Record Reviews
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  | GRAHAM NASH ~ WILD TALES
ATLANTIC 075678143229 (Barcode: 075678143229) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 1985
This is the second solo album by British singer / songwriter Graham NashFind albums by this artist, one of the 20th Century Classic Rock icons, who is still active today. After a glorious career in the UK as a member of the legendary group The HolliesFind albums by this artist, Nash moved to the USA to join David CrosbyFind albums by this artist and Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist (and later Neil YoungFind albums by this artist) to form one of the most influential Classic Rock bands in history: Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist (and Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist). Nash was decisively the catalyst and bonding element of these bands, with his British Cultural background, lyricism and superb feel of vocal harmony, as well as his personal manners and attitude, which was often in complete contrast to his American partners.
The album presents ten original songs, all written (music and lyrics) by Nash. Nash is supported by a formidable team of musicians, which includes vocalist Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist, guitarists David LindleyFind albums by this artist, David Crosby and Dave MasonFind albums by this artist, Neil Young on piano, bassist Tim DrummondFind albums by this artist, drummer John BarbataFind albums by this artist and numerous others.
The songs are somewhat darker and more introvert that those on his debut album, but all are superbly crafted and executed. Each and every one of these songs is a microcosm of inventive songwriting and lyrical sensitivity that Nash is blessed with. His exceptional harmonic and melodic aesthetics and his social awareness are strongly present in the fabric of the lyrics, as always.
At the time of its release this album was received coldly by the music critics and to this very day is not considered as one of his best achievements, which of course is a complete poppycock, as this music withstands the test of time formidably and remains an archetypal example of Classic Rock.
How sad that nobody makes music like this any more…
| | Updated: 26/10/2018Posted: 10/09/2018 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CROSBY, STILLS, NASH & YOUNG ~ AMERICAN DREAM
ATLANTIC 075678188824 (Barcode: 075678188824) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1988 Released: 1988
This is the second studio album by the iconic Classic Rock group Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist. The four singers / songwriters are supported by bassist Bob GlaubFind albums by this artist, drummer Joe VitaleFind albums by this artist, percussionist Joe LalaFind albums by this artist and several other guests. The album presents fourteen original songs, recorded over a period of several months in 1988 an written or co-written by the group members and the musicians playing on the album, with Neil YoungFind albums by this artist being involved in writing half of the songs on the album.
Personal conflicts, ego wars and genuine problems prevented Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young from fulfilling their tremendous potential and the fact that they managed to record only three studio albums is a travesty. "American DreamFind albums with this title" is a truly prophetic title, since the two decades that separate the recording of this album from their groundbreaking debut "Déjà VuFind albums with this title" not only changed the worldwide music scene but also marked the shattering of the America Dream in every aspect: political, social, moral and intellectual. The days of Freedom and Hope were gone and the bleak reality took over.
If any other group wrote and recorded these fourteen songs they would have been considered as excellent, but sadly in comparison to their glorious past these songs, which also suffered from the 1980s production malady, sound somewhat pale and underachieved, which gave both the critics and even the faithful fans plenty of opportunity to bitch bitterly.
To be fair, in retrospect the album is not that bad at all, surely not in comparison to what passes as music these days. Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young did not loose their ability to compose superb melodies, write meaningful lyrics and sing sublime vocal harmonies, which can all be found on this album. If not for the somewhat muddy sound and dreadful synthesizers the album sounds quite nice and surprisingly stands the test of time relatively well, especially so the two David CrosbyFind albums by this artist songs, which are up to par with his usual classics.
Overall this is perhaps not the greatest recording by these iconic musicians, but definitely an album worth to be remembered and re-visited periodically, making sure it is not forgotten.
| | Updated: 19/01/2019Posted: 19/01/2019 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CROSBY, STILLS & NASH ~ LIVE IT UP
ATLANTIC 075678210723 (Barcode: 075678210723) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1989 - 1990 Released: 1990
This is the fourth studio album by the iconic Classic Rock trio Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist. This album started as a Crosby & NashFind albums by this artist project, which than evolved into a trio album with Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist. Assisted by a plethora of guest musicians, like keyboardist Craig DoergeFind albums by this artist, bassist Bob GlaubFind albums by this artist, drummer Joe VitaleFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Branford MarsalisFind albums by this artist and others, the trio managed to produce ten splendid new songs, mostly co-written by the trio members, members of the band and other musicians / friends.
Although poorly received both by the critics and the fans at the time, the music is characterized by the usual amazing vocal harmonies, great melodies and superb instrumental work, which is as good as anything they recorded earlier. The 1980s production techniques, synthesized sounds and other atrocities of the time are definitely present, hindering the intrinsic beauty of the music, but to be fair they can be discarded and ignored, certainly in a retrospective glimpse. Perhaps the trio members could have stuck to the acoustic approach and Classic Rock aesthetics, but if they did, they would have been accused of being outdated. You can´t win with the critics.
In historical perspective this album sadly remains overshadowed by the early work of the trio and the fact that it was released at the time when Classic Rock was being pushed out by other (then) contemporary musical trends, which in time led to the annihilation of Rock Music at large. For the true fans and connoisseurs of the trio´s recorded works, this album is an absolute must of course.
| | Updated: 14/02/2019Posted: 14/02/2019 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | STEPHEN STILLS ~ STEPHEN STILLS 2
ATLANTIC 075678238925 (Barcode: 075678238925) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 1991
This is the second studio album by iconic American singer / guitarist / songwriter Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist. Following the release of the epic debut albums with Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist and Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist, Stills was the second member of these groups to release a solo album, and in his case two solo albums in rapid succession, his eponymous debut and this, its successor. He was supported on this album by bassist Calvin SamuelsFind albums by this artist and drummers Conrad IsidoreFind albums by this artist and Dallas TaylorFind albums by this artist, as well as several high profile guests like keyboardists Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist and Billy PrestonFind albums by this artist and guitarists Nils LofgrenFind albums by this artist, Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist and Jerry GarciaFind albums by this artist. David CrosbyFind albums by this artist and others sung backing vocals on some tracks and the famous Memphis HornsFind albums by this artist played brass arrangements on selected tracks. The album presents twelve original songs, all by Stills.
Although coldly received by the critics at the time, in retrospect this album is a splendid collection of superbly crafted songs, which Stills has been weaving with great talent since his Buffalo SpringfieldFind albums by this artist days. His ability to amalgam American Country, Folk and Blues with Rock and even Latin Music enables him to create a versatile musical output matched only by a few other songwriters of his generation.
In retrospect the album stands the test of time wonderfully, without losing any of its superb melodic sensitivities, sincerity and values. Stills might not be a highly sophisticated lyricist, but his honesty and straightforwardness are often more explicit and striking than complex lyrics created by his peers.
Almost fifty years after this album was created, it still offers more music than most of the "music" created today, which of course is hardly surprising.
| | Updated: 31/07/2019Posted: 25/01/2019 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CROSBY, STILLS, NASH & YOUNG ~ 4 WAY STREET
ATLANTIC 075678240829 (Barcode: 075678240829) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 1992
This is the first live album by the iconic Classic Rock band Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist, recorded during the 1970 tour promoting their debut album "Déjà VuFind albums with this title". The four band members are accompanied by bassist Calvin SamuelsFind albums by this artist and drummer Johnny BarbataFind albums by this artist. The album was originally released as a double LP, with the first LP including acoustic performances in various configurations and the second LP including electric performances by the full band. When first released on CD (as a double CD) in 1992, the first CD was expanded to include four additional individual acoustic performances. Additional tracks recorded during this tour were later released on the "CSN (Box Set)Find albums with this title" compilation.
The material includes songs from the debut album by the group as well as songs from the debut album by Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist. In addition songs from solo albums by all four members, which were still unrecorded or unreleased at that time, were also included.
Despite the enormous tension and personal dispute between the band members, the performances are all perfectly executed, as expected. The acoustic and electric sides of the band´s "personality" are representative of their collective immense talent both as musicians and performers.
In retrospect it is interesting to compare these youthful performances with the later renditions of the same songs in order to follow the development of these wonderful artists over the years and watch them gracefully getting mature and even old, without losing any of their talent or artistic integrity.
For the numerous fans and followers of the group this is an essential piece of their legacy!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: 21/01/2019 | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | DAVID CROSBY ~ THOUSAND ROADS
ATLANTIC 075678248429 (Barcode: 075678248429) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1993 Released: 1993
This is the third studio album by the iconic American singer / songwriter David CrosbyFind albums by this artist released four years after its predecessor "Oh Yes I CanFind albums with this title". The album was recorded in different studios, with many different musicians (almost fifty), including the "regulars" like bassist Leland SklarFind albums by this artist, drummer Russell KunkelFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Craig DoergeFind albums by this artist, as well as a long list of guest appearances by such legends as Phil CollinsFind albums by this artist, Jimmy WebbFind albums by this artist, Graham NashFind albums by this artist, Jackson BrowneFind albums by this artist and others. The album presents ten songs, only one of which (the title song) was written by Crosby and two were co-written by him (one with Collins and one with Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist).
Although this is still very much Crosby at his best as a singer, the fact that the songs are not his in most cases create an overall orientation towards Pop, more apparent than on any of his other albums. The instrumental work is of course superb all the way through, although again suffering a bit from the 1990s production drawbacks (too much keyboards).
In retrospect this is still very much an album worth remembering, despite the fact that it was rather neglected by his fans over time. Crosby is simply way too talented to make music not up to par with the best efforts out there. Sadly this album was to mark a twenty one years long period of absence as far as solo albums were concerned, except for the live album "It`s All Coming Back To Me NowFind albums with this title" released in 1995. His triumphant comeback with the album "CrozFind albums with this title" in 2014 marked a new period of ferocious activity, which continues to this very day.
This is definitely an album worth being rediscovered by all those Crosby fans that missed it at the time of its release, and of course a valuable lesson to young listeners, to get idea about what music is all about!
| | Updated: 10/07/2018Posted: 10/07/2018 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | DAVID CROSBY ~ IT`S ALL COMING BACK TO ME NOW...
ATLANTIC 075678262029 (Barcode: 075678262029) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1993 Released: 1994
This is the first live album by the iconic American singer / songwriter David CrosbyFind albums by this artist, recorded in December 1993 during the tour promoting the studio album "Thousand RoadsFind albums with this title" released a few months earlier. Crosby is accompanied by a dreamy band, which features guitarist Jeff PevarFind albums by this artist, bassist James HutchinsonFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Michael FinniganFind albums by this artist and drummer Jody CortezFind albums by this artist. Two vocalists: Graham NashFind albums by this artist & Kipp LennonFind albums by this artist sing beautiful harmonies with Crosby on the last three tracks and Chris RobinsonFind albums by this artist sings lead and backing vocals on one track. The album presents ten songs, all written or co-written by Crosby, two of which are previously unrecorded and the rest originate from the first three solo albums by Crosby and the Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist and Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist debut albums.
The album is of course an essential Classic Rock performance, with Crosby and the band being in superb form and the sound of the recording representing accurately what was happening on the stage. In a way it is a summary of the first phase of Crosby´s illustrious career, beautifully presenting both his songwriting and performing talents. This album was followed by two decades of silence, as far as Crosby´s solo recording career was concerned.
Crosby was and still undoubtedly is a voice of his (and mine) generation, not only as a composer but also as a lyricist, who touches upon subjects mostly ignored by the entertainment industry. His social consciousness was one of the most prominent voices of its kind in America, and although the American Social revolution of the late 1960s failed miserably, his statements will remain as historical evidence that some people at least cared and tried.
This music is absolutely timeless of course and it sounds today way better than the "musical" rubbish the world is drowning in. For Crosby followers this is an essential part of his legacy, but every Classic Rock fan should be able to enjoy this album in full!
| | Updated: 18/01/2019Posted: 26/10/2018 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CROSBY, STILLS, NASH & YOUNG ~ DÉJÀ VU
ATLANTIC 075678264924 (Barcode: 075678264924) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 1994
This is the debut album by the iconic Classic Rock band Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist, considered as one of the most important and pivotal Rock albums of all time. The group combined four young (at the time) Rock stars: the hippie dreamer David CrosbyFind albums by this artist, the folksy / bluesy Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist, the elegant, intellectual and romantic Brit Graham NashFind albums by this artist and the tough rocker Neil YoungFind albums by this artist, all four blessed with extraordinary voices and sublime songwriting talents. This unique combination of musical personalities already tested and perfected within the Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist framework was simply matchless by any contemporary Rock group at the time. This highly anticipated album, following the instant fame and glory of the group due to their stellar Woodstock Festival appearance proved to be everything that might have been expected and more. Assisted by bassist Greg ReevesFind albums by this artist and drummer Dallas TaylorFind albums by this artist (and a brief contributions by Jerry GarciaFind albums by this artist and John SebastianFind albums by this artist) they recorded nine original songs (two by each of the group members and one co-written by Stills and Young) and the cherry on top in the form of the Woodstock Generation anthem, the Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist song "Woodstock" inspired by the festival´s events.
The music is a prefect blend of vocal harmonies and instrumental work, which renders sublimely the beauty and the depth of the compositions. The clever and meaningful lyrics add another layer to the musical framework, creating a set of songs, which in time became anthems not only in the long and successful career of the group and its individual members, but more importantly reached a legendary status of Anthems of a Generation, which firmly stands to this very day.
It is very difficult to understand what makes this album to stand out from thousands of other recordings of the period. Beyond the above mentioned objective reasons, which contribute to its success, there are also additional factors, historical, social, psychological and even philosophical. This album defines a specific moment in American history, in which the "American Values" were seriously questioned, perhaps for the first time. The anguish and the confusion of the young generation (in America, but also in the entire world for that matter) were perfectly echoed in the songs by the Classic Rock Artists, who were the bards and often the prophets of their generation, continuing the process initiated in the 1950s by the Beat Generation and continued by the Protest Poets of the 1960 (Woody GuthrieFind albums by this artist, Bob DylanFind albums by this artist). Sadly that poignant moment of American history proved to be brief, and tragically insignificant in retrospect. The mass media and political / social processes proved to be most successful in turning the American public into a mindless mob.
Now, almost fifty years after it´s release, this is still a sublime piece of music, which deserves to be cherished, remembered and repeatedly re-visited by every sensitive, open-minded cultural person on this planet.
| | Updated: 21/01/2019Posted: 21/01/2019 | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | CROSBY, STILLS & NASH ~ CSN
ATLANTIC 075678265020 (Barcode: 075678265020) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1976 - 1977 Released: 1994
This is the second studio album by the iconic Classic Rock trio Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist. During the eight years that separate the trio´s eponymous debut album and this sophomore release the trio members were involved in the quartet Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist recordings, solo recordings and the Crosby & NashFind albums by this artist duo recordings among other activities, but did not manage to record together as a trio, which of course caused this album to be highly anticipated at the time. Assisted by a plethora of guest musicians like drummers Joe VitaleFind albums by this artist and Russell KunkelFind albums by this artist, keyboardists Craig DoergeFind albums by this artist and Michael FinniganFind albums by this artist, bassist George PerryFind albums by this artist and even including a string section, the trio managed to produce twelve splendid new songs, three by David CrosbyFind albums by this artist, five by Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist and four by Graham NashFind albums by this artist, which stand up to the level of the material included on the legendary debut album.
The music is characterized by the usual amazing vocal harmonies, great melodies and superb instrumental work, creating an instant classic, which in retrospect turned out to be the trio´s all time best selling album, outselling even the legendary debut. Mature and more experienced, the trio members might have lost some of their spontaneity and edge, but definitely gained finesse and sensitivity, and most importantly depth. The lyrics remain powerful and meaningful, and are an integral part of the overall artistic delivery.
The four songs by Nash turn out to be the strongest songs on the album, especially so the epic "Cathedral", which is probably his strongest song written after leaving the Hollies. But all the songs on this album are up to par with the usual standard expected from these great Artists.
In historical perspective this album sadly remains overshadowed by the early work of the trio and the fact that it was released at the time when Classic Rock was being pushed out by other (then) contemporary musical trends, which in time led to the annihilation of Rock Music at large.
For the fans and connoisseurs of the trio´s recorded works, this album is an absolute must of course.
| | Updated: 25/01/2019Posted: 25/01/2019 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CROSBY, STILLS & NASH ~ AFTER THE STORM
ATLANTIC 075678265426 (Barcode: 075678265426) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1994
This is the fifth (and so far the last) studio album by the iconic Classic Rock trio Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist. This album celebrated the 25th Anniversary of their legendary debut album and its release was followed by extensive touring. Assisted by a plethora of guest musicians, like keyboardists Craig DoergeFind albums by this artist and Michael FinniganFind albums by this artist, bassist James HutchinsonFind albums by this artist, and also including two Stills´ children and son of the album´s producer, the trio managed to produce eleven splendid new songs, two by David CrosbyFind albums by this artist, four by Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist, three by Graham NashFind albums by this artist and two co-written by Crosby with Nash or Stills. The only song coming from outside the group is an adaptation of a BeatlesFind albums by this artist song.
Although poorly received both by the critics and the fans at the time, the music is characterized by the usual amazing vocal harmonies, great melodies and superb instrumental work, which is as good anything they recorded earlier, but might have sounded dated by (then) contemporary listeners. Mature and more experienced, the trio members might have lost some of their spontaneity and edge, but definitely gained finesse and sensitivity, and most importantly depth. The lyrics remain powerful and meaningful, and are an integral part of the overall artistic delivery.
In historical perspective this album sadly remains overshadowed by the early work of the trio and the fact that it was released at the time when Classic Rock was being pushed out by other (then) contemporary musical trends, which in time led to the annihilation of Rock Music at large. For the true fans and connoisseurs of the trio´s recorded works, this album is an absolute must of course.
| | Updated: 02/02/2019Posted: 02/02/2019 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | STEPHEN STILLS / MANASSAS ~ MANASSAS
ATLANTIC 075678280825 (Barcode: 075678280825) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 1996
This is the debut album by the short-lived excellent band ManassasFind albums by this artist led by legendary American Rock icon Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist which also included ex-ByrdsFind albums by this artist / Flying Burrito BrothersFind albums by this artist vocalist / guitarist Chris HillmanFind albums by this artist, guitarist Al PerkinsFind albums by this artist, bassist Calvin SamuelsFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Paul HarrisFind albums by this artist, drummer Dallas TaylorFind albums by this artist and percussionist Joe LalaFind albums by this artist. Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist bassist Bill WymanFind albums by this artist guests on several tracks. The original double LP album presents twenty one excellent songs, split across the four sides of the two LPs with a separate subtitle for each of the sides, all bar one written or co-written by Stills and superbly performed by the band.
Stills emerges on the album not only as a first rate vocalist, guitarist and bandleader but primarily as a superb songwriter, cementing his status initiated as a member of Buffalo SpringfieldFind albums by this artist and Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist, where he already contributed some of his finest creations and his material featured on the two solo albums released before forming Manassas. Musically the album epitomizes the best of American Rock, which emerged from the amalgam of Blues, Folk and Country music with electric Rock And Roll. Plenty of heartfelt vocals, excellent vocal harmonies and surging guitar work supported by rock steady rhythm section were the ingredients of the irresistible formula that American Rock knew how to push to the max at the time.
In retrospect this album is often considered as one of the top achievements of American Classic Rock in the 1970s, listed side by side such albums as Derek And The DominosFind albums by this artist masterpiece "Layla And Other Assorted Love SongsFind albums with this title". Dedicated to the great and prematurely dead American Rock Heroes: Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, Al WilsonFind albums by this artist (of Canned HeatFind albums by this artist) and Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, Stills clearly defines his influences and pays tribute to the fallen victims of the demanding Rock careers.
An essential piece of the American Classic Rock heritage, this album is a must in any serious Classic Rock collection and definitely worth to be re-discovered by the new generations of listeners.
| | Updated: 18/01/2019Posted: 18/01/2019 | CD 1 HDCD Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | STEPHEN STILLS ~ STEPHEN STILLS
ATLANTIC 075678280924 (Barcode: 075678280924) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 1995
This is the debut album by American singer / songwriter / multi-instrumentalist and one of the greatest icons of American Classic Rock, Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist. Released alongside the solo albums by his fellow members of Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist, which were recorded following the release of their debut "Déjà VuFind albums with this title" album, where each of the four musicians emphasized his personal preferences and stylistic idiosyncrasies. Although Stills plays many different instruments on the album and sings the lead vocals, he is supported by what seems to be a who´s who gathering of the Classic Rock icons, including John SebastianFind albums by this artist, David CrosbyFind albums by this artist and Graham NashFind albums by this artist on vocals, guitarists Jimmy HendrixFind albums by this artist and Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, drummers Ringo StarrFind albums by this artist and Dallas TaylorFind albums by this artist, bassists Calvin SamuelsFind albums by this artist and many others. The album presents ten original songs, all by Stills, many of which remain to shine brightly fifty years later as timeless Classic Rock anthems.
Stylistically Stills continues the Buffalo SpringfieldFind albums by this artist songwriting tradition as well as developing new ventures into Classic Rock balladry and embraces social awareness as one of his main themes. Although received relatively coldly at the time of its release, Stills and this album proved the critics and to some extent the fans wrong, as this material grew stronger in time, serving as a painful contrast to songwriting, which followed later on. Stills´ unique talent to combine the electric guitar with great melody lines remains sadly unparalleled over the years.
The album offers an incredible diversity, flirting with Rock, Jazz, Country, World Music and many other influences, which at the time were truly prophetic and ahead of their time. Stills simply refused to be boxed within the Pop / Rock boundaries, which made him one of the great heroes of the era.
I can´t imagine any serious record collection that does not include a copy of this milestone album, way beyond the strict Classic Rock frame of reference. It still is one of the greatest American Rock albums of all times and it doesn´t look like this will change anytime in the foreseeable future. An absolute epic essential must have!
| | Updated: 28/03/2019Posted: 28/03/2019 | CD 1 HDCD Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | LED ZEPPELIN ~ CELEBRATION DAY (DELUXE EDITION)
ATLANTIC 081227968823 (Barcode: 081227968823) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2012
On December 10, 2007 Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist, the greatest Rock band of all times, reunited for a one-time performance at the 02 Arena in London, with original members Robert PlantFind albums by this artist (vocals), Jimmy PageFind albums by this artist (guitar) and John Paul JonesFind albums by this artist (bass and keyboards) and with their original drummer John BonhamFind albums by this artist (who died in 1980) replaced by his son Jason BonhamFind albums by this artist. At the time of the concert they were 59, 63, 61 and 41 years old respectively. 20 million people entered the on-line lottery to win the opportunity to buy tickets for this concert, with black market prices eventually reaching astronomical sums. The concert lasted for just over two hours (without any breaks) with the band performing 16 songs (including two encores).
Exactly five years later the sound and video recordings of this concert were finally released on CD and DVD, with this edition comprising of two CDs and two DVDs. The second DVD is a one-camera shot of the band´s rehearsal, which took place on December 6, 2007, and contains the same sequence and content as the actual concert recording. The concert was officially called the "Ahmet ErtegunFind albums by this artist Tribute Concert", dedicated to the memory of the legendary president of AtlanticFind albums by this artist Records, Led Zeppelin´s record label, who died a year earlier (December 14, 2006), but of course the Led Zeppelin concert was above all a tribute to Led Zeppelin.
Time, as people my age get to experience, is ruthless and for Rock musicians that reality is even crueler than for most other performers, simply for the reason that Rock is after all so much about energy and physical effort. Therefore many Rock dinosaurs cross the line of no return becoming a caricature of their earlier selves without realizing it. It happens to the best. It did not happen this time to Led Zeppelin, but it was damn close…
Of course they can still sing and play; but even a less trained ear can easily hear the limitations of Plant´s voice, who stays safely in the mid range and does not dear scream and whine as he used to do so magnificently, the lack of fluidity and exploration in Page´s solos, and so on. Jones is as solid as he always was and looks much younger than his mates, easily winning the title of the best preserved Zep around. Bonham, two decades younger than his cohorts is the true backbone of this entire show, imaginative, precise and as powerful as his late father; a living proof or reincarnation… (Or genetics?)
The sound quality of the recording is a bit mushy and the video, although well done technically, lacks imagination and eventually becomes a bit boring. The rehearsal DVD is a complete waste of time visually but the sound and some of the performances are actually better that those during the concert.
So what do we have here? Two hours of Led Zeppelin playing the music they played in the good old days and metaphorically performing a sermon in memoriam. Is it worth hearing? Of course it is; people who grew up with Led Zeppelin´s music in their veins will love every second of it, but please, PLEASE, don´t do it again! Let´s not ruin the memory…
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Thanks for the painfully honest review!
| | | 2CD+2DVD 4 Digipak Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | CROSBY, STILLS & NASH ~ CSN (BOX SET)
ATLANTIC 081227973230 (Barcode: 081227973230) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1968 - 1991 Released: 2013
Although released under the Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist moniker, this wonderful; 4CD compilation Box Set presents a selection of tracks that include also recordings by Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist, solo recordings by David CrosbyFind albums by this artist, Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist and Graham NashFind albums by this artist, recordings by the Crosby & NashFind albums by this artist duo, recordings by the group ManassasFind albums by this artist led by Stills and even a Stills & NashFind albums by this artist track, all captured on tape between 1968 and 1991. Of the seventy seven tracks included in this compilation, twenty five are previously unreleased, which is a perfectly good reason to own it, in addition of course to the obvious reason that it includes some of the best music even recorded on this planet. The Box Set includes also a wonderful booklet with an essay and detailed information about each of the tracks.
Obviously this is a career summary of these incredible musicians, which clearly proves that they were a true Classic Rock legends, individually and collectively. Their superb output created over a period of two decades has almost no parallels and is to this very day part of the essence of what we now refer to as Classic Rock.
Luckily for us, music lovers, all four of these musical heroes continued to create wonderful music after this collection was released, and now we are able to enjoy five decades of their collective and individual creations, which continue to be exciting, diverse and intellectually challenging.
This Box Set is the best and most comprehensive collection so far of the early period of Crosby, Stills & Nash output and a exquisite introduction to their music for the new generation of listeners, but also a nice addition to any complete collection of their recording thanks to those unreleased tracks it includes. Worth its weight in gold!
| | Updated: 29/01/2019Posted: 25/01/2019 | CD 4 Slipcase Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM NASH ~ SONGS FOR BEGINNERS
ATLANTIC 081227977078 (Barcode: 081227977078) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2011
This is the debut solo album by British singer / songwriter Graham NashFind albums by this artist, one of the 20th Century Classic Rock icons, who is still active today. After a glorious career in the UK as a member of the legendary group The HolliesFind albums by this artist, Nash moved to the USA to join David CrosbyFind albums by this artist and Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist (and later Neil YoungFind albums by this artist) to form one of the most influential Classic Rock bands in history: Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist (and Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist). Nash was decisively the catalyst and bonding element of these bands, with his British Cultural background, lyricism and superb feel of vocal harmony, as well as his personal manners and attitude, which was often in complete contrast to his American partners.
This album was recorded in wake of the success of the CSN&Y debut album "Déjà VuFind albums with this title" released in 1970, which prompted all four members of the band to release solo albums, all of which were superb pieces of musical ingenuity. In retrospect, however, this album and David Crosby´s "If I Could Only Remember My NameFind albums with this title" stand out as icons of the era.
The album presents eleven original songs, all written (music and lyrics) by Nash, except for one which was co-written with the British guitarist Terry ReidFind albums by this artist, an old friend and partner. Nash is supported by a formidable team of musicians, which includes vocalist Rita CoolidgeFind albums by this artist, Jerry GarciaFind albums by this artist, David Crosby and Dave MasonFind albums by this artist on guitars, Neil Young on piano, Bobby KeysFind albums by this artist on saxophone, bassist Calvin SamuelsFind albums by this artist and Phil LeshFind albums by this artist, drummers John BarbataFind albums by this artist and Dallas TaylorFind albums by this artist and numerous others.
The songs exemplify not only his exceptional harmonic and melodic qualities but also his social awareness, which is strongly present in the fabric of the lyrics, many of which would become an integral part of the protest songs sung by the young generation in the early 1970s, when lyrics were meaningful and could move mountains.
In retrospect this album is one of the absolute top achievements of the Classic Rock era, and remains completely relevant today, not losing an iota of its splendor and power over time. Almost half a Century after this music was created, it is still fresh, moving and exceedingly beautiful.
How sad that nobody makes music like this any more…
| | Updated: 09/09/2018Posted: 09/09/2018 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CROSBY & NASH ~ GRAHAM NASH / DAVID CROSBY
ATLANTIC 081227992538 (Barcode: 081227992538) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2008
This is the debut album by the celebrated team of singer / songwriter friends, American David CrosbyFind albums by this artist and British Graham NashFind albums by this artist. After the first split of Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist following the release of the seminal "Déjà VuFind albums with this title" album, all four members released solo albums and later on Crosby and Nash decided to form a duo and started to perform together with great artistic and commercial success, which led to the decision of formalizing the Crosby & NashFind albums by this artist moniker by recording an album together. After all it was the special affinity, both musical and personal, between Crosby and Nash, which led to Nash leaving The HolliesFind albums by this artist and moving to the US to join Crosby and Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist in order to create the magical triumvirate of Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist. On the album, in addition to both of them singing, Crosby also played guitars and Nash played keyboards. Many friends and musical peers took part in the recording, like guitarist Dave MasonFind albums by this artist, members of The Grateful DeadFind albums by this artist, the famous quartet of studio musicians called The SectionFind albums by this artist, which consisted of guitarist Danny KortchmarFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Craig DoergeFind albums by this artist, bassist Leland SklarFind albums by this artist and drummer Russell KunkelFind albums by this artist, and many others. The album presents eleven songs, six by Nash and five by Crosby. The album is dedicated to Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist.
The songs written by Crosby were quite different from those Nash wrote; Crosby, a dreamer and melancholic, wrote heartwrenching, Bluesy tunes, which caused depression and gloom, whereas Nash was his spiritual "nemesis" and wrote absolutely perfect love songs and romantic ballads. It was the combination of the two, which created the special magic, which this album exemplifies, expressed by their vocal harmonies, which are unparalleled to this very day.
These songs are all absolutely timeless and withstand the tides of time like stainless steel. Perfectly crafted, beautifully executed, full of harmony and offering meaningful lyrics, they are the epitome of song weaving, which is simply beyond trends, fads and fashions.
In retrospect this album stands among the best achievements of the fruitful legacy created by Crosby and Nash, both individually and collectively. It is an absolute must in any decent Rock record collection and a part of music history that is out there waiting to be discovered by younger generations of music lovers. They don´t make music like this any more, but at least we can still enjoy these gems, before we are all covered by heaps of garbage and dirt.
| | Updated: 21/01/2019Posted: 03/06/2018 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM NASH ~ INNOCENT EYES
ATLANTIC 081227992569 (Barcode: 081227992569) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1986 Released: 1986
This is the fourth solo album by the iconic British singer / songwriter Graham NashFind albums by this artist recorded in several studios with a huge team of studio musicians led by keyboardist Craig DoergeFind albums by this artist, who also co-produced the album. The album presents ten songs, five of which were composed by Nash and one was co-composed by him and Doerge.
Although the album is soaked in the dreadful 1980s synthesizers and drum machines sound, musically it still presents solid songwriting which is able to save the day eventually. It proves that Nash was able to sand shoulder to shoulder with Pop / Rock songwriters / musicians of the next generation and be successful within the changing format. Of course Nash could have stayed within the classic, almost completely acoustic genre, but his exploration of the (then) contemporary Pop / Rock sound and instrumentation is as valid as any other approach.
At the time of its release the album was slaughtered by the critics and the conservative Classic Rock listeners were not open to the new approach. Revisiting this album from a perspective of over three decades enables a new look at these songs, which stripped from the mannerisms of the period are all quite nice and withstand the test of time on the songwriting level.
For long time Nash fans such a nostalgic journey might prove to be worthwhile, although the album is not that easy to find on the market these days. I have not listened to it since close to its release time and I was pleasantly surprised with the result.
Nash earned his place on the pedestal of Classic Rock heroes and nothing is able to take it away, not even less successful releases like this one. If you happen to come across this album in the second hand stall don´t hesitate for a second and give it a chance.
| | Updated: 26/10/2018Posted: 26/10/2018 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACO PASTORIUS ~ WORD OF MOUTH
ATLANTIC 248246 (Barcode: 093624824626) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1980 Released: 2000
2nd album. Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist was one of the most tragic stars on the jazz firmament – a musical genius, whose life was wasted by a combination of mental illness and drug abuse. I am talking about a man who single-handedly re-defined the statue and the technique of the bass in jazz, a brilliant performer and immensely gifted composer and arranger. Tragically Pastorius recorded only three albums as a leader in the decade and a half he was active (all other albums are live recordings, which were never meant to be released). Following his eponymous self titled debut from 1976, he devised this album as a showcase of modern Big Band with the bass as a lead instrument. The recording involved over 70 musicians (a list of which reads like the Encyclopedia Britannica of Jazz) and was done in several studios around the world. The result is an absolutely brilliant album, which sounds as fresh today as it was when I heard it for the first time 25 years ago. Most of the material in penned by Pastorius, with the exceptions being a BeatlesFind albums by this artist tune (Blackbird – one of their best) and a classical theme by Bach. There is plenty of superb solos by the participating musicians, including Pastorius himself, but the aim of the recording is not to highlight individual players but to present the Big Band as an extended instrument in the hands of the composer / arranger (very much as other famous jazz orchestras have been earlier – Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist for example). Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES MINGUS ~ CHANGES: THE COMPLETE 1970S ATLANTIC STUDIO RECORDINGS
ATLANTIC 603497838363 (Barcode: 603497838363) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 - 1978 Released: 2023
This 7CD Box Set combines all the studio recordings made by the great American Jazz bassist / composer / bandleader Charles MingusFind albums by this artist for the AtlanticFind albums on this label label during the last period of his life between 1973 and 1978. These recordings were released on seven albums, which appear here in their remastered versions: “Mingus MovesFind albums with this title”, “Changes OneFind albums with this title”, “Changes TwoFind albums with this title”, “Three Or Four Shades Of BluesFind albums with this title”, “Cumbia & Jazz FusionFind albums with this title”, “Me, Myself An EyeFind albums with this title” and finally “Something Like A BirdFind albums with this title”. All the music on these albums, with a few exceptions, was composed by Mingus. CD1 adds two outtakes and CD5 adds one outtake. The LP version of this Box Set adds an entire LP8 with seven outtakes.
The list of participating musicians on these albums looks like the who’s who of the American Jazz scene at the time, with the most notable ones being saxophonists George AdamsFind albums by this artist, George ColemanFind albums by this artist and Ricky FordFind albums by this artist, pianist Don PullenFind albums by this artist, drummer Dannie RichmondFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Jack WalrathFind albums by this artist, guitarists Philip CatherineFind albums by this artist and Larry CoryellFind albums by this artist, and many others.
The above albums mark the second period of Mingus recordings for Atlantic. Between 1956 and 1961 he recorded several albums for the label, but he was not under exclusive contract with the label at the time. Those albums can be found in the great Box Set released in 1997, called “Passions Of A Man: The Complete Atlantic Recordings 1956-1961Find albums with this title”.
Overall, this Box Sets presents some of the most important American Jazz recordings of all time, preserving the incredible legacy of one of its most important protagonists. Mingus was a great innovator and at the same time a key keeper of the flame, combining the American Jazz tradition with modern trends, unlike most of his contemporaries, who preferred to be stuck in the past. This last period of his life turned out to be also perhaps his most productive and daring, definitely the most mature and aesthetically balanced. All of the music in this Box Set is a Holy Grail of American Jazz, sadly also one of the last displays of its productivity and genius. For Jazz lovers, who don’t own all these albums separately, this Box Set is an absolute must, but those who already have all this material in their collections, it adds almost nothing new, except for neat packaging and remastered sound quality.
| | Updated: 11/01/2024Posted: 11/01/2024 | CD 7 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES MINGUS ~ MINGUS AT CARNEGIE HALL (DELUXE EDITION)
ATLANTIC 603497844326 (Barcode: 603497844326) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2021
This is an expanded reissue / remaster of a live album by legendary American bassist / composer / bandleader Charles MingusFind albums by this artist, recorded on January 19, 1974 at the NY Carnegie Hall. The music was recorded by a sextet, which included trumpeter Jon FaddisFind albums by this artist, saxophonists George AdamsFind albums by this artist and Hamiet BluiettFind albums by this artist, pianist Don PullenFind albums by this artist and drummer Dannie RichmondFind albums by this artist. The sextet was expanded to a nonet on two tracks, with the addition of three saxophonists: John HandyFind albums by this artist, Rahsaan Roland KirkFind albums by this artist and Charles McPhersonFind albums by this artist. This 2CD edition presents seven tracks, adding five tracks (and over seventy minutes) of unreleased material. Four of the tracks last over twenty minutes and one just under twenty minutes. Three of the tracks are original compositions by Mingus, one is by Pullen, one is by Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist, one is a standard and finally one is a short spoken word introduction. The restored sound is absolutely pristine.
The music is, in many respects, a closing chapter of American Jazz, which summarizes the great Bebop period and the entry into Free Jazz, offering a gallery of instrumental Masters, who lament the grand times with obvious nostalgic glace over the shoulder, realizing the fact that the ride is over. The great leader / guru, one of the last standing figures of American Jazz, was playing one of the last live concerts in his career and would be dead in a few years and there was nobody in sight to carry the torch.
But the music is of course grand, from start to finish, with incredible soloing and great group improvisations, kept carefully in check by the boss. They were, after all, the crème de la crème of the scene at the time and clearly could outplay anybody out there. Mingus’ compositions are ideal vehicles for the orgy of sound and camaraderie that prevails, and despite the fact that they are not innovating anything, they clearly learned the lesson of the decade preceding this recording, laying any doubts about Bebop being over to rest.
Overall, this is a monster album, which deserves an honorable place in every decent Jazz records collection, not only because of the incredible amount of great music it offers, but more importantly because of the message it so vividly sends to the Jazz world: Bebop was great, we took everything there was to take from it, now please let it rest in peace!
| | Updated: 28/01/2024Posted: 28/01/2024 | CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOE ZAWINUL ~ ZAWINUL
ATLANTIC 81375 (Barcode: 075678137525) ~ AUSTRIA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 1994
This sadly overlooked and almost forgotten masterpiece by Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist is one of the most pivotal recordings of the emerging Jazz-Rock Fusion movement. Following Zawinul’s stint with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist (with whom he recorded the timeless masterpiece In A Silent WayFind albums with this title), he was looking for a new environment to express his unique music vision, which combined his European classical music heritage and the American jazz tradition, spiced by the funky and rock rhythmic patterns. His vision was to be realized soon, when the greatest Fusion group of all times – Weather ReportFind albums by this artist – was formed just weeks after this album was recorded.
In fact this album could (or rather should) be considered the first Weather Report album for several reasons: two soon to be Weather Report founding members – Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist (bass) and Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist (saxophone) take part in these sessions and the musical direction of the future group is basically all present here already. The main difference is that Zawinul decided to invite his ex-Davis partner Herbie Hancock to play along with him on this album, making it a double keyboards affair. The effect of two exceptional keyboards players soloing in tandem and in parallel creates a magic atmosphere, reminiscent of course of the Davis recordings. Other prominent musicians taking part in these sessions include the great Wood ShawFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Walter BookerFind albums by this artist on bass, Joe ChambersFind albums by this artist and Billy HartFind albums by this artist on drums, etc.
All the performances are of course absolutely brilliant, with Vitous contributing some superb bow solos, which compliment the music perfectly. I have no idea why this album is not given its proper importance as a true classic, but in my book this is an absolutely essential piece of music.
| | Updated: 31/08/2021Posted: | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | LED ZEPPELIN ~ BBC SESSIONS
ATLANTIC 83061 ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Led Zeppelin fans and admirers had to wait for 28 years (till 1997) for these sessions to see the light of day on a formal release. This is a great pity, as Zed Zeppelin’s recorded legacy had very little to offer as far as live performances are concerned. Except for the double LP soundtrack album to their pseudo-documentary movie “The Song Remains The Same” (recorded at the Madison Square Garden in July 1973 and released in 1976), which is considered both by the band and the fans as a rather unfortunate representation of their otherwise superb on-stage performances, no other live recordings were released. The only live Led Zeppelin tracks were available on a myriad of bootleg recordings, often of dubious quality, including various versions of the BBC sessions included here. This exceptional album collects the entire material recorded by Led Zeppelin for the BBC. The first CD includes three sessions recorded in March and June 1969, after the release of their landmark debut album and before the release of the second album. The second CD includes an entire concert performance from April 1971, before the release of their fourth album. Although the BBC sessions are not really “live” recordings as such, these performances provide an excellent record of what Led Zeppelin did on stage, as opposed to their perfectionist studio work. It is obvious that live Led Zeppelin were first and foremost an improvisational band (much like Cream before them), and therefore every performance of a song varied considerably from other interpretations of the same song, be it in tempo, length, order of solos and so on (listen to three different takes of “Communication Breakdown” present here). This is also a great document of the creative process the band went through when preparing material for their albums – the first sessions include early versions of songs later released on the second album and the last session does the same with songs later released on the fourth album. In addition, these sessions contain several songs not included on any of the studio albums. The performances are of course stellar, from the very first note played to the very last and both the musical and historic importance of these sessions is beyond dispute. The usual BBC “mark of quality” sound is crystal clear and allows the listener to enjoy this heavenly music even at dangerously high volume (recommended). I can’t imagine anybody, who considers himself a music lover, not to own this album?
Interested in general information about BBC sessions? See my Blog ;)
| | | CD 2 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | LED ZEPPELIN ~ HOW THE WEST WAS WON
ATLANTIC 83587 ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Led Zeppelin released only 9 studio albums (one of them double) through their entire career, now collected in the magnificent Box Set called “The Complete Studio Recordings” – a mother of all Box Sets! Although there are hundreds of Led Zeppelin live bootlegs circulating on the market, there is scarcely little officially released live material. The BBC sessions album is one of them, but that is hardly a real “live” album, and of course the soundtrack to their pseudo-documentary movie "The Song Remains The Same", which was not really intended as a stand-alone live album. Therefore when Jimmy Page decided (in 2003) to release these two concerts, recorded in June of 1972 during their US tour, nothing could make me happier as a great admirer of Led Zeppelin’s artistry. Anybody listening to these recordings should be easily convinced that they were undoubtedly the greatest rock band of all times. Period. The 3 hours long set gives the listener everything there is to give. Superb performances, heartbreaking lyricism, divine sophistication and musical virtuosity – very lofty words, I know, but 100 % solid truth. They were just eight miles higher than anything else on earth at that time or after. Page is a giant and a genius, so inventive that it is truly scary. His treatment of the instrument and his ability to improvise are stellar. A 25+ minutes of “Dazed And Confused” and 23+ minutes of “While Lotta Love” are typical examples of what they sounded like at their best and how they could turn any of their songs around any way they wanted. I could really brag about this for hours, buy talking about music is like making love over the telephone, so just get this damn album and listen, and listen again. A little brain damage never hurt anybody! ;)
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 3 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JEAN-LUC PONTY ~ THE GIFT OF TIME / STORYTELLING / TCHOKOLA
BGO 1508 (Barcode: 5017261215086) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1987 - 1991 Released: 2024
This is a 2CD reissue / remaster of three albums by the great French Jazz / Fusion violinist / composer / bandleader Jean-Luc PontyFind albums by this artist. The albums were newly remastered for this release and are accompanied by an in-depth background information about the process of recording these albums.
“The Gift Of TimeFind albums with this title” from 1987 was the first album released on ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records, after a long stint with AtlanticFind albums on this label Records. It was recorded in a basic trio setting with bassist Baron BrowneFind albums by this artist and drummer Rayford GriffinFind albums by this artist. Guitarist Pat ThomiFind albums by this artist plays on several tracks. The album presents eight tracks, all original compositions by Ponty. Ponty plays violin, Synclavier and electronic devices. The music is a mixture of Fusion and Ambient.
“StorytellingFind albums with this title” from 1989 was the second album on Columbia. It was recorded in a quintet setting with Browne, Griffin, guitarist Jamie GlaserFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Wally MinkoFind albums by this artist. A few guest musicians appear on selected tracks. The album presents nine tracks, eight of which are original compositions by Ponty and one is his interpretation of a Classical piece. The music follows a similar pattern to that found on the preceding album, mixing Fusion and more contemporary Ambient an even Techno influences.
“TchokolaFind albums with this title” from 1991 was the third and last album on Columbia. It was recorded with several West African musicians and offers a Jazz-World Fusion project, which explores the rich rhythmic background of that region. The album presents ten tracks, all composed by Ponty or co-composed by him and the musicians playing on the album. The music is very different from everything Ponty created earlier on, showing his artistic diversity and constant passion to discover new musical ventures.
Overall, this is a great opportunity to discover these three album, which escaped many of Ponty’s fans, who loved his earlier Jazz and Fusion oriented albums, but stopped following his recordings by the time these albums were released. Most warmly recommended!
| | Updated: 04/04/2024Posted: 04/04/2024 | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS / JOHN COLTRANE ~ THE FINAL TOUR: THE BOOTLEG SERIES VOL.6
COLUMBIA 889854483920 (Barcode: 889854483920) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1960 Released: 2018
This is the 6th installment of the "Bootleg Series" recordings by American trumpeter / composer Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, released by ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records. It presents a document of the last tour by the legendary first Miles Davis Quintet, which included saxophonist John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, pianist Wynton KellyFind albums by this artist, bassist Paul ChambersFind albums by this artist and drummer Jimmy CobbFind albums by this artist. The live recordings, captured during the quintet´s European Tour organized by Norman GranzFind albums by this artist, who was the most important American Jazz impresario between the 1940s and 1960s and a notable record producer, include two concerts in Paris on March 21, 1960, two concerts in Stockholm on March 22, 1960 and one concert in Copenhagen on March 24, 1960. A short Miles Davis interview is also included. This is the first legitimate commercial issue of this material; numerous earlier bootlegs of the same material have been flooding the record market for years.
After spending five years with Davis, Coltrane was feeling restless and tired of the setup and during this tour he informed Davis that he will be leaving the quintet upon its return from the European Tour captured here. Coltrane´s feverish move forward was already taking him away from the music played by the quintet, which although brilliant in every way was stuck in the Bebop and Cool traditions, in favor of more Free oriented music, which was already evident on his recording as a leader on AtlanticFind albums on this label Records ("Giant StepsFind albums with this title" was recorded almost a year before the music here was captured) and later on the revolutionary albums on Impulse!Find albums on this label Records, which changed the Jazz idiom forever. Davis would change his approach to music only about four years later with the formation of the second Miles Davis Quintet, which will also have a major influence on the future of Jazz, namely by developing the Jazz-Rock Fusion.
Coltrane´s playing, as captured here, is simply Godly in every respect. It marks clearly the direction he was moving into and his lengthy explorations and often atonal squeaks and long convoluted solos are in complete contrast to Davis´ and the rest of the quintet members´ playing, which at times is a bit embarrassing in its simplicity. The audiences seem to have no problem whatsoever with Coltrane´s explorations and he is enthusiastically cheered after each solo, which is hardly surprising as Scandinavian musicians and audiences (same goes for the rest of Europe, including behind the Iron Curtain) at the time were already slowly moving forwards the next phase of the Jazz history.
The music is a mixture of Davis originals and standards and we get four versions of Davis´ classic "So What" and two versions of "All Blues", all ranging between ten and fifteen minutes in duration, as well as three versions of Bronislaw KaperFind albums by this artist´s "On Green Dolphin Street", all about fifteen minutes long and two versions of Richard CarpenterFind albums by this artist´s "Walkin´", also about fifteen minutes each. This means of course that the Davis / Coltrane connoisseurs are able to compare and analyze the differences in the soloing on each of the repeated tunes, and of course those are quite dissimilar to each other.
Undoubtedly this music is a tremendous document of its era and marks the peak of the American Jazz tradition, but at the same time it is as well a sign of an end of that era. Sadly the American Jazz tradition would get stuck more or less in that gear for the next decades, with no significant development in sight, except for Free Jazz / Improvised Music spearheaded by Coltrane and Fusion spearheaded by later Davis ensembles, which were about to peak a decade or so later and from then on would be as dormant as the traditional American Jazz.
Of course for Davis / Coltrane lovers this is absolutely essential material and a must have in their collections. Even if people already own the bootlegged releases of this material, this new remastered and beautifully packaged release and the included booklet are definitely worth the price of this set. Essential stuff!
| | Updated: 31/12/2024Posted: 20/05/2018 | CD 4 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN COLTRANE ~ THE COMPLETE 1961 VILLAGE VANGUARD RECORDINGS
IMPULSE! 232 (Barcode: 011105023221) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1961 Released: 1997
When this music was recorded in November of 1961 I was only 10 years old and yet it changed my life forever. Living in (Socialist) Poland, my access to contemporary (at the time) jazz originating in the US was pretty limited and the only beacon of light was the daily Willis ConoverFind albums by this artist’s radio jazz program on Voice Of America, beamed from across the Iron Curtain. Millions of Eastern European listeners would risk freedom (listening to VOA was a criminal act then) to gain freedom, myself included. These broadcasts changed the life of countless people and particularly in Poland would eventually be a dominant factor in the process of forming a burgeoning and extremely fruitful local jazz scene. Many hours of my early childhood were spent with myself standing on a conductor’s podium (e sledge), in front of an imaginary orchestra playing inside the enormous radio (a pre WW II antique). Since classical music was less censored and sponsored by the Establishment, it was there for us to enjoy most of it of very high quality. I remember listening for hours at end to the annual Chopin competition, which was Poland’s most prestigious music event, getting to know his music inside out before I even knew anything about him. My Mother encouraged my “conducting” aspirations warmly, supplementing them with occasional background information. But the discovery of jazz and its strange convoluting patterns and unfamiliar rhythms was a revelation. I just couldn’t get enough of it and every new artist or piece of music was an instant bliss. By the time I was about to hear John ColtraneFind albums by this artist for the first time I was already familiar with the music of Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist, Count BasieFind albums by this artist, Charlie ParkerFind albums by this artist and Dizzie GillespieFind albums by this artist (thanks to Mr. Conover). Conover, in contrast to many of his peers (who were stuck in be-bop or some earlier jazz sub-genre for the rest of their lives), was remarkably open-minded and understood the genius of Coltrane and his visionary contribution to the development of the Jazz Art form. He therefore featured every new Coltrane album as soon as it was released. So here I was, 10 years old, some time in early 1962, listening to the Village Vanguard sessions – an experience equivalent to a 10,000 Volts electricity shock. My life would definitely be never the same again. I hope these personal reminiscences don’t put you off too much, but I just couldn’t resist the temptation. Taking the time-travel express to now here are my comments about this music from a “45 years later” point of view. In 1961 Coltrane left AtlanticFind albums on this label (his second label, PrestigeFind albums on this label being the first) and signed a contract with Impulse!Find albums on this label, the new and ambitious jazz label run by producer Bob ThieleFind albums by this artist, where he would stay for the rest of his life. Coltrane was already following a path (mostly subconsciously) which would lead him to the edge of the known jazz explorations and beyond. His monumental Atlantic albums like Giant Steps and My Favorite Things were just a glimpse of things to come. Coltrane felt that Thiele would allow him to speed up the process of reaching the quest of musical enlightenment by allowing him total artistic freedom and supporting him all the way and he was of course right. The extensive volume of music recorded for Impulse! in the span of almost 7 years right up to his death would become the most important musical legacy of the 20th Century, so innovative and groundbreaking that it is still a mystery to many contemporary listeners and musicologists today. Coltrane’s first recording for Impulse! (in the spring of 1961) would be the Africa / Brass sessions, an ambitious project involving a large ensemble of the most gifted players on the scene (Freddie HubbardFind albums by this artist, Booker LittleFind albums by this artist, Eric DolphyFind albums by this artist and many others) – see The Complete Africa / Brass SessionsFind albums with this title album, another essential Coltrane release. These sessions introduce several new elements in Coltrane’s music, like Far-Eastern motifs, African rhythms and other ethnic influences. In November of 1961 Thiele decided to record Coltrane live, using the 4 nights booking at the NY club The Village Vanguard (where many jazz albums were recorded live) for this purpose. The booking was for a John Coltrane Quintet and it was only natural that the Quintet would include Eric Dolphy, whom Coltrane knew, respected and played with earlier. The legendary Quartet (with McCoy TynerFind albums by this artist, Jimmy GarrisonFind albums by this artist and Elvin JonesFind albums by this artist) was not entirely crystallized at the time, so Coltrane and Thiele decided to expand the line-up (on some takes) to include an oud player (Ahmed Abdul-MalikFind albums by this artist) and alternative bassist (Reggie WorkmanFind albums by this artist) and drummer (Roy HaynesFind albums by this artist). Since this music was recorded for a future release Thiele (as any produce would do) recorded several takes of each tune, some with an alternating line-up. This 4CDs Box Set includes all the music that was recorded during these four days (mind you not all the music that was played, as some of it was not recorded hence the “complete” being not entirely true) in the exact order it was recorded. This music was to be released later on two albums (Live At The Village Vanguard and The Other Village Vanguard Tapes) as well as parts of other albums (Impressions) and collections. Collected here together for the first time, this is a monumental piece of jazz history and an unforgettable musical experience. Coltrane’s circular breathing technique and his “wall of sound” approach are clearly evident here for the first time in their full glory. The comparison of the different versions of the same tunes are both fundamental and clairvoyant examples of the “one time experience” that every jazz performance essentially is. The power, the vision, the super-human strength of will of the Master and Prophet (please excuse the almost religious references) that Coltrane was, are here for us, his disciples, to discover, study, revere and bequest to future generations. This Box Set is something one has in one’s record collection for life. It is not only timeless, but also constantly evolving in parallel to one’s private (musical) evolution. Listening to it time after time (especially after a long period of abstention) will be revealing and constantly surprising. It is a superb example of great Art, which keeps alive for eternity, adopting itself to the changing cultural surroundings, and therefore being truly eternal. I can’t imagine anybody, who calls himself a music lover, not owning this music, as naive as this might sound, since I believe there is something in it for everybody. Beyond essential!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 4 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ LIVE IN HAMBURG 1972
JAZZ LIPS 761 (Barcode: 8436019587614) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 - 1974 Released: 2008
This is an unofficial (politically correct alias for good old bootleg) album by the great American pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, recorded live in June 14, 1972 with his trio, which also included bassist Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist. The trio performs twelve original compositions, all composed by Jarrett. Jarrett also plays saxophone, flute and percussion on some of these tracks. The album also includes four live tracks recorded a couple of years later in NY, this time with a quintet that includes trumpeter Chet BakerFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Lee KonitzFind albums by this artist, Haden on bass and drummer Beaver HarrisFind albums by this artist, all of which are standards. Also included are two solo piano pieces recorded in 1974, both original compositions / improvisations by Jarrett.
Listeners familiar with Jarrett´s discography can easily pinpoint these tracks as trio versions of the tracks recorded by the so called American Quartet, which included this trio and saxophonist Dewey RedmanFind albums by this artist. They appeared on the album "El JuicioFind albums with this title", recorded in 1971 but released only in 1975 on AtlanticFind albums on this label and on the album "ExpectationsFind albums with this title" recorded in October 1972, i.e. after this live performance, and released on ColumbiaFind albums on this label. The full genealogy of all the tracks is described in the album´s booklet.
The bonus tracks with the quintet are quite unusual, as Jarrett rarely ever played standards at that time and it is the only recording meeting between him and Baker or Konitz.
Jarrett enthusiasts should find this album fascinating at least, as it offers almost two hours of previously unavailable material from the pianist career, which, as usual, is not only excellent musically, but also reveals his performance style and mannerisms in his early period, especially in view of the fact that the American Quartet or the trio did not release any official live material.
The sound quality is a bit Lo-Fi here and there, but considering the historical importance of this music and its rarity, this can be easily forgiven. It would have been nicer to have this music officially released, but considering the revolting politics of the music industry and the nasty habit of keeping unreleased treasures hidden in the vaults, such treasures are bound to pop up sooner and later.
If you can get it (which I doubt) grab it with both hands and cherish it!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: 30/10/2016 | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | FREDDIE HUBBARD ~ THE HUB OF HUBBARD
MPS 4029759113461 (Barcode: 4029759113461) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2016
This is a reissue of an album by American trumpeter / composer Freddie HubbardFind albums by this artist, which was his first of two albums for MPSFind albums on this label and which was produced by the legendary Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist. He is supported by saxophonist Eddie DanielsFind albums by this artist, pianist Roland HannaFind albums by this artist, bassist Richard DavisFind albums by this artist and drummer Louis HayesFind albums by this artist. The album presents one original composition by Hubbard and three standards.
This album marks a transition period between Hubbard´s recordings for Blue NoteFind albums on this label and AtlanticFind albums on this label, which established him as one of the top American Bebop and Hard Bop trumpeters (and to a degree a Free Jazz pioneer), and his move to CTIFind albums on this label, which marked a slightly more commercial and Fusion oriented period. This album was recorded during an informal recording session, organized by Berendt during a break in Hubbard´s European tour and the relaxed and casual atmosphere dominates the proceedings. BTW the same session also produced another album: Richard Davis´s "Muses For Richard DavisFind albums with this title".
The music is everything one might expect from the stellar lineup, i.e. superbly played mainstream American Jazz, which unfortunately introduces nothing new to the Jazz idiom per se and by the time it was recorded was already passé to some extent. Of course Hubbard and his cohorts pay their asses off and their virtuosity is hair-raising. Combined with the first-rate recording quality and the great remaster, this album is a superb example of Hard Bop at its best, full of exciting soloing and outstanding teamwork.
Lovers of mainstream American Jazz should be perfectly happy with this release, which brings this album back into circulation (although it was already reissued on CD in 1988 and 2009, but long time gone from the market).
Side Note
The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet.
In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker.
Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace.
In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically.
Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.
| | Updated: 12/06/2018Posted: 03/12/2016 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN COLTRANE ~ THE PRESTIGE RECORDINGS
PRESTIGE 888072335936 (Barcode: 888072335936) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1956 - 1958 Released: 2011
This magnificent Box Set combines all the recordings by the greatest Jazz musician of all times, saxophonist / composer John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, recorded for the legendary PrestigeFind albums on this label label. The only Coltrane recordings missing in this set are those he recorded with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist (which are available on the "Chronicle: The Complete Prestige Recordings Of Miles DavisFind albums with this title" Box Set) and therefore this Box Set misses the "complete" element in favor of avoiding unnecessary duplication.
The vast amount of music included here, which fills 16 CDs, was recorded during 25 recording sessions, the first of which took place on May 7, 1956 and the last on December 26, 1958: a period of about two and a half years. Part of the music features Coltrane as a sideman and the rest as a leader. Forty two other players, beside Coltrane, participate in these recordings, a list of names which reads like the encyclopedia of American Jazz in the 1950s.
The Prestige era was a vital part of Coltrane´s ever changing path towards spiritual and artistic unity. His stint with Miles Davis and the sessions collected here were his rite of passage between his early years and his Big Bang, which will occur just a few years later after Coltrane switched from Prestige to AtlanticFind albums on this label and then finally to Impulse!Find albums on this label Coltrane firmly believed in paying the dues and mastering one´s skills before taking the liberty to step across the boundaries of the known musical universe. Although he does not actually cross any boundaries on these recordings, he certainly gets to develop the tools and experience, which are crucial in order to be able to do so. His playing here is simply perfect, any way one looks at it. Technically his phrasing, fluidity, timbre, harmonic progression and the complete control of the instrument (he plays only tenor saxophone on all these recordings) and the rest his musician´s arsenal are simply astounding. Emotionally his music matures and achieves a level of focus previously never encountered. It is quite obvious that without this period the revolutionary developments, which were just around the corner, would have never happened.
These sessions reveal the fact that the intensity of Coltrane´s life as a musician left little time for his talents as a composer to materialize in parallel. The entire Box Set includes only a small number of Coltrane´s original compositions; that aspect of his personality had to wait just a bit longer. However Coltrane discovered the African sources of Jazz during this time, which will become an important part of his future music, his emotional approach to Jazz and a part of his personal philosophy.
In historic perspective this music is a not only a superb synopsis of American mainstream, captured just moments before Free Jazz was about to shatter all the conventions and take it to the next existential level. This is simply the best music, made by the best musicians and therefore eternally a part of the canon of our Culture. And yes, it is also an essential listening experience, as a whole or part by part, chronologically or in reverse order, any way you wish, just please listen! Your life will never be the same again…
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 16 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SERGIO MENDES ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM SERIES
RHINO 081227975166 (Barcode: 081227975166) ~ BRAZIL ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1964 - 1968 Released: 2011
This Box Set collects the five albums by Brazilian pianist / composer Sergio MendesFind albums by this artist, released by AtlanticFind albums on this label Records between 1964 and 1968. During that same period Mendes also released albums for A&MFind albums on this label Records, mostly with a vocal group, which were much more popular and commercially successful. The Atlantic albums are more Jazz oriented and are one of the earliest examples of Jazz-World Fusion.
Mendes gained popularity as one a several Brazilian artists, who swept the American music scene in the mid 1960s, popularizing the wonderful bossa nova movement. He combined his own composition with those of dozens of great bossa nova songwriters in Brazil, popularizing them in the USA. His various group included mostly Brazilian players, such as bassist Sebastiao NetoFind albums by this artist and drummers Chico BateraFind albums by this artist and Chico De SouzaFind albums by this artist, but he was often supported by top American Jazz players like trumpeter Art FarmerFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Phil WoodsFind albums by this artist, flautist Hubert LawsFind albums by this artist and many others. Sometimes he also used extensive orchestral arrangements, which of course sounded pretty kitschy at times.
In retrospect Mendes and other Brazilian musicians / composers were responsible for opening up the American musical scene to new sonic and rhythmic vistas, which also invigorated the American Jazz scene immensely at the time. These albums include many of the classic bossa nova evergreens, and still are great fun to listen to, even if they sound somewhat outdated due to relatively simplistic production and problematic sound quality. For bossa nova fans these are absolute classics, others might like to take a trip down the nostalgia lane; whatever the reason, this music still has a lot of charm and zest. Recommended!
Side Note: The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label and the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases have been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MANHATTAN TRANSFER ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM SERIES
RHINO 081227983697 (Barcode: 081227983697) ~ USA ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 1975 - 2000 Released: 2009
This Box Set collects five (seemingly randomly selected) albums recorded by the American vocal quartet The Manhattan TransferFind albums by this artist and released on the AtlanticFind albums on this label Records label between 1975 and 2000. The group was founded in 1969 by vocalist Tim HauserFind albums by this artist, who was the quartet´s leader for many years until his death in 2014. They recorded their debut in 1971 for CapitolFind albums on this label Records, which made little impact, and their career took off after switching to Atlantic Records and releasing their second eponymous album, included here. By 1978 the quartet´s stable lineup, which lasted until Hauser´s death, was established and included Hauser, Alan PaulFind albums by this artist, Janis SiegelFind albums by this artist and Cheryl BentyneFind albums by this artist. Israeli pianist Yaron GershovskyFind albums by this artist serves as the quartet´s musical director since the late 1970s.
Although similar to the European vocal Jazz ensembles like the Les Double SixFind albums by this artist, The Swingle SingersFind albums by this artist or the Polish NOVIFind albums by this artist ensemble, which revolutionized the vocal Jazz scene in the late 1950s and 1960s, Manhattan Singers were much closer to the American vocal tradition, which includes Gospel and Soul, rather than Jazz. As a result their music was always closer to Pop than to Jazz, which is plainly evident by listening to the albums in this Box Set. Although they do use vocalese and some improvisation, their arrangements and performances are always polished and round, avoiding risks and exploration.
Nevertheless they do what they do highly professionally and always sound exactly as what is expected of them, which makes them very popular worldwide. Overall this Box Set includes very nice vocal music, which is very easy to be loved, but has almost nothing to do with Jazz per se. It is of course great fun to listen to, especially while your brain is comfortably numb…
Side Note
The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty.
The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations.
In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!
| | Updated: 05/04/2024Posted: | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOE ZAWINUL ~ THE RISE & FALL OF THE THIRD STREAM / MONEY IN THE POCKET
RHINO 71675 (Barcode: 081227167523) ~ AUSTRIA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1965 - 1967 Released: 1994
Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist arrived in the US in 1958, after being one of the first European musicians to win a scholarship to Berklee, but he left the school almost immediately and became active on the US jazz scene as pianist, arranger and composer. He played with Maynard FergusonFind albums by this artist, Slide HamptonFind albums by this artist and Dinah WashingtonFind albums by this artist before landing on the piano chair with Cannonball AdderleyFind albums by this artist’s quintet, where he stayed for 9 years (1961-1969). Towards the end of his Adderley days Zawinul played for almost 2 years (1969-1970) with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, participating in the seminal recordings Miles made at that period.
In 1970 Zawinul formed the legendary Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, which would revolutionize the jazz and fusion genres and continue (in a slightly different direction) the pioneering breakthroughs made by Davis. Over the years Zawinul recorded only three albums as a leader (on AtlanticFind albums on this label and VortexFind albums on this label), two of which are included here (The eponymous album from 1969 was really the starting point for Weather Report). Money In The PocketFind albums with this title, recorded in 1965, finds him in a setting similar to his Adderley’s quintet gig both musically and personally. He uses the quintet’s bass player (Sam JonesFind albums by this artist) and drummer (Louis HayesFind albums by this artist) and adds three excellent horn players: Blue MitchellFind albums by this artist (trumpet), Joe HendersonFind albums by this artist (tenor sax) and Pepper AdamsFind albums by this artist (baritone sax). The sextet plays a great set of bebop material, including mostly original material by Zawinul, Jones and Henderson and two standards. Zawinul’s elegant and soulful piano playing sets a firm basis for the music’s graceful flow.
The Rise & Fall Of The Third StreamFind albums with this title, recorded in 1967, is a completely different album and a most ambitious and pioneering jazz venture for the time. It involves a meeting between the American jazz tradition and the European classical tradition, but as the title suggests it was meant to be a new kind of synthesis to the one attempted earlier in the US by Gunther SchullerFind albums by this artist and named “The Third Stream”, which seemed to be forced and artificial rather than natural. A meeting between Zawinul and American classical composer William FisherFind albums by this artist led to the two of them working together in an attempt to create a natural synthesis of the two musical worlds. The project involved a jazz ensemble and a string quartet, playing music composed and arranged by Fisher. The jazz ensemble includes Zawinul on acoustic and electric piano, Jimmy OwensFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Richard DavisFind albums by this artist on bass, Roy McCurdyFind albums by this artist and Freddie WaitsFind albums by this artist on drums, Warren SmithFind albums by this artist on percussion and Fisher on tenor sax. The result is a stunning piece of music, a completely new and previously attempted kind of musical vista.
In retrospect one can of course hear the seeds of what Zawinul will be doing just a couple of years later with Davis and then Weather Report. Although sadly overlooked and rarely mentioned, this is a seminal album in every respect and surely ahead of its time in every respect. For the intelligent jazz lover, interested in the forces that forged the jazz revolution of the late 1960s this is an absolute must!
| | Updated: 09/01/2025Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN COLTRANE ~ THE HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION: THE COMPLETE ATLANTIC RECORDINGS
RHINO 71984 (Barcode: 081227198428) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1959 - 1961 Released: 1995
This magnificent Box Set compiles everything John ColtraneFind albums by this artist recorded for AtlanticFind albums on this label – his second long-term recording stint with a label following his PrestigeFind albums on this label period and preceding his final years on Impulse!Find albums on this label. The first 6 CDs include all the 10 Coltrane’s LPs released on Atlantic (Giant StepsFind albums with this title, Coltrane JazzFind albums with this title, My Favorite ThingsFind albums with this title, Bags & TraneFind albums with this title, Olé ColtraneFind albums with this title, Coltrane Plays The BluesFind albums with this title, Coltrane’s SoundFind albums with this title, The Avant-GardeFind albums with this title, The Coltrane LegacyFind albums with this title, Alternate TakesFind albums with this title), but the material is organized in chronological order (by session). The 7th CD adds over an hour of never before released material. All this music was recorded over a period of just over two years (January 1959 – May 1961), but it includes some of the most pivotal Jazz recordings ever. The Atlantic period is a superb document of transition for the Jazz Giant. Stylistically it presents the steady move from Bebop and Hard Bop to Free. Instrumentally it shows the shift from tenor saxophone to soprano saxophone. It also reveals the process of crystallization of Coltrane’s great classic quartet (see The Classic Quartet: Complete Impulse! Studio RecordingsFind albums with this title), whereas by October of 1960 three quarters of the quartet (with McCoy TynerFind albums by this artist on piano and Elvin JonesFind albums by this artist on drums) were already in place and only the bassist Jimmy GarrisonFind albums by this artist was to join soon after. Two of the sessions present here are collaborations with other co-credited Jazz Giants: “Bags & Trane” with the great vibraphonist Milt JacksonFind albums by this artist and “The Avant-Garde” with legendary trumpeter Don CherryFind albums by this artist. The music is of course divine – absolutely nothing I can say about it would ever come close to the experience of actually listening to it. This music influenced every Jazz musician and Jazz lover on earth and left a mark on contemporary music, which has no equals to this day. It also shows Coltrane as a great composer for the first time, with some of his greatest melodies like “Giant Steps” and “Naima”. His interpretation of “My Favorite Things” is of course probably the most commonly known Jazz anthem ever. This sublime music is an integral part of Art’s cannon and an everlasting evidence of human (or perhaps super-human) genius. Absolutely essential!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 7 Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES MINGUS ~ PASSIONS OF A MAN: THE COMPLETE ATLANTIC RECORDINGS 1956-1961
RHINO 72871 (Barcode: 081227287122) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1956 - 1961 Released: 1997
This superb Box Set includes the music Charles MingusFind albums by this artist, one of the most charismatic and outspoken jazz musicians, recorded between January 1956 and November 1961 – almost a six years span. It includes the 6 albums released by AtlanticFind albums on this label (Pithecanthropus ErectusFind albums with this title, The ClownFind albums with this title, Blues & RootsFind albums with this title, Oh YeahFind albums with this title, Tonight At NoonFind albums with this title and the double live album Mingus At AntibesFind albums with this title) as well as the Teddy CharlesFind albums by this artist album Word From BirdFind albums with this title on which Mingus plays bass. Some previously unreleased alternate takes are also included, as well as a long (over 70 minutes) interview with Mingus by Nesuhi ErtegunFind albums by this artist, the producer of all these sessions.
This period is considered his most productive and stable and the bulk of his best compositions are included here. He plays bass and piano and the list of names of the musicians playing with him here sounds like a “who’s who” of modern jazz, including Jackie McLeanFind albums by this artist (alto sax), Mal WaldronFind albums by this artist (piano), Dannie RichmondFind albums by this artist (drums), Booker ErvinFind albums by this artist (tenor sax), Eric DolphyFind albums by this artist (alto sax and bass clarinet), Ted CursonFind albums by this artist (trumpet), Bud PowellFind albums by this artist (piano) and many others.
This is magnificent music in every respect – Mingus at his peak as composer and bandleader, surrounded by musicians of the highest class creates beautiful collages linking blues, bebop and the emerging free form jazz. I highly recommend to read Mingus’ autobiography “Beneath The Underdog” (one of the most original and striking jazz books ever written) as a companion to this music. Absolutely essential!
| | Updated: 11/01/2024Posted: | CD 6 Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES MINGUS ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA & RCA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979795921 (Barcode: 886979795921) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1957 - 1989 Released: 2012
American bassist / composer / bandleader Charles MingusFind albums by this artist is undoubtedly one of the most iconic personalities in the entire history of the Jazz art form. Often considered as one of the top Jazz composers, comparable only to Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist, his legacy has indeed enriched our Culture by some most remarkable achievements. His flamboyant and outspoken personality, his strong and uncompromising social and political views and his extrovert behavior created a mythical status, which he enjoyed already during his lifetime and which certainly remains as part of his legacy.
His first and foremost interest was always the Jazz composition and he left a superb legacy of fascinating music, parts of which have become anthems of 20th century Culture. His favorite environments were always big ensembles (nonet / tentet) or a full Big Band, ideal for his compositions and arrangements, which were usually complex, multilayered and called for musicians with virtuosi abilities. Although Mingus never fully committed to Free Jazz, when Jazz marched in that direction in the 1960s, he was already a great innovator a decade earlier when he incorporated Classical music tools and World Music influences into his compositions and utilized collective improvisation, which was a standard in his ensembles.
The Mingus discography is quite convoluted and although most of his recordings were released over the years on the AtlanticFind albums on this label label, he recorded also for several other labels, including RCAFind albums on this label (once) and ColumbiaFind albums on this label (twice). Strangely those non-Atlantic recordings are in retrospect considered some of his most important and certainly most widely know output.
This divine Box Set includes remastered and expanded versions of his only album released on RCA in 1962 (but recorded half a decade earlier in 1957) called "Tijuana MoodsFind albums with this title", the two 1959 masterpieces "Mingus Ah UmFind albums with this title" and "Mingus DynastyFind albums with this title" with a bonus CD of alternate tracks from these two albums, the 1971 masterpiece "Let My Children Hear MusicFind albums with this title" and the 1972 live album "Charles Mingus And Friends In ConcertFind albums with this title". It also includes the 1989 tribute album called "Mingus EpitaphFind albums with this title", commemorating the 10th anniversary of his death and performed by the absolute crème de la crème of American Jazz scene at the time.
Remastered and expanded with bonus tracks, which often double the original album´s content, this is definitely one of the greatest Box Sets ever produced and an absolute must have relic for any music connoisseur on this planet. There are not enough lofty words left to explain any further, just better git it in your soul!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 10 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | AMAZING BLONDEL ~ RESTORATION
TRANSATLANTIC 301 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
A reunion album by this group from 1997, 22 years after they disbanded. Fortunately this amazing recording continues the tradition of excellence set by their original albums and there is no change or difference whatsoever. The same brilliant instrumental performances and vocal harmonies of elegance and charm. For lovers of medieval music this is truly an extatic experience.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | AMAZING BLONDEL ~ A FOREIGN FIELD THAT IS FOREVER ENGLAND
TRANSATLANTIC 330 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Amazing Blondel were probably the most unique UK Prog group in all times, dedicated to playing ancient and medieval English music performed on the original instruments of the period and sung in amazing vocal harmonies. Their work was trully breathtaking. This allbum collects live recordings from 1972-1973 captured during the group`s European performances. An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAL URBANIAK ~ BODY ENGLISH
UBX 1017 (Barcode: 5099902839325) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2014
This is a reissue of the only album by Polish Jazz violinist / composer Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist released originally on the AristaFind albums on this label label in 1976. Following Urbaniak´s departure from ColumbiaFind albums on this label after recording three albums for the label, he released just one album on the AtlanticFind albums on this label label in 1975 with a group called Funk FactoryFind albums by this artist (not bearing his name for contractual reasons) and moved on to Arista. The team that recorded the album included also his wife at the time, vocalist Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist and excellent young American players: keyboardist Harold WilliamsFind albums by this artist, guitarist Joe CaroFind albums by this artist, bassist Basil FearringtonFind albums by this artist and drummer Steve JordanFind albums by this artist and a few guests. The album presents nine original compositions, all by Urbaniak.
Musically the album continues the direction of the Columbia and Atlantic albums, offering a unique blend of Jazz-Rock Fusion, which includes strong Polish Folklore influences in its melodic motifs. The sound is much more influenced by synthesizers than on any of the previous albums and Dudziak´s voice is much less prominent, but the stylistic similarity is consistent and easily recognizable. Urbaniak´s ability to combine Funk, Groove, Fusion and World Music influences set him apart from his contemporaries and in retrospect this album still sounds refreshing and fascinating.
The most intriguing aspect of this and the earlier albums mentioned above is the fact that Urbaniak, who arrived in the US just a short while ago, is more genuinely Funky, Groovy and Swinging than any of his US contemporaries, paving the way for Jazz-World Fusion more boldly than the "natives". As such he surely deserves the credit and appreciation for his innovative spirit.
For Funk and Fusion fans, this is an absolute must, a timeless album that keeps kicking the butt as forcefully as it at the time of its release over four decades ago.
| | Updated: 13/09/2019Posted: 11/09/2019 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROBIN KENYATTA ~ GYPSY MAN
WOUNDED BIRD 1633 (Barcode: 664140163324) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2008
American saxophonist / flautist / composer Robin KenyattaFind albums by this artist first appeared on the Free Jazz scene in the mid-1960s playing as a sideman with such distinguished musicians as Bill DixonFind albums by this artist, Andrew HillFind albums by this artist and others. By the 1970s Kenyatta changed his musical direction and joined the Jazz-Rock and Funk movements, which were thriving at the time. He recorded a series of Jazz-Rock / Funk albums for the AtlanticFind albums on this label label, of which this was the first. Supported by a fantastic crew of musicians, which included drummer Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist, bassist Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist, guitarist David SpinozaFind albums by this artist and many others, Kenyatta manages to create a unique piece of music, which includes a rare combination of Funk, Jazz-Rock, World Music influences and even some free form improvisation. His flute work is featured extensively, and is the highlight of the album. This little known gem is definitely worth to be rediscovered by people who missed it at the time, as it includes loads of memorable music. Check it out!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MIKE STERN ~ UPSIDE DOWNSIDE
WOUNDED BIRD 1656 (Barcode: 664140165625) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1986 Released: 2007
American guitarist / composer Mike SternFind albums by this artist has been one of the most prominent figures in the Jazz and Fusion fields for the last three decades. His virtuoso performances and excellent writing are a source of musical joy and his consistently superb standards serve as a model, followed by generations of young guitarist around the world. Stern first came to the attention of the music lovers in the mid 1970s as the lead guitarist for the then current lineup of Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist. Later on he joined drummer Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist and played on several of his exceptional Fusion albums, finally to be featured in the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist comeback ensemble in 1981. After two years with Miles, Stern let to join Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist and again participate in some revolutionary Fusion recordings, only to rejoin Miles in 1995 for another year. That year marked Stern´s first release as a leader, with his album "NeeshFind albums with this title" scoring enthusiastic reviews, but gaining little public attention as it was released on a small obscure label. In 1986 Stern signed with AtlanticFind albums on this label, subsequently releasing 10 excellent albums on the label until he left in 2001. This album is the Mike Stern´s 1st release on Atlantic, which remains to this day as one of the greatest classic Fusion albums of all times. With the help of keyboardist Mitch FormanFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Bob BergFind albums by this artist, bassist Mark EganFind albums by this artist, drummer Dave WecklFind albums by this artist and several guest musicians (including Jaco Pastorius), Stern lies down a model for modern Fusion, with great melodies, superb guitar lead lines and rhythmic versatility. Constantly moving between atmospheric ballads and soaring neck-breaking races, there is not one dull moment on this album and it lost absolutely nothing of its initial impact. This is an absolute must for every Fusion enthusiast as well as guitar freak on earth. A must!
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  | JOACHIM KUHN ~ SPRINGFEVER
WOUNDED BIRD 1695 (Barcode: 664140169524) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2008
Virtuoso German keyboardist Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist is one of the greatest representatives of European Jazz and his illustrious career and numerous recordings are a source of inspiration for any true music lover. Strongly influenced by his older brother Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist, an exquisite clarinetist, Joachim started to play Jazz professionally in the 1960s and was one of the founding fathers of the great modern German Jazz scene. In his early days Kuhn played mostly modern Free Jazz. But by the 1970s he flirted extensively with Jazz-Rock Fusion recording a series of wonderful albums in that genre first for the legendary MPSFind albums on this label label and later for AtlanticFind albums on this label. This album finds Kuhn in a quartet setting with brilliant Belgian guitarist Philip CatherineFind albums by this artist, bassist John LeeFind albums by this artist and drummer Gerald BrownFind albums by this artist. Polish virtuoso violinist Zbigniew SeifertFind albums by this artist guest on several tracks. All the music was written by Kuhn and it is absolutely stunning, with strong Jazz and Classical influences, performed with passion and exquisite taste by all the musicians. Kuhn´s extended acoustic piano solos are breathtaking and the entire album is an absolute must to any serious Jazz-Rock Fusion fan, especially those open to the European branch of the genre. Essential stuff!
| | Updated: 18/07/2020Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | DAVE PIKE ~ THE DOORS OF PERCEPTION
WOUNDED BIRD 2007 (Barcode: 664140200722) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2007
When this little gem was finally released by the adventurous VortexFind albums on this label label (a subsidiary of AtlanticFind albums on this label), after being recorded a few years earlier, US vibraphonist Dave PikeFind albums by this artist had already moved to Europe, following the footsteps of many US Jazz players who felt stifled by the local scene, which was nonresponsive to innovation and outright hostile to forward musical ideas. In Europe Pike formed the wonderful Dave Pike SetFind albums by this artist and recorded a series of superb albums for the legendary MPSFind albums on this label label. This is the last album he recorded before leaving for Europe and it is weird in every sense as much as it is revolutionary. The use of electronic effects and studio trickery, overlaid on top of straightforward (more or less) Jazz playing was surely quite innovative at the time. He assembled a wonderful team of musicians with saxophonist Lee KonitzFind albums by this artist, saxophonist / clarinetist Eddie DanielsFind albums by this artist, pianist Don FriedmanFind albums by this artist, bassist Chuck IsraelFind albums by this artist and drummer Arnie WiseFind albums by this artist. Pike wrote all the music performed here, which is quite diverse, including (among others) early Jazz-Rock attempts, improvised moments and ballads – all quite excellent and interesting. Although quite obscure, this is a great album, highly worth investigating, which will probably surprise even the most knowledgeable Jazz freaks.
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  | MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA ~ MAHAVISHNU
WOUNDED BIRD 5190 (Barcode: 664140519022) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1984 Released: 2002
7th album by Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, recorded almost 6 years after the last album recorded by MO Mk. III (which means this was MO Mk. IV). In the years that passed between these two incarnations of MO John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist recorded several superb solo albums as well as trio albums with Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist & Paco De LuciaFind albums by this artist and of course led the ShaktiFind albums by this artist World-Fusion ensemble – a truly astonishing body of music. The reincarnation of MO served as a project to take another look at the Fusion genre and reflect the changes that the genre went through. McLaughlin selected some of the best Fusion players for his group, with veteran Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist on drums, Swedish bass player Jonas HellborgFind albums by this artist (with whom he recorded several duo and trio albums later), and two excellent representatives of the second generation of US Fusion players: Bill EvansFind albums by this artist (the other Bill Evans) on sax and Mitchell FormanFind albums by this artist on keyboards. The music on this album is very different from what the first six MO albums presented. It is much more laid-back, relaxed, serene and cerebral. McLaughlin plays with layers of electronic sounds produced by his guitar synthesizer and Forman’s keyboards, with plenty of space for Evans to solo. The rhythm section is also much looser and provides just the right setting for this music. If you are just into the Fusion pyrotechnics as displayed on the early MO albums, this one will be a disappointment, but if you are into great music, you will truly appreciate this one. The fact that AtlanticFind albums on this label never reissued this album proves how blind and deaf the Majors are and I am grateful to Terry from Wounded BirdFind albums on this label to bring this superb music back to life.
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  | ROBIN TROWER ~ THE COMPLETE ATLANTIC RECORDINGS
WOUNDED BIRD 6033 (Barcode: 664140603325) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1988 - 1990 Released: 2020
This is a 2CD reissue of the 11th and 12th solo studio albums by the legendary British Rock guitarist / songwriter Robin TrowerFind albums by this artist, released on AtlanticFind albums on this label Records in 1988 and 1990 respectively.
CD1 is the album “Take What You NeedFind albums with this title”, which was recorded in a quartet setting with vocalist Davey PattisonFind albums by this artist, bassist Dave BronzeFind albums by this artist and drummer Pete ThompsonFind albums by this artist. It presents nine tracks, all written by Trower or co-written with Bronze. This edition adds one bonus track, which is a live version of one of the original album tracks.
CD2 is the album “In The Line Of FireFind albums with this title”, which was recorded in a quintet setting with vocalist Davey Pattison, keyboardist Bobby MayoFind albums by this artist, bassist John ReaganFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony BeardFind albums by this artist. It presents eleven tracks, most written or co-written by Trower, with two originating from other sources. Two tracks feature lyrics by Keith ReidFind albums by this artist, Trower’s Procol HarumFind albums by this artist cohort.
Following his departure from the iconic Procol Harum, Trower pursues a solo career since 1973, with dozens of albums to his credit. He manages miraculously to stick to his own formula of creative Blues-Rock, which he follows in the sixth decade of his career. His guitar playing is still sharp and clear-cut and his vocals are still as powerful as always, and he does not need to reinvent himself or search for any new avenues, doing what he does best. His many fans love his music, and that’s what matters the most.
There are very few Rock personalities of his statue and legacy still standing today and every new album he releases is an unmistakable blast, on which he definitely takes, as usual, no prisoners.
Overall, these are excellent Blues-Rock albums, with beautifully melodic tunes, solid vocals and sensational guitar playing, which has but a few contenders. The reissue is a most welcomed opportunity to grab a copy of the them. Trower’s many followers need no encouragement of course and some of the self-proclaimed new guitar aces would be wise to take a listen. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 09/12/2023Posted: 20/10/2023 | CD 2 Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JEAN-LUC PONTY ~ INDIVIDUAL CHOICE
WOUNDED BIRD 8098 (Barcode: 664140809826) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1983 Released: 2006
Jean-Luc PontyFind albums by this artist’s 10th album for AtlanticFind albums on this label, which marks a radical change in his approach to music, expressed mainly in his extensive use of electronic sounds (as opposed to his earlier use of acoustic or electric violin). Using a complex array of synthesizers and other devices Ponty creates sonic vistas of great beauty and depth. Mind you the Fusion spirit is still very much there and no danger whatsoever of New Age senseless monotony – this is highly spirited music of great value. Although Ponty is by far the main performer, he does use a few supporting musicians like old buddy George DukeFind albums by this artist on mini-moog or Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist on guitar. As usual Ponty wrote all the music presented here and again he managed to come up with some formidable melodies, which lost none of their charm over the years. A must for all JLP fans and people with taste.
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  | JEAN-LUC PONTY ~ AURORA
WOUNDED BIRD 8163 (Barcode: 664140816329) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2006
The extraordinary talents of the French violinist Jean-Luc PontyFind albums by this artist stretch over a magnificent career, which started in the 1960s and continues to this very day. His impact on the role of violin in modern music (jazz & fusion) is unparalleled and his compositional skills are equally impressive. The most important aspect of his contribution to music is his ability to mix his European lyricism with American rhythmic patterns, creating a unique amalgam of contemporary sound. Since the late 1960s Ponty was active on the US scene as member of Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist’s Mothers Of InventionFind albums by this artist and then John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist’s Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, where he contributed to the creation of the definitive Jazz-Rock Fusion foundations. While still a member of Mahavishnu Orchestra (1975) Ponty formed his own group and started recording a long series of brilliant albums for the AtlanticFind albums on this label label, of which this is the 2nd. With the help of brilliant musicians like Partice RushenFind albums by this artist on keyboards and Tom FowlerFind albums by this artist on bass (ex-Zappa) Ponty managed to give birth to a perfect Fusion album, which is as relevant today as it was on the day of its creation. He wrote all the music, which includes some of the most memorable melodies the genre was blessed with. The performances are also perfect in every respect and all in all this is one of Fusion’s cornerstones and an absolute must.
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOACHIM KUHN ~ SUNSHOWER
WOUNDED BIRD 9193 (Barcode: 664140919327) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2008
Virtuoso German keyboardist Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist is one of the greatest representatives of European Jazz and his illustrious career and numerous recordings are a source of inspiration for any true music lover. Strongly influenced by his older brother Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist, an exquisite clarinetist, Joachim started to play Jazz professionally in the 1960s and was one of the founding fathers of the great modern German Jazz scene. In his early days Kuhn played mostly modern Free Jazz. But by the 1970s he flirted extensively with Jazz-Rock Fusion recording a series of wonderful albums in that genre first for the legendary MPSFind albums on this label label and later for AtlanticFind albums on this label. This album finds Kuhn in a quintet setting with two guitarists: the brilliant Dutch Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist and American Ray GomezFind albums by this artist, bassist Tony NewtonFind albums by this artist and drummer Glenn SymmondsFind albums by this artist. All the music was written by Kuhn and it is absolutely stunning, this time more Rock influenced that his previous releases, but as always, performed with passion and exquisite taste by all the musicians. Kuhn´s extended acoustic piano solos are breathtaking, as are the solos by the guitar players and the entire album is an absolute must to any serious Jazz-Rock Fusion fan, especially those open to the European branch of the genre. Essential stuff!
| | Updated: 30/01/2016Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | VARIOSPHERES ~ LIVE IN SOLOTHURN
ZBIGNIEW SEIFERT FOUNDATION 2 (Barcode: 5907222048016) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2017
This is an archival release of a live recording by the European quartet VariospheresFind albums by this artist, led by the legendary late Polish Jazz violinist Zbigniew SeifertFind albums by this artist, which also included Belgian pianist Michel HerrFind albums by this artist, Swiss bassist Hans HartmannFind albums by this artist and Polish drummer Janusz StefanskiFind albums by this artist. They perform six compositions, four of which were composed by Seifert, one by Herr and the remaining one is unidentified.
Variospheres, which existed actually in two different lineups, was Seifert vehicle for European touring and of course part of his personal development as a composer and a player. Recorded in January of 1976 this live performance was a beginning of a hyperactive period in Seifert´s life. In that year alone he recorded albums with Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist ("SpringfeverFind albums with this title" for AtlanticFind albums on this label) and Charlie MarianoFind albums by this artist ("Helen 12 TreesFind albums with this title" for MPSFind albums on this label) and his first album as a leader ("Man Of The LightFind albums with this title" for MPS) as well as his solo violin album ("Solo ViolinFind albums with this title" for EMIFind albums on this label which was released only a couple of years later). Sadly that year also brought the discovery of his illness, which took his life just three years later.
The music is typical of the modern European Jazz of that period, which was heavily involved in post-Coltrane Free improvisation and constant search of new forms of expression. The European scene, on both sides of the Iron Curtain, was buzzing with incredible productivity and discovery, and Seifert and his quartet represent the atmosphere of the period perfectly.
Although the sound quality of this recording is far from perfect, it manages to bring forward the incredible intensity of the music and the total involvement from the musicians. Seifert and Herr deliver lengthy fiery solos and the rhythm section supports the music and drives it ahead, both during the more swinging parts as well as during the freely improvised parts. Seifert´s incredible compositions are always a delight.
The importance of the fact that this music is finally seeing a release, over forty years after it was recorded, is enormous. It adds to Seifert´s relatively limited recorded legacy and sheds light on a very interesting period in European Jazz, which is always more than welcome. For the numerous Polish Jazz and Seifert´s music connoisseurs this is an obvious must, and we should all be grateful to the Zbigniew Seifert FoundationFind albums on this label, run by the incredible Aneta NorekFind albums by this artist, who is also the author of the excellent Seifert´s biography, for faithfully bringing Seifert´s legacy into the limelight!
| | Updated: 22/06/2018Posted: 03/01/2018 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
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