direction set by Davis on his historic In A Silent WayFind albums with this title / Bitches BrewFind albums with this title sessions, based on a collaborative / group improvisation (Davis was moving in the meantime into a more funk oriented period). To complete the group they drafted another ex-Davis musician, the Brazilian percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist and a young drummer Alphonse MouzonFind albums by this artist. The debut album, recorded soon after the band was formed, reveals with full force the extraordinary rapport the members of the group established immediately, transcending their individual personalities. The music is mostly atmospheric, free form and with subtle melody lines, mostly concealed beneath the improvisations. Thus began a journey, which lasted for over 15 years, which would place Weather Report on the forefront on contemporary music and create a model followed by countless jazz and fusion musicians all over the world to this very day. Although the group would undergo multiple personnel changes and stylistic swings, their innovative, groundbreaking and often prophetic leadership would remain unchallenged. In retrospect it’s interesting to see that something, which is considered a core of American culture, was in fact created by a group in which American born musicians were in fact a minority, with Zawinul and Vitous coming from Europe and Moreira from Brazil. It can be also considered as foretelling, since future Weather Report would be one of the first bands to include World Music elements into fusion. This is monumental stuff, absolutely essential listening and a historical document of great importance.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
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