Record Reviews

ZAWINUL SYNDICATE ~ BLACK WATER / LOST TRIBES BGO 1417 (Barcode: 5017261214171) ~ AUSTRIA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion Recorded: 1989 - 1992 Released: 2020 This is a reissue of the second and third albums released on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label by The Zawinul SyndicateFind albums by this artist, the ensemble led by Austrian keyboardist / composer Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, following the cessation of the legendary Weather ReportFind albums by this artist. The ensemble continued the musical path of the late period Weather Report, mixing Jazz-Rock Fusion with World Music and Pop elements. Veteran Zawinul was supported by much younger American musicians and the lineup of the ensemble changed over time several times. "Black WaterFind albums with this title", released in 1989, features guitarist Scott HendersonFind albums by this artist, bassist Gerald VeasleyFind albums by this artist, drummer Cornell RochesterFind albums by this artist and percussionist Munyungo JacksonFind albums by this artist, with occasional vocal parts by Lynne Fiddmont-LinseyFind albums by this artist and other vocalists. The album presents nine tracks, seven of which are original compositions by Zawinul and two are arrangements by compositions by Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist. "Lost TribesFind albums with this title", released in 1992, features new members: guitarist Randy BernsenFind albums by this artist, drummer Mike BakerFind albums by this artist and percussionist Bobby Thomas, Jr.Find albums by this artist, with Veasley on bass but also playing keyboards alongside the leader. The album presents ten original compositions, nine by Zawinul and one by Veasley. Following the third album Zawinul and his ensemble was dropped by Columbia and recorded a few additional albums on small independent labels until his death at the age of 75 in 2007. These two albums perfectly reflect Zawinul´s genius as a composer and performer and his everlasting search for new forms of expression and his exploration of worldwide influences. In retrospect this music sounds significantly better than how it appeared at the time of its release, dismissed by critics and fans as way to commercial. But in truth it sounds today quite visionary, especially in comparison to what people call music today. The ensemble was a first rate live act, which I was lucky to catch several times, and managed to restore similar energies as live shows by Weather Report. Considering that the original copies of these two albums are quite difficult to find, this remastered reissue is a true Godsend. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 11/09/2020Posted: 11/09/2020

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