Record Reviews

WOLFGANG LACKERSCHMID ~ LAKE GENEVA HIPJAZZ 015 (Barcode: 4250095882845) ~ GERMANY ~ Smooth Jazz Recorded: 1995 Released: 2018 This is a reissue of an album by German Jazz vibraphonist / composer Wolfgang LackerschmidFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with American guitarist Chuck LoebFind albums by this artist and bassist John LeeFind albums by this artist and Danish percussionist Marilyn MazurFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten original compositions, three each by Lackerschmid, Loeb and Lee and one by Mazur. This remastered edition adds one bonus track. The music is a typical American influenced Fusion, which resembles music played by other ensembles at the time, especially Steps AheadFind albums by this artist led by American vibraphonist Mike MainieriFind albums by this artist, of which Loeb was a member. The music is very melodic and easy on the ear, bordering on Smooth Jazz, but always elegant and solid. The compositions are kept within a defined harmonic framework, serving as basis for lengthy improvisations, mostly by Loeb. Of course the performances are highly professional, as appropriate of musicians of this class. Overall this is a very pleasant album, enjoyable like an afternoon breeze, but not very ambitious musically. A nice groove and a relaxed mood are the main elements this music stands for. This is ideal for listeners who like American Fusion / Groove music with a lot of gentle guitar work up front. Although this music is over two decades old, it is still perfectly valid within the Smooth Jazz framework.

Updated: 08/07/2018Posted: 08/07/2018

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend