Record Reviews
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  | BIG BROTHER AND THE HOLDING COMPANY ~ BE A BROTHER / HOW HARD IT IS
ACADIA 8194 (Barcode: 805772819429) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2008
3rd and 4th albums by the legendary US West Coast band Big Brother And The Holding CompanyFind albums by this artist, which is sadly most famous for giving the world their lead singer – America´s most incredible female artist Janis JoplinFind albums by this artist. After recording a couple of albums with the band for the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label, Janis was persuaded to leave them and start a solo career, a move which musically turned out to be most unfortunate. Although at the early stage Big Brother, led by guitarist and the group´s main songwriter Sam AndrewFind albums by this artist, were perhaps not the most seasoned and high profile band on the spot, they fitted Janis like a glove with their raw energy and enthusiasm, providing her with the best possible vehicle for her vocal extravagancies. Faced with the prospect of their lead singer, who was absolutely irreplaceable, most bands would have called it a day, but Big Brother decided to hang on and went to record a couple of excellent albums, presented here. They expanded the lineup to a sextet, featuring three lead guitarists (Andrew, Peter AlbinFind albums by this artist and David SchallockFind albums by this artist), and armed with a set of great tunes (mostly written by Andrew) they dared to expand into new musical ventures, way beyond the early Blues-centered tunes. With traces of Psychedelic influences, harder Rock riffs and even proto-Prog moments, these two albums are amongst the finest attempts, sadly remaining almost completely ignored and forgotten for years. Having them both back in circulation is a treat and a great opportunity to get acquainted with some lost treasures of American music. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | AL DI MEOLA ~ SPLENDIDO HOTEL / ELECTRIC RENDEZVOUS
BGO 0927 (Barcode: 5017261209276) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1980 - 1982 Released: 2010
This is a reissue / remaster of the 4th and 5th studio albums by American guitarist / composer Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist: “Splendido HotelFind albums with this title” from 1980 and “Electric RendezvousFind albums with this title” from 1982, released on ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records. He is supported by his regular band at the time with keyboardist Philippe SaisseFind albums by this artist, bassist Tim LandersFind albums by this artist, drummer Robbie GonzalesFind albums by this artist and percussionist Eddie ColonFind albums by this artist. Many guest artists appear on these albums, including pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, bassist Anthony JacksonFind albums by this artist, drummer Steve GaddFind albums by this artist, guitarist Paco De LuciaFind albums by this artist, percussionist Mingo LewisFind albums by this artist and others. “Splendido Hotel”, originally a 2LP album, presents eleven tracks, seven composed by De Meola, one co-composed with Saisse, one by Saisse, one by Corea and one a pop standard. “Electric Rendezvous” presents eight tracks, five composed by Di Meola, and one each by Saisse, Hammer and Lewis.
The music is the usual splendid mixture of superb melodies, Jazz licks, Fusion Groove and Spanish / Latin / Mediterranean / Flamenco Folkloristic accents, which was De Meola’s home turf. There is plenty of brilliant guitar playing by Di Meola and excellent parts by the guest artists, and although these two albums are not surprising or innovative as far as Di Meola’s output in the first decade of his career is concerned, they withstand the test of time splendidly and still sound great today.
Overall, this is a marvelous reminder of the early days of Di Meola’s recording career, full of virtuosity, superb compositions and passionate performances by him and his cohorts, which were the leading American Fusion musicians at the time. They are a must in any serious Jazz-Rock Fusion / Jazz-World Fusion record collection.
| | Updated: 28/02/2024Posted: 28/02/2024 | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAYNARD FERGUSON ~ PRIMAL SCREAM / NEW VINTAGE / CARNIVAL
BGO 1142 (Barcode: 5017261211422) ~ CANADA ~ Jazz-Funk Fusion
Recorded: 1975 - 1978 Released: 2014
This is a reissue of three albums by Canadian Jazz trumpeter / composer / bandleader Maynard FergusonFind albums by this artist released on ColumbiaFind albums on this label during the late part of his stint with the label: "Primal ScreamFind albums with this title" (1976), "New VintageFind albums with this title" (1977) and "CarnivalFind albums with this title" (1978). These albums feature some of the best American Jazz musicians active at the time and mark Ferguson´s commercial success and popularity, well beyond the strict Jazz circles. Among the artists appearing on these albums are: keyboardists Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist and Bob JamesFind albums by this artist, drummers Steve GaddFind albums by this artist and Peter ErskineFind albums by this artist, guitarists Eric GaleFind albums by this artist and Steve KhanFind albums by this artist, saxophonists David SanbornFind albums by this artist and Joe FarrellFind albums by this artist, trumpeters Marvin StammFind albums by this artist and Jon FaddisFind albums by this artist and many others.
The music is a mixture of original compositions by Ferguson and the composer / arranger Jay ChattawayFind albums by this artist, Jazz standards, film themes, popular songs and Classical pieces, all superbly arranged and executed by the Big Band / Orchestra, with soaring solos by Ferguson the guest stars. Although definitely on the lighter side of the Jazz spectrum, mixing Jazz with Funk, Rock and even Reggae, the music was always tasteful and impeccably executed.
Ferguson´s piercing trumpet sound is still one of the most recognizable sounds in American Jazz and remains unparalleled to this very day.
Personally I have always found the music of Ferguson to be both highly entertaining and artistically relevant, offering classy performances with stand the test of time with ease. Highly recommended!
| | Updated: 19/04/2020Posted: 19/04/2020 | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAYNARD FERGUSON ~ CHAMELEON / CONQUISTADOR / HOT
BGO 1199 (Barcode: 5017261211996) ~ CANADA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974 - 1979 Released: 2015
This is a reissue of three albums by Canadian trumpeter / composer / bandleader Maynard FergusonFind albums by this artist released on ColumbiaFind albums on this label during his 1970s stint with label: "ChameleonFind albums with this title" (1974), "ConquistadorFind albums with this title" (1977) and "HotFind albums with this title" (1979). These albums feature some of the best American Jazz musicians at the time and mark Ferguson´s peak commercial success and popularity, well beyond the strict Jazz circles.
Following Ferguson´s revolutionary recordings in the UK during the late 1960s and early 1970s, called the "M. F. HornFind albums with this title" albums, which featured a superb Big Band comprised of top British Jazz musicians at the time, and which defined the Jazz-Rock Fusion Big Band sound, he returned to the US in 1973 continuing the "M. F. Horn" series and than recording the first album on this reissue set, which also continued the Jazz-Rock direction.
The other two albums included here present a more commercial approach emphasized by the phenomenal success of the "Rocky" movie theme (entitled "Gonna Fly Now"), which charted as a single not only on the US Jazz charts, but also on the US Pop charts. However, despite the more commercial approach, these albums still offer superb Jazz performances, first-rate Big Band arrangements and brilliant soloing.
The music on these albums remains completely timeless and offers some of the most exciting Big Band recordings made in the US, featuring exquisite arrangements and excellent soloing by the leader and other musicians. Ferguson´s piercing trumpet sound is still one of the most recognizable sounds in American Jazz and remains unparalleled to this very day.
Personally I have always found the music of Ferguson to be both highly entertaining and artistically relevant, offering classy performances with stand the test of time with ease. Highly recommended!
| | Updated: 17/04/2020Posted: 10/09/2019 | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAYNARD FERGUSON ~ IT`S MY TIME / HOLLYWOOD
BGO 1202 (Barcode: 5017261212023) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Funk Fusion
Recorded: 1980 - 1982 Released: 2015
This is a reissue of last two albums by Canadian Jazz trumpeter / composer / bandleader Maynard FergusonFind albums by this artist released on ColumbiaFind albums on this label during his stint with the label: "It`s My TimeFind albums with this title" (1980) and "HollywoodFind albums with this title" (1982), which altogether produced fourteen fabulous albums. These albums feature some of the best American Jazz / Fusion musicians active at the time and mark Ferguson´s commercial success and popularity, well beyond the strict Jazz circles. Among the artists appearing on these albums are: bassist Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist (who also produced "Hollywood"), drummer Leon Ndugu ChanclerFind albums by this artist, percussionist Alex AcunaFind albums by this artist, guitarist Lee RitenourFind albums by this artist, keyboardist George DukeFind albums by this artist and many others.
The music is a mixture of original compositions by Ferguson and the trombonist / composer / arranger Nick LaneFind albums by this artist and other musicians playing on these albums, Jazz standards, film themes, popular songs, all superbly arranged and executed by the Big Band / Orchestra, with soaring solos by Ferguson the guest stars. Although definitely on the lighter side of the Jazz spectrum, mixing Jazz with Funk, Rock and even Soul, the music was always tasteful and impeccably executed. Despite the cold and vilified reception by snobbish Jazz critics at the time, these albums despite their popular approach were by far more professional than most of the endless Bebop doodling American Jazz has to offer at the time.
Ferguson´s piercing trumpet sound is still one of the most recognizable sounds in American Jazz and remains unparalleled to this very day.
Personally I have always found the music of Ferguson to be both highly entertaining and artistically relevant, offering classy performances with stand the test of time with ease. Highly recommended!
| | Updated: 02/05/2020Posted: 02/05/2020 | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAYNARD FERGUSON ~ M. F. HORN 4 & 5 – LIVE AT JIMMY`S
BGO 1307 (Barcode: 5017261213075) ~ CANADA ~ Brass Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2017
This is a reissue of the album by Canadian Jazz trumpeter / composer / bandleader Maynard FergusonFind albums by this artist, recorded live at the famous NY club "Jimmy´s". Originally released as a double LP, this was the last chapter of the "M. F. HornFind albums with this title" series and marks the end of Ferguson´s British adventure, and his return to the US. The album was produced by the legendary ColumbiaFind albums on this label producer Teo MaceroFind albums by this artist, known for his work with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and producer of countless other seminal Jazz recordings.
This album includes ten expanded arrangements of popular songs, Jazz standards and original material, brilliantly performed by Ferguson and his band, which included three British players who took part in the recording of the earlier "M. F. Horn" albums: saxophonist Andy MacintoshFind albums by this artist, pianist Pete JacksonFind albums by this artist (who plays electric piano here and contributed two original compositions) and drummer Randy JonesFind albums by this artist. Saxophonists Ferdinand PovelFind albums by this artist from Netherlands and Bruce JohnstoneFind albums by this artist from New Zealand are also among the band members with the rest of the players being Americans.
This album marks almost the end of Ferguson´s love affair with the Brass Rock / Jazz-Rock Fusion, which would be finalized by the recording of "ChameleonFind albums with this title" album a year later. The rest of Ferguson´s 1970s recordings on Columbia will be more commercially oriented, but still full of great performances and excellent music.
Overall this album is a great piece of the Ferguson´s recorded legacy, which is certainly worth being remembered. It finalizes the wonderful Brass Rock / British Big Band period, which is certainly a pinnacle of his creativity, and a superb addition to the idiom, and which has a lasting value. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 18/04/2020Posted: 18/04/2020 | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GARY PUCKETT & THE UNION GAP ~ WOMAN, WOMAN / THE NEW GARY PUCKETT & THE UNION GAP ALBUM / THE GARY PUCKETT ALBUM
BGO 1374 (Barcode: 5017261213747) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1967 - 1971 Released: 2019
This is a reissue of the first and fourth albums by the American Pop / Rock group Gary Puckett & The Union GapFind albums by this artist, and the first solo album by the charismatic vocalist / guitarist / songwriter Gary PuckettFind albums by this artist, recorded after the group disbanded. These remastered albums are expanded with eight non-album singles added as bonus tracks.
The group was discovered by ColumbiaFind albums on this label producer / songwriter Jerry FullerFind albums by this artist, who wrote a chain of successful chart hits for them, which remain as some of the Popular Music evergreens to this very day. Puckett was blessed with a velvet tenor voice and a superb Pop sensitivity, which turned every song he performed into an irresistible melodic gem. In time the group wanted to sing more ambitious original material, which sadly resulted in loosing the successful charting image and led to their disbanding in 1971, after recording just four excellent albums.
Following the modest success of his debut album Puckett left the music business for a while and returned a decade later, performing occasionally to this very day.
In retrospect these albums offer the best American Pop / Rock had to offer at the late 1960s / early 1970s; based on superbly weaved melodies, great arrangements and production and of course outstanding vocal performances. This music lost absolutely nothing of its sparkling beauty over time and still is a great fun to listen to. One wishes at least some of this talent and dedication could be found in contemporary music; alas it seems to be completely lost in the tides of time. Puckett´s vocals have had very little competition over the years within the Pop / Rock idiom and are a sad reminder of the glory days.
For Classic Rock lovers, this stuff is absolutely essential!
| | Updated: 05/08/2019Posted: 05/08/2019 | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | ZAWINUL SYNDICATE ~ BLACK WATER / LOST TRIBES
BGO 1417 (Barcode: 5017261214171) ~ AUSTRIA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1989 - 1992 Released: 2020
This is a reissue of the second and third albums released on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label by The Zawinul SyndicateFind albums by this artist, the ensemble led by Austrian keyboardist / composer Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, following the cessation of the legendary Weather ReportFind albums by this artist. The ensemble continued the musical path of the late period Weather Report, mixing Jazz-Rock Fusion with World Music and Pop elements. Veteran Zawinul was supported by much younger American musicians and the lineup of the ensemble changed over time several times.
"Black WaterFind albums with this title", released in 1989, features guitarist Scott HendersonFind albums by this artist, bassist Gerald VeasleyFind albums by this artist, drummer Cornell RochesterFind albums by this artist and percussionist Munyungo JacksonFind albums by this artist, with occasional vocal parts by Lynne Fiddmont-LinseyFind albums by this artist and other vocalists. The album presents nine tracks, seven of which are original compositions by Zawinul and two are arrangements by compositions by Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist.
"Lost TribesFind albums with this title", released in 1992, features new members: guitarist Randy BernsenFind albums by this artist, drummer Mike BakerFind albums by this artist and percussionist Bobby Thomas, Jr.Find albums by this artist, with Veasley on bass but also playing keyboards alongside the leader. The album presents ten original compositions, nine by Zawinul and one by Veasley.
Following the third album Zawinul and his ensemble was dropped by Columbia and recorded a few additional albums on small independent labels until his death at the age of 75 in 2007.
These two albums perfectly reflect Zawinul´s genius as a composer and performer and his everlasting search for new forms of expression and his exploration of worldwide influences. In retrospect this music sounds significantly better than how it appeared at the time of its release, dismissed by critics and fans as way to commercial. But in truth it sounds today quite visionary, especially in comparison to what people call music today. The ensemble was a first rate live act, which I was lucky to catch several times, and managed to restore similar energies as live shows by Weather Report.
Considering that the original copies of these two albums are quite difficult to find, this remastered reissue is a true Godsend. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 11/09/2020Posted: 11/09/2020 | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS / TEQUILA SUNRISE / DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS
BGO 1424 (Barcode: 5017261214249) ~ CANADA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1971 - 1973 Released: 2020
This is a reissue of the first three solo albums by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist primarily known as the frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist. Although purist might contest that Clayton-Thomas made some recordings in Canada in 1965 and 1966, before joining BS&T, these were done with his early ensembles and were not solo albums, but were partly released in 1969 under his name, after his popularity soared due to the success of BS&T, but should not be considered as part of his solo career.
The first eponymous album was recorded in late 1971 / early 1972 and released by ColumbiaFind albums on this label later that year. It presents ten songs, only two of which were written by Clayton-Thomas. The music was superbly arranged and included string and brass section and some top Jazz and studio musicians. The material spanned Blues, Soul and Rhythm And Blues, with the usual heartfelt vocals, which are amongst the finest ever on the Rock scene.
The next album was recorded and released by the end of the same year (1972), also by Columbia. It was recorded by a much tighter ensemble of excellent instrumentalists and offers a Funky / Soul oriented feel. It presents eleven songs (one repeated twice) most of which are written by Clayton-Thomas.
The third album, which was also eponymous but is often referred also as "Harmony Junction" to avoid confusion, was recorded and released the following year (1973) by RCAFind albums on this label. It features a similar team of musicians as the second album and presents ten songs, three of which are written by Clayton-Thomas.
All three albums were excellently remastered and the third album is released here on CD for the first time. This set offers one bonus track, one side of a 1983 single.
For me Clayton-Thomas always possessed one of the most distinct and magnificent voices ever and I could never get enough of his singing, although some critics have often ridiculed him cruelly – well as usual, most critics are completely deaf anyway. For people who love Blood, Sweat & Tears this is an absolute must, others might perhaps discover a gem they have been missing in their life? Wholeheartedly recommended!
And of course five decades later David Clayton-Thomas is still recording albums and singing as magnificently as always!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 10/09/2020 | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Bonus Tracks 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 |
  | STEPHEN STILLS ~ STILLS / ILLEGAL STILLS / THOROUGHFARE GAP
BGO 748 (Barcode: 5017261207487) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1975 - 1978 Released: 2007
American singer / songwriter / guitarist and Rock icon Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist needs no introduction to any 1960s / 1970s music fan. His many landmark performances with the Buffalo SpringfieldFind albums by this artist, Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist and Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist are all milestones of Rock music and are widely known. However, his solo output in the years following the early 1970s peak of popularity is much lesser known and often sadly forgotten.
This album collects together three of his solo albums (the third, fourth and fifth studio albums) recorded in the mid to late 1970s for the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label, all of which have been out of print for ages. The cast of characters taking part in the recording reads like the who´s who of the US music scene at the time and Stills´ songwriting is as strong as ever.
Although these albums had limited commercial success, they are great examples of his abilities and remarkable talents, which surely deserve to be remembered. I haven´t listened to this music in ages and hearing it now, over 30 years later, not only brings back many memories, but also reaffirms Stills´ status as one of the most memorable American music makers of the 20th Century. Definitely worth investigating!
| | Updated: 21/01/2019Posted: | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHNNY WINTER ~ THE PROGRESSIVE BLUES EXPERIMENT
CAPITOL 66568 (Barcode: 724386656827) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2005
This is the first professional recording by the legendary US Blues-Rock guitarist Johnny WinterFind albums by this artist. Although recorded in 1967, it was released only two years later, when Winter signed with ColumbiaFind albums on this label and released his sensational debut album on that label, in attempt to "catch a ride" on his fame. Nevertheless this is a superb recording by itself and presents Winter already at the top of his powers, playing here in a trio setting with bassist Tommy ShannonFind albums by this artist and drummer Red TurnerFind albums by this artist. There are only very few guitar players as good as Winter, when it comes to playing the Blues and mixing it with Rock, so this is simply a classic of the genre and an absolute must for every Blues-Rock fan.
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | AL DI MEOLA ~ SCENARIO
CBS 5099702571821 (Barcode: 5099702571821) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1983 Released: 1983
This is the 6th studio album by American guitarist / composer Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist, recorded in 1983 and his last release on ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records. Most of the tracks were recorded by Di Meola and keyboardist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, who play all the instruments. Bassist Tony LevinFind albums by this artist and drummer Bill BrufordFind albums by this artist play on one track and drummer Phil CollinsFind albums by this artist plays on another track. The album presents nine tracks, four of which were composed by Di Meola, two by Hammer and three co-composed by them both.
Although the music on this album is not diametrically different from earlier Di Meola efforts, being a mixture of superb melodies, Jazz licks, Fusion Groove and Folkloristic accents, the sound of the album is dominated by synthesizers and early electronic devices, which was the curse of the 1980s. The presence of Hammer as the main co-contributor / composer also influenced the result, and Hammer’s passion with electronic music is omnipresent here. The resulting music sadly sounds dated today, despite the obvious talents of its creators.
As a result, this is the least successful album by Di Meola in retrospect, with his guitar playing hardly present and the World Music influences appearing only sparingly. Perhaps the pressures form the record label to produce a more commercial product were behind the scenes. Happily, Di Meola returned back on track with his following albums.
Overall, this is a reminder of the closing chapter of Di Meola’s stint with Columbia, which does not maintain the same vitality and freshness as his earlier albums, which still sound quite brilliant today. Of course for Di Meola completists, this album worthy its place in the collection, but not essential to general public.
| | Updated: 01/03/2024Posted: 01/03/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | TEN YEARS AFTER ~ 1967-1974
CHRYSALIS 5060516096084 (Barcode: 5060516096084) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1967 - 1974 Released: 2021
This Box Set collects reissues of nine (out of ten) albums recorded during the classic first period of the seminal British Blues-Rock / Rock group Ten Years AfterFind albums by this artist, led by the phenomenal guitarist / composer Alvin LeeFind albums by this artist and including also keyboardist Chick ChurchillFind albums by this artist, bassist Leo LyonsFind albums by this artist and drummer Ric LeeFind albums by this artist. It also includes a bonus CD with a previously unreleased material recorded during the 1972 sessions for the “Rock & Roll Music To The WorldFind albums with this title” album, called “The Cap Ferrat SessionsFind albums with this title”. The first eponymous album appears in its original Mono version and the rest are all Stereo versions. The nine original albums offer no bonus tracks. The first six albums were originally released on the DeramFind albums on this label label and the last three on ChrysalisFind albums on this label (in UK) and ColumbiaFind albums on this label (in US). The Box Set also includes a booklet with a plethora of photographs and memorabilia, as well as extensive liner notes by Chris WelchFind albums by this artist, which I find rater lackluster.
It is worth to mention that the first three albums (“Ten Years AfterFind albums with this title”, “UndeadFind albums with this title” and “StonedhengeFind albums with this title”) were reissued twice before on Deram, in 2002 and 2015 respectively, remastered and with bonus tracks and then as 2CD sets with even more bonus tracks. The rest of the albums also received remastered / bonus tracks reissues, which puts a serious question mark as what was the purpose of this Box Set really is? Even more puzzling is the fact that the ninth album, the 2LP “Recorded LiveFind albums with this title” from 1973 was completely omitted from this Box Set. What the heck is wrong with the people who are in charge of these projects?
But if we put aside the above reissue reflections, this is still some of the best music the British Blues-Rock and later Rock ever produced. Lee’s guitar virtuosity was never doubted and his feel for the Blues, inspired by the British Blues revivalists, found one of its greatest hosts in his soul. In time he also emerged as a great songwriter, and although his singing was never his strongest virtue, he was an inspiration and a power horse of the scene.
Many biographers speculate that the Ten Years After spectacular appearance at the 1969 Woodstock Festival was more than Lee’s fragile personality could handle, but considering the fact that he carried on doing his thing for so many years until his untimely death in 2013 proves that nothing of the sort took place.
For younger music lovers, who never heard a Ten Years After album before (I pity you!), this cheapish Box Set is a superb opportunity to get a grip on what real music is all about.
| | Updated: 22/10/2021Posted: 21/10/2021 | CD 10 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHNNY WINTER ~ AND LIVE AT THE FILLMORE EAST 10/3/70
COLLECTORS` CHOICE LIVE 6000 (Barcode: 617742600025) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2010
This album presents a previously unreleased live material by the legendary Blues-Rock genius guitarist Johnny WinterFind albums by this artist with his group, which featured Rick DerringerFind albums by this artist. Recorded shortly after the release of Winter´s third ColumbiaFind albums on this label album "AndFind albums with this title", this live concert includes a couple of numbers from the new album with the rest being drown from his two previous albums for the label. Although there is little new to be discovered here, the sheer virtuosity and raw energy displayed by Winter´s guitar playing and vocal delivery make it a good enough reason to listen to this music time after time and I´m sure that if anything else from that period will be discovered in the future, it will be sensational as well. Winter´s fans need no encouragement to grab this beauty instantly and those heretics still unfamiliar with his gospel should definitely jump on the wagon this time. They surely don´t make that kind of music these days, so get going! Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | DAVIS, MILES / EVANS, GIL ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA STUDIO RECORDINGS
COLUMBIA ~ USA ~ Jazz
This lavish 6 CD box brings us the complete output recorded by these two geniuses between 1957 and 1968. Most of the music Miles recorded was in a standard jazz setting (quartets, quintets, etc.) but with the superb arrangements by Evans he had the power of an entire jazz orchestra behind him, which complemented his virtuosity and conveyed his unearthly talents. The set includes the 4 milestone albums: Miles Ahead, Porgy and Bess, Sketches of Spain, and Quiet Nights and of course hours of additional material, beautifully remastered. This is visionary music that should leave on listener untouched. A must!
| | | CD 6 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THE COMPLETE BITCHES BREW SESSIONS
COLUMBIA ~ USA ~ Jazz
This lavish 4 CD box brings one of the most influential albums in the history of music at its fullest form. The sessions took place between November 1969 and February 1970 and the term `revolutionary` does not even begin to describe the music. Miles invented completely new musical forms as he went along, crystalizing Jazz / Rock Fusion, expanding Free Jazz and re-defining Modern Contemporary Music. This is a pure work of a genius every step of the way and this music will last for eternity. Heavenly!
| | | CD 4 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THE COMPLETE ON THE CORNER SESSIONS
COLUMBIA 06239 (Barcode: 886970623926) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 - 1975 Released: 2007
This is the 8th (and apparently the last) chapter in the ColumbiaFind albums on this label’s epic series of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist Box Sets, which is a monumental reissue project of recordings by the most important Jazz musician of the 20th century. Recorded between March 1972 and May 1975 this the music includes everything Miles recorded for Columbia before his 5 years of retirement from recording due to health problems, before resuming his career in 1980. The inventory is pretty amazing: 4 years, 16 sessions, 21 musicians and over 6 hours of groundbreaking music, which although rarely given credit for it, changed to face of music for years to come. Incorporating Funk, Fusion, World Music, Rock, Soul and of course Jazz, this music re-defined the basic conceptions of the musical universe. Anything recorded later on this planed could be traced back to some extent to these sounds, be it Hip-Hop, Rock, Electronic and Ambient Music, House, and Dance, including of course contemporary Jazz and Fusion. The music is completely groove oriented, with very little (and often without) melody, with a loose and completely atmospheric jamming over a repetitive and hypnotic rhythms, created masterly by bassist Michael HendersonFind albums by this artist, continuing the direction initiated on The Cellar Door Sessions 1970Find albums with this title. Miles on trumpet, Dave LiebmanFind albums by this artist, Carlos GarnettFind albums by this artist and Bennie MaupinFind albums by this artist on saxes, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist and Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist on keyboards, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Reggie LucasFind albums by this artist and Pete CoseyFind albums by this artist on guitars, Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and Al FosterFind albums by this artist on drums and quite a few other players contribute to this heavenly music, under the Master’s spiritual leadership. The music included here appeared in various edited forms on the albums: On The CornerFind albums with this title, Big FunFind albums with this title and Get Up With ItFind albums with this title, but most is heard here for the first time. It is almost impossible to describe how far out and pioneering this music is. It presents not only a completely new sound and approach to performing music, but also a new way to create music as a flow of the subconscious creative process. Over 30 years after it was recorded, it still sounds revolutionary and poignant, as it undoubtedly will continue to sound in the days to come. I can’t imagine anybody who calls himself a music lover not to own this music and listen to it periodically to recharge his or her emotional batteries. Beyond essential!
A special note to collectors:
The initial release of all the Miles Davis Box Sets in this reissue series is packaged in an exquisite metal-bound (except chapter 5 which is cardboard-bound) frame housed in a hard cardboard CD-sized slipcase (except for chapters 1 & 8 which have a metal slipcase). Once the initial release is sold out, the CDs are repackaged in a tall-box digipack book format. Naturally the tall-box issues have a much lower retail price tag. All the initial release CD-sized issues become priceless collectors’ items in time.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 6 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAMES TAYLOR ~ OCTOBER ROAD
COLUMBIA 074646358429 (Barcode: 074646358429) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 2001 - 2002 Released: 2002
This is the 15th studio album by legendary American singer / songwriter James TaylorFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve songs, ten of which were written by Taylor. On the album he is accompanied by some of the best American studio musicians, many associated with Jazz, like drummer Steve GaddFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Larry GoldingsFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist, guitarist John PizzarelliFind albums by this artist and others.
Since his debut released in 1968 Taylor continues to create a steady stream of refined albums, mostly based on his own songwriting, which over time accumulated to one of the most significant American Rock songbooks. His personal musical style remains pretty unaffected over time and his sincere, heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melodies are all timeless gems.
Overall, this is a beautiful collection of songs, sung with great emotion and accompanied by superb musicians, which for any Classic Rock fan is a no brainer. Once familiar with Taylor’s songwriting, one simply never gets tired of his creations!
| | Updated: 11/06/2022Posted: 11/06/2022 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BOB DYLAN ~ 1970
COLUMBIA 194398564128 (Barcode: 194398564128) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2021
This is a sensational archive album by American prophet / singer / songwriter Bob DylanFind albums by this artist, which collects three and a half hours of unreleased studio recordings from sessions that took place between March and August of 1970. These two sessions produced two Dylan’s albums released the same year: “Self PortraitFind albums with this title” and “New MorningFind albums with this title”, which are dramatically different from each other, and as we can now hear, consisted of only small part of the music that was captured during these sessions. Dylan is accompanied by wonderful musicians, like organist Al KooperFind albums by this artist, guitarist David BrombergFind albums by this artist, bassist Harvey BrooksFind albums by this artist, drummer Russell KunkelFind albums by this artist and others, but perhaps the most astonishing personal appearance on this album is that of George HarrisonFind albums by this artist, who plays guitar and sings on nine tracks during the May 1st session. The album presents a mixture of original songs by Dylan and songs by others, mostly American songwriters and one BeatlesFind albums by this artist song, as well as a bunch of folk songs. Most of the material written by others appeared on “Self Portrait”, whereas most of the original material appeared on “New Morning”.
There is no need to say much more about this music and try to be innovative, as Dylan and his music was already analyzed by so many music writers. As to the fact that his music has been archived more extensively than any other musician in history in an extensive series of the archival releases, most comprehensively on “The Bootleg SeriesFind albums with this title” (up to now in 15 volumes) and other Box Sets, has always kept me wondering how much of it is really historically necessary and revealing, and how much was just milking money in the process. History will most probably decide…
I have always been a great admirer of Dylan and he undoubtedly is one of the most influential artists in the Soundtrack of my Life, probably more as a poet, a rebel and a prophet than as a songwriter. But he did write some of the greatest songs of the 1960s, which live forever.
With Harrison on board, this album will probably rise more interest than most of the other archival material by Dylan, but nevertheless it is a wonderful time capsule, definitely worth revisiting.
| | Updated: 14/03/2021Posted: 14/03/2021 | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THAT`S WHAT HAPPENED 1982-1985: THE BOOTLEG SERIES VOL.7
COLUMBIA 194398638522 (Barcode: 194398638522) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1982 - 1985 Released: 2022
This is the 7th installment of the “Bootleg Series recordings by American trumpeter / composer / bandleader / visionary Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, released by ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records. It presents previously unreleased material by Davis, captured during the period following his return to recording and performing after a five years long hiatus (1975-1980). It follows the previous installment in the series, which was released in 2018 and offers 3 CDs of studio and live material.
CD1 presents material recorded during the “Star PeopleFind albums with this title” sessions in late 1982 and early 1983, with saxophonist Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, trombonist J.J. JohnsonFind albums by this artist, guitarist Mike SternFind albums by this artist, bass guitarist Marcus MillerFind albums by this artist, drummer Al FosterFind albums by this artist and percussionist Mino CineluFind albums by this artist. Additionally, two tracks are from the “DecoyFind albums with this title” sessions from 1983, with guitarist John ScofieldFind albums by this artist, bass guitarist Darryl JonesFind albums by this artist, drum programing by Robert Irving IIIFind albums by this artist and Cinelu.
CD2 presents material recorded during the “You`re Under ArrestFind albums with this title” sessions between January 1984 and January 1985, with saxophonist Bob BergFind albums by this artist, Scofield or John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Irving (on keyboards), Jones, Foster or Vince Wilburn, Jr.Find albums by this artist on drums and percussionist Steve ThorntonFind albums by this artist.
CD3 presents a live recording from July 7, 1983 captured at the Montreal Jazz Festival, with Scofield, Evans, Jones, Cinelu and Foster.
The music is all by Davis, except for the interpretation of a Cindy LauperFind albums by this artist song, and illustrates the transition period between the decades of recording for Columbia, with the last three albums on that label, and the explosive career of the “new” Miles Davis following his signing with Warner Bros.Find albums on this label and the release of “TutuFind albums with this title”, and the last years of his life (1986-1991).
Overall, as usual with any archival material by Miles Davis, the music is absolutely Godly, stressing again his unshaken position as the greatest Jazz musician of all time. Although the music does not reveal any surprising elements, it affirms his status, and for every Davis’ follower on this planet is absolutely essential.
| | Updated: 31/12/2024Posted: 26/10/2022 | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ MILES IN FRANCE 1963 & 1964: THE BOOTLEG SERIES VOL.8
COLUMBIA 198028016728 (Barcode: 198028016728) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1963 - 1964 Released: 2024
This is the 8th installment of the “Bootleg Series” recordings by American trumpeter / composer / bandleader / visionary Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, released by ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records. It presents mostly previously unreleased material by Davis, captured during the early days of the legendary second quintet, recorded live in France. It follows the previous installment in the series, which was released in 2022 and offers 6 CDs of live material.
CD1 to CD4 present three full concerts recorded on July 26, 27 and 28, 1963 during the Antibes Jazz Festival, a total of twenty-seven tracks, performed by Davis, saxophonist George ColemanFind albums by this artist, pianist Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, bassist Ron CarterFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist.
The material recorded on July 27, 1963 (appearing here partly on CD2 and on CD3) was previously released on the “In EuropeFind albums with this title” album, in several versions, often edited, as well as on some compilations. This is the first time the full concert can be heard in its original form.
CD5 & CD6 present two full concerts recorded on October 1, 1964 during the Paris Jazz Festival, a total of ten tracks, performed by Davis, saxophonist Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, Hancock, Carter and Williams.
The music offers a wonderful glimpse on the development of the second quintet. The concerts, separated by just over a year, and with Shorter joining the quintet, show how the music takes a quantum leap forward, as does the young Williams, who offers some truly brilliant drumming displays. Coleman, an excellent musician by all means, was simply too much rooted in the Bebop tradition, while Davis was trying to push the boundaries of the genre.
Overall, as usual with any archival material by Miles Davis, the music is absolutely Godly, stressing again his unshaken position as the greatest Jazz musician of all time. Although the music does not reveal any surprising elements, it affirms his status, and for every Davis’ follower on this planet is absolutely essential.
| | Updated: 31/12/2024Posted: 31/12/2024 | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BLOOD, SWEAT & TEARS ~ 3
COLUMBIA 30090 ~ USA ~ Brass Rock
3rd album from 1970. Although less favored by the critics, this album is as good as the self-titled previous one, with David Clayton-Thomas` soaring vocals and those incredible instrumental arrangements. As usual it contains some original material (especially the brilliant `Lucretia Mac Evil`) and some great arrangements of songs by other conteporary writers (especially `Sympathy For The Devil`). This music never dies!
| | Updated: 18/04/2020Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ THIRD
COLUMBIA 30339 (Barcode: 074643033923) ~ USA ~ Canterbury Scene
3rd album from 1970, originally a double LP, now on 1 CD. Expanded line-up including a horn section, creates what is widely accepted as one of the greatest epics of Prog and Canterbury music, with brilliant improvisations and incredibly strong writing. Almost entirely instrumental, with Wyatt`s occasional scatting and imaginative drumming. A landmark recording for both the Prog and the Jazz-Rock genres.
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | GENTLE GIANT ~ THREE FRIENDS
COLUMBIA 31649 (Barcode: 074643164924) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 1989
3rd album by seminal British Prog band Gentle GiantFind albums by this artist, which was their first attempt to create a concept album around a story about three childhood friends drifting apart in time, resulting in one of Prog´s timeless masterpieces. The group´s unique approach to writing, singing, performing and arranging their music set then apart from all the rest of Prog movement, which was at its peak at the time. Packed with incredible talent and unorthodox stylistic idiosyncrasies, Gentle Giant were giants indeed and they managed to change the face of music and influence generations of contemporary and future musicians. At the time of this recording the group consisted of all three Shulman brothers: vocalist Derek ShulmanFind albums by this artist, bassist / violinist / vocalist Ray ShulmanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist / vocalist Philip ShulmanFind albums by this artist with guitarist Gary GreenFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Kerry MinnearFind albums by this artist and drummer Malcolm MortimoreFind albums by this artist. The sextet was capable of producing a complex instrumental sound and incredible vocal pyrotechnics, based on madrigal-like choir techniques. Musically they also used unusual chord structures and strangely odd meters, crating stunning pieces of unparalleled intricacy. The result is absolutely unsurpassed by any other Prog outfit active at a time and each of their early albums, this one included, is an absolutely timeless masterpiece. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA ~ BETWEEN NOTHINGNESS & ETERNITY
COLUMBIA 32766 (Barcode: 074643276627) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 1990
3rd album and the last one by the original line-up of Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist. This live recording includes just 3 extended pieces (the longest being 21+ minutes), which of course gives ample space for the virtuosi players to expand their flashy abilities and establish the meaning of Fusion for generations to follow. Criticized at the time of its release as lacking musical direction, in retrospect this music proves yet again that it is much more lasting than any critic.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BYRDS ~ SWEETHEART OF THE RODEO (LEGACY EDITION)
COLUMBIA 35238 (Barcode: 886973523827) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2003
6th album by US most important rock group of the 1960s. After David Crosby left the Byrds almost a year earlier, the group had to be rebuild again and Gram Parsons was chosen as the new member. As the result the Byrds changed their style yet again (for the third time) from Folk / Rock through Psychedelia and now into Country / Rock, largly due to Parson`s influence. This album is often pointed out as the first definitive Country / Rock album. In any case this is a vital piece of American Rock history and this beautiful expanded edition restores the classic work in its full glory.
| | | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHNNY WINTER ~ SECOND WINTER (LEGACY EDITION)
COLUMBIA 35243 (Barcode: 886973524329) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2004
2nd album by Johnny WinterFind albums by this artist, which was originally released back in the day as a three-sided vinyl double album (side 4 was just blank) - probably the only one of its kind. This is one of the strongest and best ever electric blues recordings of all times and compares easily to many better known contemporary releases. This exquisite new edition not only adds bonus tracks but also an entire live concert at London`s Royal Albert Hall in 1970. For electric blues fans this is an absolute must and if you never heard this album before - you are in for a ride of your life!
| | | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | DAVE BRUBECK ~ TIME OUT (50TH ANNIVERSARY LEGACY EDITION)
COLUMBIA 39852 (Barcode: 886973985229) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1959 - 1964 Released: 2009
The fact that this album was destined to become probably the most famous Jazz recording, at least for non-Jazz oriented listeners (as well as one of the genre´s all time bestsellers), is one of world´s mysteries. After all, in spite of the seemingly "easy and pleasant sounding" impression this music makes on most listeners, it was in fact quite difficult and devilishly clever music, completely revolutionary and anything but "normal" by any standard. Pianist / composer Dave BrubeckFind albums by this artist and his crew: saxophonist Paul DesmondFind albums by this artist, bassist Eugene WrightFind albums by this artist and drummer Joe MorelloFind albums by this artist turned just about every Jazz rule upside down on this milestone recording, introducing odd / irregular time signatures, which were unthinkable up to that moment, classical chord structures, which previously belonged only in European Classical Music and multi-themed compositions, which were completely foreign to Bebop clear and straightforward compositions. And yet, in spite all this "strangeness" the album was an instant hit; go figure? On the other hand however, Brubeck was far from being the only revolutionary figure on the American Jazz scene, with dozens of key musicians / composers breaking down barriers of previously impregnable limitations in Jazz, from the pioneers of Free Jazz on one hand to masters of Cool on the other. The greatest test of all, the test of time, applied to this album shows unequivocally that superb music lasts forever. This music is beyond time and any esthetic limitations, it´s forever young and inspiring and perhaps today, more then ever, listening to this timeless classic can save some of us from the havoc of bullshit being offered as music these days. This beautiful edition adds to the original album some live recordings at Newport Jazz Festival, recorded between 1961 and 1964, where this quartet flies through the music gracefully. The remastered sound of the original album and the live recording is spectacular. As if this would not be enough, a DVD is added, which includes a great documentary about making of this album as well as some live footage of the quartet. What can I say? Look up all the synonyms of the word "essential" and apply to this classic, timeless masterpiece!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | 2CD+DVD 3 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ SKETCHES OF SPAIN (50TH ANNIVERSARY LEGACY EDITION)
COLUMBIA 43949 (Barcode: 886974394921) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1959 Released: 2009
It is extremely hard to believe that this masterpiece is half a century old! Hearing it today reveals therefore that trumpeter Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and arranger / conductor Gil EvansFind albums by this artist were both visionaries, in addition to their supreme musical sensitivity and revolutionary approach to music expansion. Combing Jazz with non-Western Classical music, in this case the magnificent "Concierto de Aranjuez" by Joaquin RodrigoFind albums by this artist (originally a concerto for guitar and orchestra, arranged for trumpet by Evans), was a bold step and one of the first examples of Jazz-World Fusion. Sure enough some American critics and fans hated it from day one, using the "usual" intelligent argument: "This is not Jazz". But Jazz it was, a magnificent new form of Jazz, where the lyrical composition and brilliant (and not less lyrical) interpretation by Miles just fit together like a dream. The muted trumpet played by Miles turns into a magical / mystical mythological flute, luring the listener into the music, completely intoxicated by the sound. I could go on and on about the music, but what´s the point, just grab it and listen. The original LP was extended for this special addition with a whole second CD of bonus material, including studio outtakes and the only live performance of this music with Davis and Evans. Totally essential!
| | | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ ELECTRIC GUITARIST
COLUMBIA 46110 (Barcode: 074644611021) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1979 Released: 1990
Solo album by John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. An exceptional effort summarizing not only his illustrous career in the 70`s, but in fact the entire jazz-rock fusion genre of that period. A pleiade of music stars and cohorts participate here in various ensembles (Jerry GoodmanFind albums by this artist, Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, a.m.o.), strating with a virtual Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist reunion, then moving to quartet, trio, duet and finally a McLaughlin solo guitar performance, which indicates his desire to perform as a soloist, realized later in the 80`s. Absolutely brilliant!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SANTANA ~ LOTUS
COLUMBIA 467943 (Barcode: 5099746794323) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 1999
6th album and the first official Santana live album (not counting the Santana / Buddy Miles collaboration from early 1972, which wasn’t a proper Santana album). Recorded in Japan in June of 1973 (before the 5th album - Welcome - was recorded) and released as a massive 3 LPs album (initially in Japan only), it features the new Santana Mk. II as an octet, with core members Tom Coster (keyboards), Doug Rauch (bass) and Michael Shrieve (drums), supported by several musicians added for the Japanese tour: Richard Kermode (keyboards), Leon Thomas (vocals), Armando Peraza (percussion) and Jose Areas (percussion). All these musicians (and a few distinguished guests) were to take part in the recording of Welcome soon after and the tour was an excellent opportunity to fuse, cement and rehearse the line-up. Although Carlos Santana was a transformed musician by the time this music was recorded, leaving the Latin Rock groove behind and stepping full steam ahead into Fusion and Jazz-Rock, playing live before audiences meant to perform the well known and much loved Santana material from the three legendary first albums alongside the new material. As a result, this album presents to the listener an entirely new outlook at the early Santana material, performed here with a much jazzier edge, creating Fusion per excellence. Carlos plays wonderfully, with his usual melodic feel, but improvises more, which is of course all for the better. The two keyboards players provide the band with a massive sound, with Coster soloing often in Chick Corea’s fashion. The expanded rhythm section is busy at all times driving the music forward. In short, this is everything a Fusion fan might wish to find in an album – over two solid hours of musical bliss, with great tunes and excellent musicianship. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ WEATHER REPORT
COLUMBIA 468212 (Barcode: 5099746821227) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 1991
1st album by Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, the greatest Fusion band ever, and a pivotal recording, which would change the face of music for generations to come. The core members of Weather Report were Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist (keyboards) and Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist (saxophones), two prominent members of the 1960s Miles DavisFind albums by this artist ensembles, and a young Czech bass player Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist (who played with Davis for a brief period of time only). Vitous arrived in the US in 1966 on a Berklee scholarship (like Zawinul almost a decade earlier) but soon after left the school to explore the soaring jazz scene in NY, where he played with Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, Herbie MannFind albums by this artist, Stan GetzFind albums by this artist and many others. After meeting Zawinul and Shorter the decision was made to start a new group, which would continue the direction set by Davis on his historic In A Silent WayFind albums with this title / Bitches BrewFind albums with this title sessions, based on a collaborative / group improvisation (Davis was moving in the meantime into a more funk oriented period). To complete the group they drafted another ex-Davis musician, the Brazilian percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist and a young drummer Alphonse MouzonFind albums by this artist. The debut album, recorded soon after the band was formed, reveals with full force the extraordinary rapport the members of the group established immediately, transcending their individual personalities. The music is mostly atmospheric, free form and with subtle melody lines, mostly concealed beneath the improvisations. Thus began a journey, which lasted for over 15 years, which would place Weather Report on the forefront on contemporary music and create a model followed by countless jazz and fusion musicians all over the world to this very day. Although the group would undergo multiple personnel changes and stylistic swings, their innovative, groundbreaking and often prophetic leadership would remain unchallenged. In retrospect it’s interesting to see that something, which is considered a core of American culture, was in fact created by a group in which American born musicians were in fact a minority, with Zawinul and Vitous coming from Europe and Moreira from Brazil. It can be also considered as foretelling, since future Weather Report would be one of the first bands to include World Music elements into fusion. This is monumental stuff, absolutely essential listening and a historical document of great importance.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHNNY WINTER ~ AND LIVE
COLUMBIA 469028 (Barcode: 5099746902827) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 1997
4th album and a natural follow up to its predecessor, the studio album with Winter’s group And. Recorded during two concerts (Fillmore East in NY and Pirate’s World in Florida) this is one of rock’s greatest live albums with levels of energy and superb performances rarely captured on record. Winter and Derringer exchange guitar licks and vocals and the rhythm section drives the show like there’s no tomorrow. Just listen to their version of Jumpin’ Jack Flash, which makes the Stones sound like kindergarten kids, to understand the level of musicianship involved. Some other Rock And Roll classics get a similar treatment and of course a fair share of great blues numbers are included. This electrifying concert is a classic example of what rock sounded like at its peak and sounds every bit as good today as it did then. I hope the entire concerts get a release sometime in the future, but in the meantime this is not to be missed. Warmly recommended!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BLOOD, SWEAT & TEARS ~ LIVE & IMPROVISED
COLUMBIA 472212 ~ USA ~ Brass Rock
Blood, Sweat & Tears never recorded a live album while at their prime, so the release of these 1975 recordings from the group`s reunion concerts is really a most welcome addition to their heritage. By that time the only `original` members were David Clayton-Thomas (vocals) and Bobby Colomby (drums), but this lineup is very strong, featuring excellent jazz oriented musicians in the brass section and 3 outstanding guitar players: Steve Kahn, George Wadenius & Mike Stern. The arrangements are more fusion oriented then the early group`s output and these are absolutely delightful moments captured for eternity - what a thrill!
| | Updated: 18/04/2020Posted: | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHNNY WINTER ~ STILL ALIVE AND WELL
COLUMBIA 472767 (Barcode: 5099747276729) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 1997
5th album, recorded almost two years after his last live album with And. The grueling and exhausting touring schedule resulted (same as with so many of his peers) in drug related problems, which would haunt Winter for many years to come. On this album, his most successful commercially, Winter returns to the basic trio format, but gets help from a host of guest appearances by such distinguished musicians as Rick Derringer on guitar, jazz flautists Jeremy Steig and Todd Rundgren on Mellotron. The material is the usual mixture of rock and blues masterfully executed and perfect in every respect. There are just no dull moments here and many Winter’s fans regard this album as his strongest, although many others prefer his later, more blues oriented releases. A perfectly well preserved glimpse of the era, most warmly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHNNY WINTER ~ AND
COLUMBIA 472769 (Barcode: 5099747276927) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2001
3rd album, which was recorded by a new band Johnny WinterFind albums by this artist formed with ex-McCoysFind albums by this artist members, including the guitarist / singer / songwriter Rick DerringerFind albums by this artist, who was to be Winter’s associate for many years. The new quartet had a rockier sound, based on guitar and vocal duets. Still strongly rooted in the blues legacy, this is one of the strongest examples of early Southern Rock (see Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist). Derringer contributes some notable songs, which are rockier than the traditional Winter material and the bland of tunes works perfectly. Winter’s guitar pyrotechnics are of course the highlight time after time, but the entire album is just a superb trip down the memory lane, when everything just sounded right. Edgar WinterFind albums by this artist, Johnny’s brother and future band member helped with the excellent production. Just listen to the track “Nothing Left”, where Winter plays in similar fashion to Jimmy HendrixFind albums by this artist, in order to appreciate his guitar playing skills. As excellent as this album is, it was to be overshadowed by the bands live performances of some of these songs captured on the next album.
| | Updated: 18/01/2016Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ SEVEN
COLUMBIA 473004 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
7th album (recorded 1973) and the last of the strongly improvisational jazzy oriented albums by SM, which would turn into a fusion band in the next few releases. Ratledge, Marshall, Babbington and Jenkins take a different approach this time and produce 12 much shorter pieces, rather than just a few very long ones, which of course is a lot of fun, as the album keeps changing melodies and tempos quite rapidly. Sadly under-appreciated, this is (in retrospect) a superb piece of music.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SANTANA ~ BARBOLETTA
COLUMBIA 474685 (Barcode: 5099747468520) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 1995
7th album, featuring the SantanaFind albums by this artist Mk. II lineup with some distinguished guests like Brazilian percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist and his wife the singer Flora PurimFind albums by this artist, and bass player Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist. The great bass player Doug RauchFind albums by this artist, who was responsible for the band’s pulsating rhythms, departed to be replaced by original Santana member David BrownFind albums by this artist. The album has a strong Brazilian feel mainly due to the presence of Airto and Flora and their version of Dorival CaymmiFind albums by this artist’s “Promise Of A Fisherman” is truly wonderful. Santana plays with confidence and his usual flair with Tom CosterFind albums by this artist’s keyboards filling in and him soloing occasionally, mostly on electric piano. This is a great Fusion album, which stands the test of time beautifully. Unfortunately this was the last of the “great” Santana albums. When Santana’s album sales started to show lower then usual figures, ColumbiaFind albums on this label executives pressured Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist to return to a more commercial output, and he eventually caved in. The remainder of the band’s output, although always full of brilliant moments, was to be haunted of sales potential (rather than musical) considerations. Carlos remains of course one of the greatest guitar players ever and his recorded legacy up to this album is an everlasting testimony to the greatness of the era.
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  | MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA ~ INNER WORLDS
COLUMBIA 476905 ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975
6th album by Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist. By the time this one was recorded MO were in fact Mk III, a violin-less (for the first time) quartet. This means that John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist`s guitar is more prominent then ever, sharing solos with the new keyboards player Stu GoldbergFind albums by this artist. No other instrumental additions (strings, brass) are added here, bringing the clean fusion sound of the group to the max. Some great tunes and exceptional playing make this album as strong again as the first two releases. This was also the last MO album in the 70`s, with one more album to be released in the 80`s.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHICKEN SHACK ~ 40 BLUE FINGERS, FRESHLY PACKED AND READY TO SERVE
COLUMBIA 477357 ~ UK ~ Blues
1st album from 1968 by this fantastic UK blues outfit, who together with Fleetwood Mac were the forefront of the British Blues Revival in the late 60`s. Led by Stan Webb, a virtuoso blues guitarist, and featuring the talents of Christine Perfect (who was to defect and join Fleetwood Mac after marrying one of their members) they played some of the tastiest and most well developed white blues material ever. A classic.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CARLOS SANTANA / BUDDY MILES ~ LIVE!
COLUMBIA 478089 (Barcode: 5099747808920) ~ USA ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 1995
By the end of 1971 the "Woodstock Era" version of the group SantanaFind albums by this artist, led by guitarist Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist, was over and the leader decided to search for a new path for his artistic experimentations, which would bring him much closer to Jazz, Fusion and improvisation in general. After recording three brilliant albums, which defined Latin Rock as a genre, Carlos was looking for new musicians to form the second incarnation of Santana, which would be quite different, as we know in retrospect. In the interim period, which lasted just a few short months, Santana joined forces with drummer Buddy MilesFind albums by this artist (ex-Electric FlagFind albums by this artist, ex-Jimmy HendrixFind albums by this artist) creating a band, which played several live concerts, one of which was recorded for posterity and released as this album. The musicians comprise of several members of Santana, including the young guitarist Neal SchonFind albums by this artist, en extended percussion section with the best Latin players and a brass section. The resulting music, although hectic at times, is a great example of greatly talented musicians in process of searching new ways to mix Rock with the improvisational elements. The expanded improvised piece (almost 25 minutes long, which was side B of the original LP) is the most important and obviously the most advanced achievement of this meeting, sounding absolutely nothing like anything else at the time. In retrospect this stuff still sounds fascinating forty years later. A must to all Santana fans and wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES MINGUS ~ MINGUS AH UM (50TH ANNIVERSARY LEGACY EDITION)
COLUMBIA 48010 (Barcode: 886974801023) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1959 Released: 2009
Of all American Jazz Masters, the figure of bassist / bandleader / composer Charles MingusFind albums by this artist is surely the most enigmatic, misunderstood and misinterpreted up to this day. Very few people truly understand his revolutionary approach to music in general and Jazz in particular, his ability to free himself and his closely knit circle of musicians from generations of both musical and racial prejudice, both of which can be tragically blind and bitter. Mingus was a musical universe by himself – although associated with Jazz, his music encompassed many forms of music: Blues, Gospel, African Music, all genres of Jazz from Dixieland to Free and in later days even Rock and Fusion. In order to truly comprehend his music one must study and repeatedly listen to his enormous recorded legacy as well as read his words, bequeathed to us in his writings. This beautiful album takes as a step further towards the goal to discover or re-discover the man and his music, as it includes for the first time the complete ColumbiaFind albums on this label recording sessions from 1959, with producer Teo MaceroFind albums by this artist, which resulted in two albums: "Mingus Ah UmFind albums with this title" and "Mingus DynastyFind albums with this title". Both albums are included with many outtakes and alternate tracks, all beautifully remastered and sounding superbly clear and vivid. Rather than repeat myself saying how essential and superb this music is, let me just say that some of the most memorable and everlasting music written by Mingus is present here. Essential you say? I agree!
| | | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | IT`S A BEAUTIFUL DAY ~ AT CARNEGIE HALL
COLUMBIA 480970 (Barcode: 5099748097026) ~ USA ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 1995
4th album by the short-lived legendary San Francisco band It`s A Beautiful DayFind albums by this artist. Recorded at the NYC most prestigious venue the band was at its peak at the time supporting their 3rd studio album ("Choice Quality Stuff / AnytimeFind albums with this title"). Leader and violin player David LaFlammeFind albums by this artist plays some amazing improvisations supported by a group of excellent musicians, including future Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist bassist Tom FowlerFind albums by this artist. The material includes only one track from the third album and a few of earlier hits (including the legendary “White Bird”). The rest of the material is new and this is the only album it was ever released on. The group made a formidable transition from their early Psychedelic days into a full-blown Prog band by the time this music was recorded, with strong jazzy and world music influences. Shortly after this recording the group started to disintegrate and the leader left to start a solo career. This is an excellent document of this fruitful era and one of the best live albums ever recorded. Essential item in any serious collection of 1970s music.
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHNNY WINTER ~ THE WOODSTOCK EXPERIENCE (LIMITED EDITION)
COLUMBIA 48244 (Barcode: 886974824428) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2009
The 40th Anniversary of the Woodstock Festival prompted a surge of releases, which revisit this historic event. This album by singer / guitarist Johnny WinterFind albums by this artist is one of a series of releases on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label, which combine original albums released by the label´s artists with their Woodstock appearances. This album is especially exciting, since the Johnny Winter´s Woodstock appearance was never previously released in full. It was worth waiting for of course, as his brilliant guitar playing at the time had absolutely no competitors in the Blues-Rock scene and this is divine music from start to finish. The Woodstock appearance is combined here with the Johnny Winter eponymous debut album on Columbia, another piece of classic and essential Blues-Rock history. Beautifully packaged as LP replica mini-sleeves in a carton box, which also includes a Woodstock poster, this is a true collector´s item! Highly recommended!
| | | CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | AZIZA MUSTAFA ZADEH ~ SEVENTH TRUTH
COLUMBIA 484238 ~ AZERBAIJAN ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996
4th album by the wonderful pianist / singer from Baku / Azerbaijan. Aziza Mustafa ZadehFind albums by this artist returns to a more intimate setting on this one - accompanied only by the Indian percussion player Ramesh ShotamFind albums by this artist - she spinns and twists her intricate eastern-influenced melodies playing her heart out. The performances are full of passion and fire, as well as mystical sadness and melancholy. The cover picture created a lot of stirr, especially in her native country. A treasure!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | TREES ~ ON THE SHORE
COLUMBIA 484435 ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock
2nd album from 1970 and very similar to the debut album from the same year. Folkish Prog with Psychedelic delight added in good measure make this album a gem of the genre. The 2 albums are unseparable really - if you like one you`ll need to get the other. Good that this great music is available again.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SANTANA ~ LIVE AT THE FILLMORE 1968
COLUMBIA 485106 ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Released almost 20 years after this music was recorded, this splendid album captures Santana blowing away the audiences at the legendary Fillmore West in San Francisco. This music was captured before the debut album was released and it shows how `together` the band was in every respect and deeply rooted they were in the art of improvasation (best witnessed on the 30+ minutes jam called `Freeway`). Great sound quality and electrifying playing make this an excellent piece of music.
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JANIS JOPLIN / BIG BROTHER AND THE HOLDING COMPANY ~ LIVE AT THE WINTERLAND `68
COLUMBIA 485150 ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Although in retrospect Janis JoplinFind albums by this artist is recognized now as the greatest American rock singer of the 1960’s, her tragically short recording career left a legacy so limited, that every scrap of new material is simply indispensable. Therefore it is a great pity that this incredible concert recording from April 1968 had to wait for 30 years to be heard (the album was released in 1998). The recording was made just after Janis and her band Big Brother And The Holding CompanyFind albums by this artist secured their recording deal with ColumbiaFind albums on this label, but before the legendary “Cheap ThrillsFind albums with this title” album was released. They perform with zest and confidence typical of bands on the verge of stardom, with Janis tearing the room with her shrills and groans that only she was capable of. Firmly based on the blues tradition, the band’s material is spiced with a psychedelic flavor of the San Francisco variety, most of it soon be recorded for the “Cheap Thrills” album. Strangely enough just a few months later Janis decided to leave Big Brother and start her solo career, a move as illogical and uncalculated as all the rest of her decisions in her troublesome and tragic life. She would never again have such a sympathetic and “natural“ group of musicians supporting her and bringing out the best of her abilities. This album is not only a rare and wonderful document of Joplin’s immense talent, but also a document of an era – recorded in the peak of the intense, but short lived San Francisco music explosion. As perfect as it is I keep daydreaming to have this one on DVD – that would really be the ultimate thrill.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ LIVE IN TOKYO
COLUMBIA 489208 (Barcode: 5099748920829) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2001
Following the release of their eponymous album in 1971 and in spite of the hype and show-biz brouhaha created by ColumbiaFind albums on this label at the time, which presented Weather ReportFind albums by this artist as the first ever jazz super group (a term already used in reference to rock acts), the band found it difficult to secure any US venues to perform live. Europe and Japan of course couldn’t get enough of them and WR spent most of 1971 performing there in front of ecstatic audiences. In November of 1971 WR entered the NYC CBS studios to record material for their second album. These sessions were interrupted by another Japanese tour, during which this legendary album was recorded on January 13, 1972. The music was released as a double LP immediately, but due to the usual corporate bullshit the release was intended for the Japanese market only, and it stayed this way for almost thirty years (it was released finally on CD in Europe in 2001), making the album unobtainable to most WR fans outside Japan. Well, not entirely, as heavily edited excerpts of this recording found their way to the B side of the 2nd official WR album I Sing The Body ElectricFind albums with this title, which included the a.m. November studio recordings as side A – all this probably due to the fact that Columbia was anxious to have the next WR album out ASAP and didn’t want to wait for the more studio recordings. So much for the background and now for the music. As usual with WR, the personnel changes started already at this early stage and in the cause of the very few months since the recording of the debut album the original WR drummer Alphonse MouzonFind albums by this artist was replaced by Eric GravattFind albums by this artist and original percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist was replaced by another Brazilian Master Don Um RomaoFind albums by this artist. More importantly however, the music of the band changed also quite dramatically. The debut album was an all-acoustic affair and here we have Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist using electric piano, modulators and other electronic devices, which eventually would dominate the WR sound. The overall sound is now almost identical to the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist´ In A Silent WayFind albums with this title / Bitches BrewFind albums with this title sessions, with the intensity equal to the legendary Miles’ Fillmore concerts. The music is presented in a form of four extended medleys (the longest of which lasts for over 26 minutes), mixing expanded versions of compositions present on the debut album with those recorded during the a.m. November sessions and yet others that appear only here. The group improvisations and the telepathic interplay are fearfully intense. Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist bravely provides the steady pulsation, which cements the basis on which his companions embark into their sonic ventures. Gravatt is all over the rhythmic patterns and Romao brilliantly fills the spaces. WR strength was always in their live performances, since their studio efforts somehow lacked much of the spontaneity, drive, inspiration and vigor present on stage. This recording, in addition to its heavenly contents, has also a tremendous historic value, as it is the only one in existence documenting the early (and to many the most interesting) stage of the band. It also provides the wonderful introspective peek at the most interesting (regardless of genre) period in the history of 20th Century music, during the convoluted period where all boundaries seemed to be irrelevant and the unexpected was expected. There would be very few moments in the years that followed that either WR or any other band for that matter would reach the same level of creative genius or performance intensity. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 2 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SANTANA ~ SANTANA
COLUMBIA 489542 ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
1st album from 1969 by this sensational group led by guitarist Carlos Santana. Their elecrifying set at the Woodstock Festival (which is included here as bonus tracks) brought them fame even before the debut album was released later in the year. The unique combination of latin rhythms, rock and jazzy improvisations made Santana one of the best and most successful groups in the 70`s and the music stands the test of time formidably.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SANTANA ~ ABRAXAS
COLUMBIA 489543 ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
2nd album from 1970. Continuing the style and direction set by the revolutionary debut album, this is another masterpiece of the genre. The group expands their approach and includes material by other rock icons, especially Peter Green`s Black Magic Women, which will become their anthem for years to come. The bonus tracks include material recorded during their 1st visit to the UK at the Royal Albert Hall.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SANTANA ~ SANTANA (III)
COLUMBIA 489544 ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
3rd album from 1971 and the last album by the original `Woodstock` line-up. After scoring immediate success and immense popularity with their first 2 albums, the group (and maily Carlos) decide to move into more challenging and jazz oriented material, placing them firmly in the early Fusion genre. This direction will be expanded even more on the next albums.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SHAKTI ~ NATURAL ELEMENTS
COLUMBIA 489773 ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
3rd and last album from 1977 by the 1970`s version of Shakti (to be re-incarnated in 1999), which featured the amazing talents of John McLaughlin on guitar and some of the best Indian musicians playing traditional acoustic instruments. A Fusion of jazz and indian music, this incredibly beautiful and moving music is undoubtedly one of the most original and elevating examples of cross-cultre possibilities. This is a milestone album, as are both previous Shakti albums.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ PROCESSION
COLUMBIA 489775 (Barcode: 5099748977526) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1983 Released: 1991
This is the 12th album by the legendary band Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, which single handedly redefined the meaning of Fusion and led genre for two decades. It is also the first album by the last Weather Report lineup, which included the two leaders: keyboardist / composer Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist and saxophonist / composer Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist with bassist Victor BaileyFind albums by this artist, drummer Omar HakimFind albums by this artist and percussionist Jose RossyFind albums by this artist. The music, mostly composed (as usual) by Zawinul, is a wonderful mixture of Jazz, Fusion, Funk and World Music influences. Although received coldly at the time, in retrospect it´s as good as anything else the group recorded, different of course from what they did previously, but that was the point after all. A must!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MIKE BLOOMFIELD ~ LIVE AT THE OLD WALDORF
COLUMBIA 491575 (Barcode: 5099749157521) ~ USA ~ Blues
Recorded: 1976 - 1977 Released: 1998
Mike BloomfieldFind albums by this artist was America`s best ever white blues player and his recorded legacy never really expressed fully his extraordinary qualities as a player. This album recorded live is as close to the naked truth as it gets - Mike doing just what he knows best - playing blues straight from his heart. Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ FOURTH / FIFTH
COLUMBIA 493341 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
4th & 5th albums (recorded 1971 & 1972) by this legendary band, which shaped the future of music by transforming from a psychedelic pop to Jazz Rock Fusion and Free Jazz in a matter of just a few short years. Fourth was the last album to feature the founding drummer Robert Wyatt, who was replaced by Phil Howard (a free jazz player) on the next album. The music is vibrant and exciting, flowing freely between composed themes and almost free improvisations, with all band members contributing extended brilliant solos. The emphasis is however on `group improvisation`, which makes the entire band to play in a thelepatic unison, similar to the atmosphere of Miles Davis group on `Bitches Brew`. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROBERT WYATT ~ THE END OF AN EAR
COLUMBIA 493342 (Barcode: 5099749334229) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1970 Released: 1998
1st album by drummer / keyboardist / singer / composer and one of the Canterbury movement founding figures, Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, recorded while he was still a member of Soft MachineFind albums by this artist. Sadly often overlooked, this revolutionary recording shows Wyatt´s visionary approach to music and his deep involvement with the UK Avant-Garde Jazz scene, which was approaching a peak of its development at the time. Overall this album is more radically Jazz oriented than the music created by Soft Machine at the time, which was still related to Rock roots and essentially an extension of the early Jazz-Rock Fusion efforts. The only Soft Machine member appearing on this album is saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, who shared Wyatt´s passion for Jazz. The rest of the players are prominent UK Jazz musicians like bassist Neville WhiteheadFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Mark CharigFind albums by this artist, pianist Mark ElidgeFind albums by this artist and Canterbury legend Dave SinclairFind albums by this artist on organ. Wyatt composed all the music except one tune, which is a Gil EvansFind albums by this artist composition heavily arranged by Wyatt. Wyatt´s drumming on this album is spectacular, completely unique in his rhythmic approach and closely related in the form of collective improvisation to the expressions of his partners. One can only imagine how Wyatt´s involvement with the British Avant-Garde Jazz scene would have developed, if not for the tragic accident, which cut short his drumming career. Therefore this album becomes even more historically important, presenting that aspect of the man´s genius. For listeners acquainted with Wyatt´s later years, this album should be quite a revelation, although probably a much tougher musical challenge. In retrospect this album remains as essential document of an era, when breaking musical barriers was completely acceptable and music was making giant steps towards a new horizon. This is a visionary work in every respect, which should be cherished and returned to periodically, to be re-discovered. A must for any serious music lover!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SHAKTI ~ A HANDFUL OF BEAUTY
COLUMBIA 494448 ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
2nd album from 1976. This time Shakti recorded their music in a studio, which of course created a different atmosphere. The group concentrates more on complex and delicate interplays rather then firey exchanges, compositions in place of extended improvisations. Neverthless it is another monster album of incredible beauty, full of sophistication and intellectual challenges. An unconditional must have for a true music lover.
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  | IT`S A BEAUTIFUL DAY ~ IT`S A BEAUTIFUL DAY / MARRYING MAIDEN
COLUMBIA 494893 (Barcode: 5099749489325) ~ USA ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 1999
1st & 2nd albums by the great San Francisco based group It`s A Beautiful DayFind albums by this artist, led by violinist David LaFlammeFind albums by this artist. Part of the thriving bay area Psychedelic scene of the late 1960s, the group played an important role along its conteporaries to establish the so called acid Rock sound. The hounting debut album includes the immensly successful single "White Bird", which is an anthem of the era to this very day. The second album is much different than the debut, pastoral and lyrical in nature but nevertheless stunningly beautiful. Both albums are classics of the era.
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ SIX
COLUMBIA 494981 ~ USA ~ Canterbury Scene
6th album from 1973, originally a double LP now on 1 CD. After Wyatt left SM, the group turned ever more into a Jazz-Rock and even Avant-Garde jazz group, retaining Mike Ratledge on keyboards as the only original member and with emphasis on front reedman Elton Dean and later Karl Jenkins. Six includes one studio and one live album of blistering Jazz-Rock Fusion, beautiflly played, with John Marshall on drums.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BLOOD, SWEAT & TEARS ~ BLOOD, SWEAT & TEARS
COLUMBIA 499822 ~ USA ~ Brass Rock
2nd album from 1968 by this US group, recorded after Al Kooper left. Although much criticised for its commercial approach, in fact this is a superb album in every respect. All performances are perfect, tunes are beautiful and arrangements brilliant. There are very few albums that can match this one in its musical contents up to this day. Another true classic.
| | Updated: 18/04/2020Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | BLOOD, SWEAT & TEARS ~ CHILD IS FATHER TO THE MAN
COLUMBIA 499823 (Barcode: 5099749982321) ~ USA ~ Brass Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2000
1st album from 1968 by this magnificent US group led by Al Kooper. A mixture of blues, psychedelia, rock and jazz, all beautifuly arranged and played, and of course some heartbreaking tunes - all together probably one of the most perfect albums of all times. The term `classic` is somewhat not strong enough for this. This album is the building foundation for an entire generation of music to follow.
| | Updated: 18/04/2020Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BLUE ÖYSTER CULT ~ BLUE ÖYSTER CULT (MILLENIUM EDITION)
COLUMBIA 505483 (Barcode: 5099750548325) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2001
1st album by this US group. Although associated mostly with the heavier side of rock, Blue Öyster CultFind albums by this artist`s debut album was in fact an ear-opener to a new dimension in songwriting. The cryptic lyrics and unusual rhythm patterns keep the listener on his toes. The music sounds like a mixture of Jefferson AirplaneFind albums by this artist and SpiritFind albums by this artist, but always full of surprises. In fact this is as far from the monotonious heavy metal riffs as can be and sounds quite fresh even today.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | KANSAS ~ POINT OF KNOWN RETURN (EXPANDED EDITION)
COLUMBIA 506032 (Barcode: 5099750603222) ~ USA ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2002
5th album. Veteran US Prog band KansasFind albums by this artist are probably the best example of a synthesis between the UK based Prog and American roots of melodic, country influenced Rock. Considered by many as ther definitive album, it includes the monster hit `Dust In The Wind`, which must be one of the nicest songs ever written? The healthy ballance Kansas managed to maintain between the Prog and the melodic Rock elements make them true heroes of the genre.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | TREES ~ THE GARDEN OF JANE DELAWNEY
COLUMBIA 506064 (Barcode: 5099750606421) ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 1995
1st album by the little known UK Folk-Rock group TreesFind albums by this artist, which recorded just 2 gem albums. Similar to other groups that played in the same genre, but also different, as they use extensively a heavy Psychedelic influence, especially in the brilliant work of the guitarist. Female vocals and folkish tunes, excellent playing and beautiful singing - what else can one expect?
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ LIVE AND UNRELEASED
COLUMBIA 508058 ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 - 1983
Recent (2002) compilation of never previously released live recordings by Weather ReportFind albums by this artist from the years 1975-1983. Considering the fact that WR recorded only 2 live albums (8:30Find albums with this title and the Japanese only release Live In TokyoFind albums with this title), this is a most welcome edition to their legacy. It features the band in various line-ups and the material includes tracks from studio albums as well as some jazz standards. The overwhelming talent and musicianship are evident throughout and this is a real treasure.
| | | CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAL URBANIAK ~ FUSION
COLUMBIA 5099706552529 (Barcode: 5099706552529) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1973 - 1974 Released: 1998
This is a reissue of the first US album by Polish Jazz violinist / composer Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, released originally on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label in 1974. The album was actually recorded in Germany in June of 1973 and released that year by CBSFind albums on this label on the European market under the title "Super ConstellationFind albums with this title", since the group was called Michal Urbaniak ConstellationFind albums by this artist. The US release added one track recorded in the US by Urbaniak with American musicians, which was used as the title track of that edition. The Constellation was a quintet which included also Urbaniak´s wife at the time, vocalist Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist, two keyboardists: Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist and Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, all top Polish Jazz musicians at the time. Constellation recorded also a live album in May of 1973, called "In ConcertFind albums with this title", which was released in Poland as Vol. 36 of the legendary Polish Jazz series, and included mostly live versions of the same material that is included on this album. The album presents seven original compositions, six by Urbaniak and one by Karolak.
The album is one of the most unique Fusion albums of all time, presenting a sensational amalgam of Fusion and Polish Folklore, pioneering the Jazz-World Fusion idiom light years ahead of anybody else. Dudziak´s vocalese pyrotechnics were completely innovative at the time and the double keyboards lineup, which allowed usage of early electronic wizardry, topped with Urbaniak´s idiosyncratic violin sound created a tapestry of sound unmatched by any other group on both sides of the pond.
The fact that Columbia released the album was truly surprising, as this music is completely European at its very core, which usually was way above the heads of American music industry executives. It took a Jewish Columbia executive Sol RabinowitzFind albums by this artist and his visionary openness to give Urbaniak a chance on the US scene, which sadly did not last for very long. Urbaniak recorded two more albums for Columbia: "AtmaFind albums with this title" (1974) and "Fusion IIIFind albums with this title" (1975) before the label gave him the boot.
In retrospect this album remains to this very day as one of the best Fusion albums ever recorded and is an essential chapter in Fusion history. It is also one of the best Polish Jazz albums of all time. Sadly Urbaniak did not manage to repeat the Artistic peak he reached on the Columbia recordings and although he is still active today, his triumphant days are long gone.
| | Updated: 08/09/2019Posted: 30/07/2019 | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAMES TAYLOR ~ HOURGLASS
COLUMBIA 5099748774828 (Barcode: 5099748774828) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1997
This is the 14th studio album by legendary American singer / songwriter James TaylorFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve tracks (and a hidden track), ten of which were written by Taylor. On the album he is accompanied by some of the best American studio musicians, and other musicians, many associated with Jazz, like saxophonists Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist and Branford MarsalisFind albums by this artist. StingFind albums by this artist adds vocals on one track and cellist Yo-Yo MaFind albums by this artist plays on two tracks.
Since his debut released in 1968 Taylor continues to create a steady stream of refined albums, mostly based on his own songwriting, which over time accumulated to one of the most significant American Rock songbooks. His personal musical style remains pretty unaffected over time and his sincere, heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melodies are all timeless gems.
Overall, this is a beautiful collection of songs, sung with great emotion and accompanied by superb musicians, which for any Classic Rock fan is a no brainer. Once familiar with Taylor’s songwriting, one simply never gets tired of his creations!
| | Updated: 24/02/2024Posted: 24/02/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | DELANEY & BONNIE & FRIENDS ~ D&B TOGETHER (EXPANDED EDITION)
COLUMBIA 5099750788028 (Barcode: 5099750788028) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 - 1973 Released: 2003
This is the sixth album by American singer / songwriter couple Delaney BramlettFind albums by this artist and Bonnie BramlettFind albums by this artist, known as Delaney & BonnieFind albums by this artist and later on as Delaney & Bonnie & FriendsFind albums by this artist. This album, their fourth release on AtcoFind albums on this label Records, was recorded in 1971 and released by the label in 1972 as "Country LifeFind albums with this title", only to be withdrawn from distribution almost immediately and sold to ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records, which released the album with an altered running sequence and the new title "D&B TogetherFind albums with this title". The album presents twelve songs, ten of which were newly recorded and two were recorded during the sessions for Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist´s debut album ("Eric ClaptonFind albums with this title"). Over forty musicians took part in the recordings and they are a loose version of the "Friends" moniker, including of course guitarists Eric Clapton, Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist and Charlie FreemanFind albums by this artist and a plethora of other great musicians. Almost all the songs on this album were written by the Bramletts. Sadly this was the last album recorded by Delaney & Bonnie, who divorced soon after. This remastered and expanded reissue includes six bonus tracks taken from Delaney´s and Bonnie´s solo albums recorded for Columbia after the duo´s breakup.
In retrospect this is perhaps the most "perfect" album by the duo, superbly sung, played and produced, with a great mixture of ballads and up tempo numbers and excellent songwriting. It is strange why Jerry WexlerFind albums by this artist (the Atco head poncho) decided to drop the album. The reasons were most probably personal (the strained relationship between the couple) rather than musical. In any case this is definitely the smoothest Delaney & Bonnie album, which potentially might have been a great commercial success, but in reality simply sunk into oblivion.
Delaney & Bonnie´s career, as reflected by the legacy of the six wonderful albums they managed to record, is a great example of a missed opportunities and bad luck, which prevented them from becoming superstars, which they well deserved. Their revolutionary concept of integrating Afro-American music with Rock in retrospect had a dramatic influence on countless musicians / songwriters around the world, which changed the face of music and completely eradicated racial segregation in music (at least for a while).
For Rock connoisseurs this is a must have gem, which is also a closing chapter of a legend. Younger listeners might lend it an ear to discover what music really is all about, contrary to what is marketed as music today. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 02/06/2018Posted: 02/06/2018 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | MOUNTAIN ~ NANTUCKET SLEIGHRIDE
COLUMBIA 510718 (Barcode: 5099751071822) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2003
2nd album by this ephonymous US power trio led by guitar maestro Leslie West. Together with Cream from UK (to which they had many connections due to Felix Pappalardi, who was the bass player and producer of Mountain, as well as the producer of Cream`s albums), these two bands practically invented heavy rock. Excellent songwriting and playing make this album one of the icons of early heavy rock.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | NEW RIDERS OF THE PURPLE SAGE ~ NEW RIDERS OF THE PURPLE SAGE
COLUMBIA 511127 ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
1st album from 1971 by this great US group, who were really an offshoot of the Grateful Dead and included GD members Garcia, Hart & Lesh. In fact the music they played has some of the acid-rock characteristics dominating GD music, but it is much tighter and less `lost in space` then GD, which makes it withstand the test of time much better. Garcia plays some of his best ever guitar here and the entire album is a blast (from the past)!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SANTANA ~ CARAVANSERAI
COLUMBIA 511128 (Barcode: 5099751112822) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2003
4th album, which reflects clear change of direction for the band (and the bandleader in particular) and initiating the entrance of SantanaFind albums by this artist into the world of Fusion. Following three phenomenally successful albums and a clearly defined style (perfected by five years of recording and touring) mixing rock with Latin and Jazz rhythms, the band was now in a turmoil, being torn apart by two conflicting tendencies. Some of the band members wished to continue the same path (stylistically) and others (especially Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist) wanted to move on to the next phase. In the period shortly preceding the recording of this album Carlos was exposed to two new major cultural influences. Fellow guitarists Larry CoryellFind albums by this artist and John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist introduced Carlos to the teachings of Guru Sri ChinmoyFind albums by this artist and he embraced these with passion. Santana’s drummer Michael ShrieveFind albums by this artist inaugurated Carlos into the burgeoning world of (then) contemporary jazz and Fusion of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, Weather ReportFind albums by this artist and Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, which he immediately fell in love with. All these new influences pushed Carlos further and further away from the old Santana style into Fusion, which would soon result in the collapse of the original line-up and the creation of a new band. CaravanseraiFind albums with this title is a crossroads album for the band, with several members playing here for the last time. Organist Gregg RolieFind albums by this artist and guitarist Neal SchonFind albums by this artist would leave soon after to form JourneyFind albums by this artist and new members, notably keyboards player Tom CosterFind albums by this artist and bassist Doug RauchFind albums by this artist would join. Since the album includes all of these wonderful players, the resulting music is truly exquisite. The dual lead guitar front line drives the melodic material to stratospheric heights and the expanded percussive rhythm section provides a soaring background. In spite of the “in transition” mood, the albums sounds cohesive and provides an uplifting musical continuum. The album was to be followed shortly by the divine Carlos Santana / John McLaughlin duet album Love, Devotion, SurrenderFind albums with this title and a series of outstanding albums like WelcomeFind albums with this title, IlluminationsFind albums with this title (with Alice ColtraneFind albums by this artist) and LotusFind albums with this title. An absolute classic!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHNNY WINTER ~ JOHNNY WINTER
COLUMBIA 511230 (Barcode: 5099751123026) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 1997
1st album (although Johnny WinterFind albums by this artist did record several albums on small labels before his ColumbiaFind albums on this label cotract, most impressive of which is the 1967 The Progressive Blues ExperimentFind albums with this title on Imperial, this is considered his first major release) by one of the best ever Blues guitarist, the Texan Johnny Winter. This was Winter’s first release on Columbia, which was to be his label for many years and where he was to achieve international acclaim as one of the great pioneers of the Blues / Rock electric revolution. The album presents Winter in a basic trio format, which works splendidly for him of course, considering the magnificent power he displays both as a guitarist and a vocalist. Additional musicians are featured on several tracks, including his brother Edgar WinterFind albums by this artist, who was later to join his group on keyboards, and some excellent horn players. The Blues legend Willie DixonFind albums by this artist plays bass on one track. The album includes a great mixture of Winter’s originals and classic Blues standards, all done with incredible vigor and potency, with heartbreaking guitar solos that are a steal. This album and its successor (Second WinterFind albums with this title) are some of the absolutely best White Blues albums ever recorded. A must for any Blues lover!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | MOONDOG ~ MOONDOG (MILLENIUM EDITION)
COLUMBIA 512820 ~ USA ~ Progressive Rock
Moondog (Louis Hardin) was one of the legendary figures on the New York music scene. A self-taught composer and player, he created some of the most fascinating modern music and also the most unusual. Impossible to classify, his music could be placed anywhere between contemporary classic, jazz, world music and Avant-Garde. This album collects all the music released on his Columbia albums from 1969 & 1971, which includes performances by top jazz musicians. A gem!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHAMBERS BROTHERS ~ THE TIME HAS COME (MILLENIUM EDITION)
COLUMBIA 512827 (Barcode: 5099751282723) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2003
The Chamber Brothers started as a folk/gospel/Rhythm And Blues group in the mid 60`s, but this album brought them to the attention of a much wider audience. It is an excellent example of how many US folk based groups embraced the new psychedelic sound and incorporated it into the R&B roots. The gospel like vocal harmonies are stll here, but the rocky instrumentation and the psychedelic sound create just the right spice to make it deliciously groovy! It was `the summer of love` and they were surely a part of what was happening. A classic!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ I SING THE BODY ELECTRIC
COLUMBIA 512897 (Barcode: 5099751289722) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 - 1972 Released: 1997
2nd album by the first jazz super group Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, formed by ex-Miles DavisFind albums by this artist group members Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist (keyboards) and Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist (sax) and the Czech bass virtuoso Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist. Vitous was asked to join the Miles Davis group in 1970, but for various reasons this didn’t work out. Instead he approached two of the group members and proposed to form a new group, which would continue the revolutionary new direction Miles was following (later to be named Jazz-Rock Fusion) and expand it into new territory. Zawinul and Shorter, both being at a crossroads at the time after leaving the ensembles they played in, agreed and Weather Report was born. Following the release of their eponymous album in 1971 the group embarked on several European and Japanese tours. In November of 1971 WR entered the NYC CBS studios to record material for their second album. These sessions were interrupted by another Japanese tour, during which a legendary album called Live In TokyoFind albums with this title was recorded on January 13, 1972. The live album was released as a double LP immediately, but due to the usual corporate bullshit the release was intended for the Japanese market only, and it stayed this way for almost thirty years (it was released finally on CD in Europe in 2001), making the album unobtainable to most WR fans outside Japan. Well, not entirely, as heavily edited excerpts of this recording found their way to the B side of I Sing The Body ElectricFind albums with this title, in addition to the a.m. November studio recordings on side A. As usual with WR, personnel changes started already at this early stage and in the cause of the very few months since the recording of the debut album the original WR drummer Alphonse MouzonFind albums by this artist was replaced by Eric GravattFind albums by this artist and original percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist was replaced by another Brazilian Master Don Um RomaoFind albums by this artist. More importantly however, the music of the band changed also quite dramatically. The debut album was an all-acoustic affair and here we have Zawinul using electric piano, modulators and other electronic devices, which eventually would dominate the WR sound. The overall sound is now almost identical to the Miles Davis In A Silent WayFind albums with this title / Bitches BrewFind albums with this title sessions. On the studio sessions WR used several guest musicians, notably the superb guitarist Ralph TownerFind albums by this artist (from OregonFind albums by this artist) on the classically influenced piece called The Moors and an extended brass session and vocals on the ominous anti-war piece called Unknown Soldier (remember the Doors?). This album is a timeless masterpiece and a cornerstone of Jazz (in general) and Fusion (in particular), providing a wonderful introspective peek at the most interesting (regardless of genre) period in the history of 20th Century music. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | AL KOOPER ~ NEW YORK CITY (YOU`RE A WOMAN) (MILLENIUM EDITION)
COLUMBIA 516091 (Barcode: 5099751609124) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
4th album from 1971. What a delight it is to be able to hear this wonderful music after so many years. Kooper`s superb songwriting comes out at its best here and he selected some of the best players on the scene (both from UK and the US) to deliver a perfectly executed album. Kooper is sad and funny, whimsical and lyrical - in short a true delight. One of the best US pop / rock albums of the era.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ IN BERLIN
COLUMBIA 519507 ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded just a couple of months after the 1964 "In Tokyo" album, this is the first recording of the legendary second Miles` quintet. Wayne Shorter replaces Sam Rivers and becomes the permanent member of the quintet for the next few years to take part in the jazz revolution that Miles orchestrated in the second half of the 1960`s. The chemistry of that ensemble is evident form the first note and the performances, although still based firmly in the jazz tradition of years past, obviously point towards the new direction those musicians were to undertake soon after. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MOUNTAIN ~ FLOWERS OF EVIL
COLUMBIA 52749 (Barcode: 074645274928) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 1996
3rd album by the US heavy rock outfit MountainFind albums by this artist, now expanded to a quartet with the addition of Steve KnightFind albums by this artist on keyboards. Another great collection of songs pefrormed flawlessly and with enourmous enegry and passion. Unfortunately this was to be Mountain`s last studio album, as they disbanded the next year after recording a live album.
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  | CARLOS SANTANA / JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ LOVE DEVOTION SURRENDER
COLUMBIA 63593 (Barcode: 074646359327) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2003
This is the most quintessential Fusion album of all times. Although sadly neglected and almost forgotten (both by critics and listeners) over the years, it stands out as a beacon of musical enlightenment for posterity. The album came to be as a result of many parallel events and personal / musical paths crossings. Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist and John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist became close after becoming disciples of Guru Sri Chinmoy. Although they were both aware of each other’s work before this musical cooperation, they operated in quite separate musical areas. McLaughlin at this point had already a glorious career stretch behind him with his pioneering work on the UK Jazz-Rock scene, his revolutionary work with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, the visionary contributions in the Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist LifetimeFind albums by this artist and of course his brilliant Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist output. Santana’s roots were deep into Latin music and rock, but he was rapidly transforming his musical focus into jazz and Fusion. Influenced by his band’s drummer Michael ShrieveFind albums by this artist, who was a jazz buff, Carlos discovered a new musical world and was swallowing everything he could lay his ears on. This included the works of Mahavishnu Orchestra, of which he was a devoted fan, but also the work of Miles Davis and John ColtraneFind albums by this artist. The actual get together was most probably orchestrated by ColumbiaFind albums on this label’s chief Clive DavisFind albums by this artist (both Santana and Mahavishnu Orchestra were signed by Columbia Records), suggesting a John Coltrane tribute album featuring both guitarists. The album was recorded almost immediately after Santana finished recording the pivotal CaravanseraiFind albums with this title album, which marked a series of dramatic changes both in the band’s musical direction (a move towards jazz and Fusion) and personnel changes (the forming of Santana Mk. II). A meeting of two great talents is always a dangerous affair, and this one could have proven either disastrous or absolutely divine – fortunately the latter did happen. The reason it did turn out to be such a success is twofold: First the musicians truly loved Coltrane’s music and felt the spiritual side of it (Coltrane went through a process of soul searching and seeking enlightenment in Eastern beliefs as well). Coltrane’s “A Love Supreme” is really a musical mantra very similar to a Hindu chant, which of course is as much a spiritual music as it ever gets. The beautiful “Naima” (the other Coltrane composition featured here) is also deeply spiritual, as are the two McLaughlin’s compositions and the traditional chant, which serves as the base for the remaining track of the album. Having established the musical / spiritual base of the session the rest was up to the participating musicians, which (again) most fortunately turned out to be ideal. Both Santana and McLaughlin brought with them associate musicians – Carlos brought selected members of his band (Armando PerazaFind albums by this artist – congas, Doug RauchFind albums by this artist – bass and Michael Shrive – drums) and John brought Mahavishnu Orchestra members (Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist – drums and Jan HammerFind albums by this artist – drums(!)). Veteran jazz drummer Don AliasFind albums by this artist was also invited, but the greatest and perhaps most crucial role was entrusted upon the organ player Larry YoungFind albums by this artist – John’s former partner in Lifetime. Young provides the foundation and glue, which makes this session work. With two lead guitarists exchanging licks at the speed of light and the super-power expanded rhythm section pulsating mercilessly, this session would have never worked without Young’s brilliant work. He fills the spaces, provides the balance and the sanity, the ground on which the soloist are able to build their sky-high towers. Of course the main attraction is the spectacular work by the two soloists, so different and yet so completely complimentary of each other. Santana’s sublimely melodic feel (truly unparalleled to this very day) and McLaughlin’s extraordinary improvisational abilities just merge into one continuous flow of musical bliss. Their exchanges are in perfect harmony, not competing but supplementing each other – fire and grace incarnate. This remastered edition enhances the originally muddy sound tremendously and the two bonus tracks are priceless. There is nothing but Love of music, Devotion to talent and Surrender to divinity on this album, the Mother of all Fusion albums! Beyond essential!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ ALBUM (EXPANDED EDITION)
COLUMBIA 64963 (Barcode: 5099706496328) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 1996
The history of jazz is crowned by a small pantheon of stellar figures, which are (more or less) unequivocally accepted as the most prominent contributors to the development of the genre. Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and John ColtraneFind albums by this artist are members of that exclusive club and so is Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, the most influential jazz pianist ever.
Since Evans’ biography is available from many sources, I won’t go into it here, so here are just a few personal comments: Although Evens played in a variety of settings, he surely deserves the title of inventor of the piano trio, a format in which most of his exceptional work was done. Over the years Evans led a series of legendary trios with the most eloquent bass and drums players, primarily noticeable for the phenomenal and telepathic level of interplay between the trio members. His (fortunately) numerable trio recordings are not only a document of his exceptional sensibility and lyricism as a player and composer, but also cornerstones of musical collaboration. Starting from the first trio (1959) with Scott LaFaroFind albums by this artist and Paul MotianFind albums by this artist and up to the last moments of his life (1980) with Marc JohnsonFind albums by this artist and Joe LaBarberaFind albums by this artist, the trio recording have always been the safest bets on musical delight one might ever take when buying a jazz album.
This particular album, recorded with legends Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist on bass and Marty MorellFind albums by this artist on drums, is very important in Evans’ history. It includes his first contributions on the electric piano (a custom-made version of the Fender Rhodes), which he will explore more extensively later in his career. It also includes exclusively his own compositions, as opposed to his treatments of jazz standards, which were earlier the bulk of his recording material. This was the first of the only two albums Evans recorded for ColumbiaFind albums on this label – the other (“Living Time”) still awaiting a proper reissue. I can’t imagine anybody who loves jazz (or in fact anybody who loves music) ignoring this album, so if you still don’t have it – now is your chance. Absolutely essential!
| | Updated: 01/03/2024Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERBIE HANCOCK ~ SEXTANT
COLUMBIA 64983 (Barcode: 5099706498322) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 1998
SextantFind albums with this title was Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist’s debut album for ColumbiaFind albums on this label (an association that would last for three decades) and the 3rd part of his sextet album trilogy, which started with MwandishiFind albums with this title and CrossingsFind albums with this title recorded for Warner Bros.Find albums on this label The sextet’s lineup (Eddie HendersonFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Benny MaupinFind albums by this artist on bass clarinet and flute, Julian PriesterFind albums by this artist on trombone, Buster WilliamsFind albums by this artist on bass and Billy HartFind albums by this artist on drums) remained steady for all three albums, which of course contributed to the phenomenal level of interplay they were able to achieve. Musically the album continues the path set by its predecessors, with long atmospheric compositions, which allow a lot of space for collective and individual improvisations. Hancock composed all the music on this album and again included in the recording the electronic music pioneer Patrick GleasonFind albums by this artist, who plays the Moog synthesizer. The music continues the direction pioneered by Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, with modal compositions and usage of electric instruments, but is spiced it with the addition of African rhythms and funk (to be expanded in the next edition of his group and the recording of the legendary Head HuntersFind albums with this title album), creating a highly expressionist soundscapes of rare beauty. Visionary music and another essential classic!
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  | MILES DAVIS ~ AT CARNEGIE HALL: THE COMPLETE CONCERT
COLUMBIA 65027 (Barcode: 5099706502722) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1961 Released: 1998
It’s good to see that record companies sometimes are able to get a grip and correct the mistakes of the past. ColumbiaFind albums on this label has certainly tried its best to do justice to the magnificent recorded legacy of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and this album is a part of that effort. This album assembles the complete Miles Davis Quintet / Gil EvansFind albums by this artist Orchestra concert recorded on May 19, 1961 at the Carnegie Hall, putting everything at the original recording order without editing or dubbed applause (the music included here was previously available on two separate albums: Miles Davis At Carnegie HallFind albums with this title and More Music From The Legendary Carnegie Hall ConcertFind albums with this title). This album is of course a perfect companion to the sublime Columbia 6 CDs Box Set The Complete Columbia Studio RecordingsFind albums with this title, especially as the concert was the first time Miles performed with the Gil Evans Orchestra live. 1961 marked an extremely busy and productive year for Miles. Following the departure of John ColtraneFind albums by this artist and Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, the “first” legendary Miles Davis Quintet was history and Miles quickly organized a new Quintet, which was to be his vehicle for an interim period of about two years, until the “second” legendary Quintet was to rise like a phoenix and take Jazz places never dreamt about. The “interim” Quintet included excellent and experienced players: Hank MobleyFind albums by this artist – saxophone, Wynton KellyFind albums by this artist – piano, Paul ChambersFind albums by this artist – bass and Jimmy CobbFind albums by this artist – drums (the last two were remaining members from the “first” Quintet). These players followed their leader with skill and devotion, creating some of the best modern jazz on record. Just one month before this concert the Quintet recorded a magnificent live album In PersonFind albums with this title (which is now available as a 4 CDs Box Set In Person Friday And Saturday Nights At The Blackhawk, CompleteFind albums with this title). The studio album Someday My Prince Will ComeFind albums with this title was recorded just a couple of months before the Carnegie concert recording. The next (and last) studio recording with Gil Evans (Quiet NightsFind albums with this title) was just months ahead. Looking back at this period it becomes plainly evident that Miles was already “miles ahead” in his mind, looking for a new vehicle and a new direction, which would commence shortly with the formation of the new Quintet and the groundbreaking new album ahead (Seven Steps To HeavenFind albums with this title). That of course makes this music no less magnificent, as Miles was destined to be “in transition” for the duration of his entire career. It remains here, recorded for posterity, for us mortals to enjoy (almost 46 years later), loosing absolutely nothing of its relevance and eternal beauty. Miles of course was one of the very few artists, who made a statement with every note they played. As such, these notes are a source of inspiration and joy for those who love this music. Essential!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERBIE HANCOCK ~ HEAD HUNTERS
COLUMBIA 65123 ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973
This album turned out to be one of the all time best selling jazz albums, and rightfully so. The Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist quintet takes a new direction and makes funk the focal point of their music, this being probably the quintessential instrumental funk album of all times. Influenced by music of rock-funk groups like Sly & The Family StoneFind albums by this artist, Hancock adds his jazz vistuosity to the basic funk elements and creates a masterpiece that withstands the test of time effortlessly. Absolutely essential cornerstone of modern music.
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THE COMPLETE IN A SILENT WAY SESSIONS
COLUMBIA 65362 ~ USA ~ Jazz
This is the 5th chapter in the Columbia’s epic series of Miles Davis Box Sets, which is a monumental reissue project of recordings by the most important Jazz musician of the 20th century. This set presents the complete sessions which originally resulted in the "In A Silent Way" album. The material was recorded over a 6 months period (September 1968 through February 1969) and clearly shows the new direction Miles was shifting into, after his legendary second Quintet was expanded and a new circle of musicians was selected by the Master to take with him the journey into the (then) unknown territory (Joe Zawinul on keyboards, John McLaughlin on guitar, Chick Corea on electric piano and Dave Holland on bass). Tony Williams on drums, Wayne Shorter on sax and Herbie Hancock on electric piano stayed from the second Quintet and also play on these sessions, which means that Miles used three keyboards players simultaniously in some takes. The music is much more spacey, atmospheric and further removed from the strict Jazz format, clearly pointing towards the Fusion explosion, which was to errupt on "Bitches Brew" - the next revolutionary album. This is some of the best music ever created on this planet and absolutely essential!
A special note to collectors:
The initial release of all the Miles Davis Box Sets in this reissue series is packaged in an exquisite metal-bound (except chapters 5 & 8 which are cardboard-bound) frame housed in a hard cardboard CD-sized slipcase. Once the initial release is sold out, the CDs are repackaged in a tall-box digipack book format. Naturally the tall-box issues have a much lower retail price tag (except for chapter 5). The initial CD-sized issues become all priceless collectors’ items in time.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 3 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | THELONIOUS MONK ~ MONK ALONE – THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA SOLO STUDIO RECORDINGS 1962-1968
COLUMBIA 65495 (Barcode: 5099706549529) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1962 - 1968 Released: 1998
Although usually considered as one of the forefathers of Bebop and modern Jazz in general, American pianist / composer Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist was in fact living in his own universe, often appearing as completely alien and separate to the one we all live in. Spiritually Monk was closer to other American musical "outsiders" like Fran ZappaFind albums by this artist, than to his Jazz contemporaries. He did operate in the general realm of Jazz, or even Bebop, but his complete disregard of "correctness", be it in following the "appropriate" chord changes or rhythmic patterns, sets him aside from most of the other protagonists. Monk played what he wanted to play, whatever sounded "right" to him, breaking all the rules, creating new chords and new rhythms. Often his music was so difficult to follow by other musicians, that some of his best work was delivered in the piano solo format. There were no restrictions when he sat at the piano alone, no other musicians to listen to and nobody to please, but himself. And it was pure genius! During the six years stint with Columbia Records between 1962 and 1968 Monk recorded a series of exceptional and revolutionary albums for the label, but only one of these was a solo piano album called "Solo Monk". However, he did record solo piano pieces during the sessions for the other albums, which are all collected here, together with the "Solo Monk" album, to present the genius at work, completely "naked" and at his best. This wonderful album also adds 14 previously unreleased Monk recordings, a true treasure chest for true Monk lovers. Monk´s treatment of his own compositions, as well as some Jazz standards he plays here, is an overwhelming richness of musical ideas, often excruciatingly difficult to follow at their full depth, but deeply rewarding to the dedicated followers of his work. Essential musical experience!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERBIE HANCOCK / CHICK COREA ~ AN EVENING WITH HERBIE HANCOCK & CHICK COREA IN CONCERT
COLUMBIA 65551 (Barcode: 5099706555124) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1978
A true meeting of Titans! Two of America´s greatest piano players - Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist and Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist - meet in 1978, facing each other accross two grand pianos and playing in unison for two hours. The music is sublime, uplifting and brilliant all the way. The true success of this recording lies in the fact that the two geniuses complement each other rather than competing with each other, dismissing their egos and concentrating on the wonderful process of music creation. The material includes jazz standards as well as compositions by both of the participants. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOPLIN, JANIS ~ BOX OF PEARLS
COLUMBIA 65937 ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
This beautiful 5 CDs box includes all the studio material ever recorded by Janis Joplin (2 albums with Big Brother and 2 in her own name) and a plethora of never previously released studio and live tracks as bonus tracks and a bonus EP available only in this Box Set. Janis was the greatest white female blues singer ever, and her heartbreaking voice and deeply emotional performances are as fresh today as they were at the peak of her tragicaly short career. Absolutely essential!
Limited Edition - Collector`s Item - Now Deleted!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 5 Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA ~ THE LOST TRIDENT SESSIONS
COLUMBIA 65959 (Barcode: 074646595923) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 1999
Although released only in 1999, this in fact is the 3rd and last studio album of the original Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, recorded in London in 1973 and never previously released. It`s difficult to believe that the producer and the group decided to leave this momentous material unreleased, but it did happen, probably due to the fact that John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist was already planning the new version of the group. The material is as good as the 2 original albums.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA ~ BIRDS OF FIRE
COLUMBIA 66081 (Barcode: 074646608128) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2000
2nd album by the phenomenal Fusion group Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, led by John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. Following the pattern laid down on the first album, this one soars and pulsates, shakes and stirs, like nothing before. Perfect performances and some great tunes make it another masterpiece. This music sounds today as fresh and revolutionary as it did when first released. A must!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHNNY WINTER ~ SAINTS & SINNERS
COLUMBIA 66420 ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1974 Released: 1997
6th album by Winter and his great band, including his brother Edgar and Rick Derringer. They play a highly energetic set of originals and standards, a mixture of rock `n roll and blues, which was always the Winter`s trademark. Some incredible guitar licks of course, as he is a master of his trade. This is a great reminder of how great rock music sounded in the mid 70`s.
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  | BLOOD, SWEAT & TEARS ~ 4
COLUMBIA 66422 ~ USA ~ Brass Rock
4th album from 1971. Again not a great favorite with the critics, but still a very strong album by the band, marking a transition to all originally written material. This was to be the last album by the (more or less) original line-up, which of course is a great pity, as they were undoubtedly one of the pioneers of Jazz-Rock Fusion and incredibly talented musicians. In retrospect this album is still a damn good listen.
| | Updated: 18/04/2020Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | WYNTON MARSALIS ~ LIVE AT THE VILLAGE VANGUARD
COLUMBIA 69876 (Barcode: 074646987629) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1990 - 1994 Released: 1999
This magnificent Box Set presents the Wynton Marsalis Septet recorded live at the most famous Jazz Mecca in the world, the NYC Village Vanguard club on Seventh Avenue in Greenwich Village – probably the oldest Jazz club in the world and a “holy ground”, where endless Jazz recordings have been made. The music was recorded between March 1990 and December 1994 and during those four and a half years the Septet was pretty stable, with just three musicians changing chairs: Eric Reed replaced Marcus Roberts on piano, Victor Goines replaced Todd Anderson on tenor and soprano saxophones / clarinet and finally Ben Wolfe replaced Reginald Veal on bass. The remaining four musicians are present on all recordings: Wynton Marsalis on trumpet, Wessell Anderson on alto saxophone, Wycliffe Gordon on trombone and Herlin Riley on drums. Wynton Marsalis is of course the most respected and adored Jazz virtuoso since the 1980’s and many see him as the successor of Miles Davis in the mighty Jazz Olympus. Marsalis is the epitome of a Jazz master: well bred, well educated, extremely intelligent and outspoken, with parallel highly successful musical careers in Jazz and Classical music and a revered trumpet virtuoso. Very few musicians have such an illustrious calling card to their credit. But above all these advantages Marsalis has also an incredible understanding of the Jazz idiom – both as a scholar (on the intellectual plane) and a performer / composer (on the emotional plane). His interpretations of Jazz standards are always way beyond the primeval melody - expanded and embossed with multiple layers of additional musical threads and polyrhythmic complexity. His ensembles always include the best and most skilled (usually pretty young) players, who under his direction and leadership manage to create some of the most fascinating and well played Jazz music ever. The choice of the septet as a vehicle to create the music Marsalis wants to present here is truly masterly. Seven brilliant musicians are surely plenty to produce an endless variety of solo / duo / trio improvisations at any given moment, as well as produce almost a Big Band sound when playing in unison. Therefore an incredible range of volume and density is possible and the dynamics of the music is constantly changing. Marsalis freely spans the entire stylistic spectrum of Jazz, from New Orleans to Post Bee-Bop, with a dash of free, with the band feeling equally confident all the way through. The entire set includes over 10 hours of some of the most fascinating and moving Jazz music I personally ever encountered and my musical experience would have been so much poorer if I never listened to this marvelous set.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 7 Box Set Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ BITCHES BREW (40TH ANNIVERSARY LEGACY EDITION)
COLUMBIA 775150 (Barcode: 886977515026) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2010
Almost every music lover on this planet is aware of the fact that this is a monumental piece of music, one of the pillars of modern Jazz Art Form and way beyond. I have lived with this music for 40 years now, since the day it was first released and I opened the gatefold double LP to place the vinyl on my record player, starting a musical journey that would last a lifetime. Now, while playing this new edition of the album, I feel the same kind of excitement and elation that always accompanies me when this music is playing. In the years that passed I´ve written extensively about Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and the "Bitches BrewFind albums with this title" album, so I won´t repeat myself. Suffice to say, that for me this is a masterpiece of extraordinary proportions, which gets better with time. I´d like however, to expand on the subject of how this edition compliments "The Complete Bitches Brew SessionsFind albums with this title" Box Set, making it clear that having just one of these two editions is simply not enough. First and foremost, this edition includes the version of the album as originally released on the double LP set 40 years ago. This particular version was elaborately edited, spliced, mixed and cooked by producer Teo MaceroFind albums by this artist, which was often dramatically different from the music actually recorded in the studio by the musicians. Regardless of the fact if one likes or agrees to what Macero did with the music, this is what the world knew as "Bitches Brew" until the appearance of the Box Set. The Box Set does not include any of these particular collages and therefore they are parallel, but far from identical. In addition, this edition includes six previously unreleased pieces of music; the first two being alternate takes from the actual sessions not included in the Box Set (which makes the "complete" part of the Box Set´s title redundant) and the other four being single edits from the album (previously unreleased on CD) – yes ColumbiaFind albums on this label did make singles for the radio from this album – imagine that! If all that is not enough, this set also includes a DVD with the Miles Davis quintet (Miles, Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist) filmed in Copenhagen in November 1969 shortly after this prophetic music was recorded, which alone is worth the price of the entire set. So here we have it – another essential piece of recorded history that everybody simply has to have.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | 2CD+DVD 3 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ FORECAST: TOMORROW
COLUMBIA 85570 (Barcode: 828768557020) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 - 1985 Released: 2006
This magnificent Box Set summarizes the 15 years (and 15 studio albums) of activity by the seminal Jazz / Fusion band Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, which shaped the future of the genre probably more than any other band in history. The set includes 3 CDs and a DVD. The CDs give a solid overview of the band’s output over the years (1971-1985), starting with a few pre-WR cuts (to show the direction Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist and Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist were taking) and even trying to predict the future by including a DJ remix of one of the tunes. To spice things a bit a few previously unreleased tracks are included. The true gem of the set is the 2 hours long DVD, filmed during WR Heavy WeatherFind albums with this title tour (with Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist and Peter ErskineFind albums by this artist), which is outstanding in every respect (sound and vision) and alone is worth the price of the entire Box Set. If you don’t own all the WR albums already (or any WR albums – shame on you) this is a wonderful opportunity to enter the magic word of WR and get hooked. If you do own the albums, you’ll still want the set for the bonus tracks and the DVD – in short it’s a winner any way you look at it!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | 3CD+DVD 4 Box Set Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THE COMPLETE JACK JOHNSON SESSIONS
COLUMBIA 86359 ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970
This is the 7th chapter in the ColumbiaFind albums on this label’s epic series of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist Box Sets, which is a monumental reissue project of recordings by the most important Jazz musician of the 20th century. Recorded between February and June 1970 this monumental document defines “Electric Jazz” – anything recorded since, be it Jazz, Rock or Fusion, has its roots here. These almost five hours of music remained mostly unreleased till this set was issued, as the original A Tribute To Jack JohnsonFind albums with this title album contained less than 10 % of the music included herein. Although a few other “cooked” albums included snippets of this music (Live-EvilFind albums with this title, Get Up With ItFind albums with this title, DirectionsFind albums with this title and Big FunFind albums with this title) they were never available in their full form. By the time this material was recorded Miles’ approach to creating music changed dramatically: he was more of a captain giving the crew a general direction as to where he wanted to go, ratter that a navigator concerned with the exact details as to the course taken. An enormous amount of freedom was granted to the stellar collection of participants (Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist – keyboards, Steve GrossmanFind albums by this artist, Bennie MaupinFind albums by this artist, Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist – saxes, Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, Ron CarterFind albums by this artist, Michael HendersonFind albums by this artist – bass, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Sonny SharrockFind albums by this artist – guitar, Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, Gene PerlaFind albums by this artist – drums, Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist, Hermeto PascoalFind albums by this artist – percussion) and for the first time Miles promoted John McLaughlin to be the primary soloist, much more dominant than his trumpet. McLaughlin of course was up to the job and presents some incredible guitar playing, firmly establishing the electric guitar as the leading instrument in instrumental music for the years to come. His fearless ventures into the uncharted territory of Fusion and even Rock would become a beacon for generations of guitar players, a source of inspiration and a vital learning tool. The unrestrained, almost jam-like atmosphere of the sessions inspired all the participants to search for the best they could achieve and the resulting music is simply phenomenal. This is visionary and groundbreaking, Promethean and pioneering musical creation, an absolute must to any Jazz fan that takes his music seriously..
A special note to collectors:
The initial release of all the Miles Davis Box Sets in this reissue series is packaged in an exquisite metal-bound (except chapter 5 which is cardboard-bound) frame housed in a hard cardboard CD-sized slipcase (except for chapters 1 & 8 which have a metal slipcase). Once the initial release is sold out, the CDs are repackaged in a tall-box digipack book format. Naturally the tall-box issues have a much lower retail price tag. All the initial release CD-sized issues become priceless collectors’ items in time.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 5 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERBIE HANCOCK ~ THE PIANO
COLUMBIA 87083 (Barcode: 5099708708320) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2004
As hard as it is to believe, this is the debut solo piano recording by Jazz Giant Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist. Aged 38 at the time of this recording, Hancock was at that time already a worldwide Jazz star with a resume, which only a very few other Jazz musician could produce. His recordings with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, V.S.O.P.Find albums by this artist and his projects as a leader include some of the finest Jazz music ever recorded, yet strangely he seldom attempted to perform solo piano pieces. Therefore this recording is a milestone and a rare document of the illustrious career of this great musician.
Recorded in Japan, this album was initially only released on the Japanese market, It took 26 years to have it finally released worldwide (the usual record companies bullshit), which is a true crime. The only consolation comes as the bonus tracks available on this issue. The original album included seven tracks (this issue adds four alternate versions), three of which are standards and four are original compositions by Hancock. His delivery is of course divine, breathtakingly beautiful and deeply touching. Hancock always had the incredible gift to utilize his extraordinary technical skill to express his deep lyricism and emotional insightfulness, which are even more evident on these recordings, considering him sitting alone at the piano. This is an absolute must for every piano-loving music connoisseur.
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  | MILES DAVIS ~ IN PERSON FRIDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHTS AT THE BLACKHAWK, COMPLETE
COLUMBIA 87106 ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded live on April 21-22, 1961, this superb Box Set presents the Miles Davis Quintet performing at the San Francisco’s Blackhawk club. Miles has just lost John Coltrane as a member of his (so-called) first great Quintet, which lasted for almost five years. Coltrane’s replacement, saxophonist Hank Mobley, faced an almost impossible task of filling the shoes of the departed Giant, but as these recording prove beyond any doubt, he was up to the challenge and ready and with the brilliant rhythm section consisting of Wynton Kelly on piano, Paul Chambers on bass and Jimmy Cobb on drums this particular Quintet turned out to be one of the most intense, hard-swinging and brilliant ensembles ever led by Miles. Although short-lived, it is documented on this momentous recording for posterity. When presented with great music the best thing a producer can do is to start the tape rolling and keep it rolling. This is exactly what this recording is all about – a complete record of the music as it happened during those two nights, no fiddling around, no editing, no splicing – 100 % proof great Jazz. The entire ensemble delivers an unbelievable explosion of attack and bravado, Miles plays some of his best solos ever, Mobley counter-attacks with ferocious, yet highly melodic improvisations of his own and the ever-so-elegant Kelly mixes his romantic harmonies and intense vamping behind the horns. Chambers and Cobb provide the rock solid, yet highly imaginative pulsation driving the entire ensemble like a chronometer and managing the intricate rhythm changes with precision and elegance. This is Jazz at its best – ass kicking and inspired. Thank God for the invention of the tape recorder – as I was 10 years old when this magnificent music was recorded, I would have solemnly missed this music if it was lost forever – now I can enjoy it as if it’s happening right now. In the 45 years since this music was recorded, it lost absolutely nothing of its aesthetic and intellectual value; en contraire it sounds so much better when compared to the endless oceans of musical boredom surrounding us in the form of (most) contemporary musical feeble-mindedness. Absolutely essential food for the mind and soul.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 4 Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL SIMON ~ THE COMPLETE ALBUMS COLLECTION
COLUMBIA 886919129229 (Barcode: 886919129229) ~ USA ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 1965 - 2011 Released: 2013
This sensational Box Set presents all fourteen solo albums by American singer / songwriter Paul SimonFind albums by this artist, recorded between 1965 and 2011, twelve of which are studio albums and two are live recordings (one of them a double album). It is commendable that two separate Majors (ColumbiaFind albums on this label and Warner Bros.Find albums on this label) managed to come to terms and release these albums in one Box Set, which is a rare phenomenon indeed. The albums are remastered and include a plethora of bonus tracks, which makes this particular Box Set one of the best ever.
This incredible collection of music is simply bigger than life in every respect. There are very few artists, who managed to produce over a span of over five decades such consistently superb material and stay relevant and up to date, if not lead, the changing styles, fads and fashions. Simon managed to do all this simply because he always stayed honest and loyal to his own aesthetics and Artistic vision, ignoring in a way the musical world that gradually deteriorated around him. He was always a one man island of sanity, perfection, elegance and morality, unshaken and untouched by age and circumstance.
As these albums show, Simon was always on the move, never resting on the crest of his success. He was one of the first American artists to discover and incorporate World Music into his Art, not as a passing fad but as part of his creative personality. South American music, African Music, Reggae and other World Music influences became over the years an integral part of his musical personality, mixed with the American Folk tradition which was his "Alma Mater".
Of course we must not forget about Simon´s part in the Simon And GarfunkelFind albums by this artist duo, one of the finest American acts in the 1960s, which continued to perform well into the 21st Century. Over the years Simon performed with some of the best musicians in the world and from all over the world, which is well documented in this Box Set.
There is no doubt that some of the most beautiful and meaningful songs ever written are included in this Box Set, being a preserved capsules of our Culture. Getting this Box Set might be the best money spent on music ever.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 15 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ LIVE IN EUROPE 1967: THE BOOTLEG SERIES VOL.1
COLUMBIA 886979405325 (Barcode: 886979405325) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2011
The Miles DavisFind albums by this artist second quintet is often considered the ultimate Jazz ensemble of all times. With saxophonist Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, pianist Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, bassist Ron CarterFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist as his partners, trumpeter / composer Davis was pushing music light-years ahead during the three and a half years this quintet existed (1965-1968). The studio albums recorded by the quintet (see "The Complete Columbia Studio Recordings Of The Miles Davis Quintet 1965-68Find albums with this title") are absolute masterpieces, which are totally timeless and unparalleled in their depth and perfection.
However, it was on stage that this ensemble really created its best work. Sadly, the recorded legacy of live performances by this quintet is not very extensive and therefore this release, which brings us 3 CDs and a DVD of previously unreleased live material by this quintet, is worth its weight in gold to every Davis connoisseur. Recorded (and filmed) during the quintet´s European tour in October / November 1967, this music and the film were all captured within a period of eleven days, which means that we get a clearly focused picture of what they were doing at the time.
After playing together for almost three years, the quintet was at the absolute peek of their creative powers, completely focused and intimately linked together by telepathic musical understanding. Listening to these live performance confirms all this, but also much more. It ultimately shows how creative these players were, even when performing a fixed set of compositions evening after evening. Davis, firmly in the lead, gives the cues to move from one composition to another or a change of tempo, but allows the individual musicians complete freedom. It is this freedom, which is the most striking and significant element omnipresent here, almost shocking in its power. Large portions of this music could be easily taken from a Free Jazz concert, even though the basic concept is still anchored in mainstream.
Collective improvisations often have all five members of the quintet playing at different tempi, scales and themes at the same time, somehow miraculously making a perfect sense. Personally I´ve always found the young Tony Williams to be the most striking personality in this ensemble, with his perception of rhythm more radically different and innovative than the other quintet members. A careful listener will be able to hear Williams play four different rhythms simultaneously, each played by one of his limbs. This barrage of sound is the most striking drumming imaginable, and an almost mystical experience.
It would be ridiculous to recommend this release, at it goes without saying that all modern Jazz listeners should find it absolutely essential and an obligatory part of their collections. Since the subtitle suggests that this is just the first in a series of previously unreleased Miles Davis recordings, all I can say is Halleluiah!
| | Updated: 20/05/2018Posted: | 3CD+DVD 4 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BIG BROTHER AND THE HOLDING COMPANY ~ LIVE AT THE CAROUSEL BALLROOM 1968
COLUMBIA 886979640924 (Barcode: 886979640924) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2012
This album brings to life an archival recording by Big Brother And The Holding CompanyFind albums by this artist from June 1968, still fronted by Janis JoplinFind albums by this artist who was to leave the group a few months later. The band performed constantly at San Francisco´s main venues: Winterland, Avalon Ballroom and Carousel Ballroom (soon to be Fillmore West). A live recording from Winterland, recorded in April 1968 has been already released by ColumbiaFind albums on this label in 1998 as "Live At The Winterland `68Find albums with this title". This new release adds to the overall picture and historic perspective, presenting a band at the peak of its powers with Joplin simply blowing any other contemporary US singer out of the water. In spite of the rather poor recording quality (which has been a source of endless bitching by a horde of wannabe critics) the music, the artistry, the genius, the tension, the incredible voice of Janis and some unbelievable guitar work by Sam AndrewFind albums by this artist and James GurleyFind albums by this artist makes this release worth its weight in gold for any Janis fan and a true music lover. With their superb "Cheap ThrillsFind albums with this title" album, which was completed just a month earlier (also partly recorded live), but still unreleased at the time of this recording, this album is a preview of things to come and includes most of the material included on "Cheap Thrills". Three track from this album appeared previously on the 1972 "In ConcertFind albums with this title" album, but with a completely different mix. So here we go, a trip lasting over 70 minutes, taking us back to the glorious days, when music was music, and nothing else mattered. Ye brave ones, come aboard!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ LIVE IN EUROPE 1969: THE BOOTLEG SERIES VOL.2
COLUMBIA 887254185321 (Barcode: 887254185321) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2013
Although it never reached the acclaimed status of the first and second legendary Miles DavisFind albums by this artist quintets, this was in fact the third quintet, with saxophonists Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist being the only link to the previous group and pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, British bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist being the "new boys on the block". Unfortunately, in contrasts to its importance as the interim vehicle, which served Miles during the period of his most radical transformation, this quintet never recorded in the studio, leaving behind only live recordings, most of which were never previously released and appear officially here for the first time.
After all this was the group that Miles toured with in 1969, after completing the seminal "In A Silent WayFind albums with this title" album and while he was recording the world-shattering "Bitches BrewFind albums with this title" tour de force. Shorter, Corea and Holland played on the former album and Shorter, Corea, Holland and DeJohnette played on the latter, so the links are obvious. The material herein presents two live appearances separated by a period of mere four months (July 1969 – November 1969), but musically the gap is enormous, with the earlier recording still anchored in the "In A Silent Way" mood, while the later are all "Bitches Brew" and beyond.
Miles cognoscenti will find here music, which is the closest to Free Jazz he ever played. Miles was never really part of the Free Jazz movement, going in different direction, which was his very own. But this quintet and Corea especially, were at the heart of the Free scene at the time. Corea used Holland and DeJohnette on his sublime "The Complete `Is` SessionsFind albums with this title" album, which was recorded at that exact time, and he and Holland will later form the A.R.C.Find albums by this artist trio and CircleFind albums by this artist quartet, both seminal Free Jazz ensembles. Miles gives Corea and the rest of the quintet space to stretch out, playing his parts splendidly as ever, even though it´s not exactly his "natural habitat", thus portraying him quite differently from the "iron fist" dominant leader status he was usually considered to be.
The music is sublime from start to end, completely untouched by time and filling a large gap in the recorded history of Miles Davis and his music, at its most pivotal period. The fact that we had to wait so long for this stuff to be released is beyond criminal, but as usual "better late than never" is the only solace. There are some slight sound imperfections, but considering this music was recorded live almost 45 years ago, this is completely meaningless. The DVD is sensational as well, both the audio and video contents, and constitutes a highly important document of the Miles Davis saga.
Of course this is an absolute must in any serious Miles Davis collection and hats off to ColumbiaFind albums on this label for keeping this legacy alive, even if the do it for the money. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 20/05/2018Posted: | 3CD+DVD 4 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ MILES AT THE FILLMORE 1970: THE BOOTLEG SERIES VOL.3
COLUMBIA 887654338129 (Barcode: 887654338129) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2014
This is the 3rd installment of the "Bootleg Series" live recordings by American trumpeter / composer Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, released by ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records. The recordings in this set originate mainly from the performances at the Fillmore East by the Miles Davis septet during four consecutive nights between June 17 and June 20, 1970. Three additional tracks originate from an earlier Miles Davis sextet performance at Fillmore West on April 11, 1970, recorded just a few days after Columbia released "Bitches BrewFind albums with this title" (on March 30, 1970), which changed the face of music forever.
The sextet and septet were the post-"Bitches Brew" working groups, which featured saxophonist Steve GrossmanFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist and Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist (in the septet only, first double keyboards group by Miles), bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist. Except for Grossman and Jarrett all the other musicians took part in the recording of "Bitches Brew".
The music is of course a direct follow up to the studio versions of these tunes and Davis makes no attempt to "ease up" or compromise the music and its intrinsic freedom and improvised nature, even though the Fillmore venues were at the time the Mecca and Medina of American Rock. Davis considered his music to be an integral part of the revolutionary wave of music created at the time, typically ignoring ridiculous genre divisions, and the audiences seem to share his attitude wholeheartedly.
Live recordings are always the best opportunity to check out the authenticity and integrity of musicians and these recordings are a great proof of the fact that the "Bitches Brew" magic really happened in the studio as a result of superb playing and visionary leadership, rather than post-production work by Teo MaceroFind albums by this artist. The overall level of the individual performances is of course incredibly high and inspired, full of intensity and virtuosic mastery.
Although the Fillmore West tracks suffer from some sound quality plight, this music is an absolute must to all Miles Davis fans. The four consecutive nights at Fillmore East present a similar set list, but the actual performances are so dramatically different that listening to them opens up a whole new way of comprehending the music of Miles Davis and understanding the concept of Jazz and its unique nature.
Four and a half decades later this music still kicks ass as only very few other sound sculptures are able to, and hopefully will continue to do so in the decades to come. Spearheading the Golden Decade, Miles Davis justifies his Godly status in full.
| | Updated: 31/12/2024Posted: | CD 4 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ AT NEWPORT 1955-1975: THE BOOTLEG SERIES VOL.4
COLUMBIA 888750819529 (Barcode: 888750819529) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1955 - 1975 Released: 2015
This is the 4th installment of the "Bootleg Series" live recordings by American trumpeter / composer Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, released by ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records. This time the recordings originate from the performances by Davis and his various groups as part of the annual Newport Jazz Festival, which still functions uninterruptedly since its inception in 1954 and served over time as one of the most important icons of American Jazz.
This 4 CD set spans twenty years of performances by Davis at Newport, starting with his appearance as a member of an all-star ad-hoc ensemble in 1955 and ending with his group´s appearance at the 1975 edition of the festival. It also includes two live recordings made in Europe (Germany and Switzerland) during the Newport Festival European tours.
With the exception of the first four tracks on CD 1, which include the above mentioned 1955 performance, which is rather badly recorded and completely banal musically, the rest of this set is, as expected, absolutely brilliant, with every second being completely revealing and historically significant. The 1958 appearance features the legendary first quintet with John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, the 1967-68 appearance features the even more legendary second quintet, the 1969 appearance features the core of the "Bitches BrewFind albums with this title" group, the 1971 appearance features the group with Gary BartzFind albums by this artist and finally the 1973-75 appearances feature the double guitar (Pete CoseyFind albums by this artist and Reggie LucasFind albums by this artist) and no keyboards group with Dave LiebmanFind albums by this artist (or Sam MorrisonFind albums by this artist).
Since the tracks are arranged (almost) chronologically, this set wonderfully depicts the transformation of Davis and his groups during that period, expanding the horizons of Jazz (and music in general) in a radical way, which only an Artist of his vision and prophetic drive could achieve. Considering the fact that most of this music was previously unreleased and the recording quality is quite excellent, this set is simply irresistible to every Davis fan. This music remains absolutely timeless and fresh, completely untouched by the tides of time; the Holy Grail!
| | Updated: 31/12/2024Posted: | CD 4 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ THE LEGENDARY TAPES: 1978-1981
COLUMBIA 888751412729 (Barcode: 888751412729) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1978 - 1981 Released: 2015
This is a collection of archival recordings by the seminal Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, one of the most important and groundbreaking ensembles which shaped the state of music as we know it and at the same time also achieved immense popularity both as recording and live acts, which of course helped to spread the gospel. The music on the four CDs which are included herein was recorded live by two lineups of the ensemble: the quartet with keyboardist Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, bassist Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist and drummer Peter ErskineFind albums by this artist (1978), and the quintet which adds percussionist Robert Thomas, Jr.Find albums by this artist (1980-1981). All the recordings are "bootleg" quality and in fact originate from recordings captured on portable cassette recorders (for those people who don´t know what this is, please Wiki it), which means that in spite of an effort to improve the sound quality it remains mostly Lo-Fi, sometimes almost painfully so.
Peter Erskine, who is the producer of this collection, in his extensive liner notes explains the circumstances of these recordings and adds his personal comments on a track by track basis. He wisely points out the differences about the two facets of Weather Report: the studio recordings which created a long series of incredible albums using advanced studio technology and a long process of mixing, editing and overdubbing following the recording, and the live performances, like the ones captured here, which were, as he puts it: "completely, totally, unapologetically and insanely live".
Since I already wrote extensively about Weather Report and their albums, I´ll say only what I find relevant about this specific release. When it was first announced by ColumbiaFind albums on this label I already had some mixed feelings about it. A four CDs worth of previously unreleased material by one of the most popular Jazz / Fusion bands of all times sounds simply too good to be true. When the actual set arrived on my desk, sadly my suspicions turned out to be painfully accurate. Although there are plenty of great moments on these four CDs, the overall result is simply disappointing for many reasons.
Firstly there is the sound quality and the recording quality (i.e. balance, distortion and other aspects of live recordings) which turn out to be a major hindrance when listening to this material. I often say that where there is sublime music, the sound quality is only secondary; sadly this does not seem to help in case of this collection.
Secondly there is nothing here that we haven´t already heard. Of course in case of Jazz every live performance is unique, but often the unique performance can be very similar to other unique performances and as such are of lesser importance. Obviously some performances are less inspired that others, and when looking at an artist´s legacy, I prefer to remember and cherish the most inspired ones. And yes I agree that Pastorius was a Genius, but if I hear one more Pastorius solo I´ll go ballistic.
Thirdly I am always worried about the motivation behind releasing archival material. Was this material released based on its strength, artistic merit and historic importance, or simply to squeeze some more money from the dwindling music buying public in a collapsing music market? I´ll let the listener be the judge of that.
And lastly the collection was released in a completely non-standard packaging (sizewise), somewhere in between the CD and the DVD size. Someone wanted to be creative all of a sudden? We, the oppressed buying public, have to be able to store these artifacts somehow and this one does not fit in the standard CD shelves!
For me Weather Report are a legend and I´d really love to keep it like that. This collection does put a slight dent on the ensemble´s iconic status, as far as I am concerned, which I deeply regret. On the other hand forever, four hours of previously unreleased material by Weather Report is devilishly tempting…
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: 25/12/2015 | CD 4 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ FREEDOM JAZZ DANCE: THE BOOTLEG SERIES VOL.5
COLUMBIA 889853573721 (Barcode: 889853573721) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1965 - 1968 Released: 2016
This is the 5th installment of the "Bootleg Series" recordings by American trumpeter / composer Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, released by ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records. For the first time in this series, the music included here comprises of studio recordings, rather than of live material, as was the practice so far. The music was recorded by the legendary second Miles Davis Quintet, which featured saxophonist Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, pianist Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, bassist Ron CarterFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist.
The music is presented in its rawest possible form, by simply including entire session reels, which comprise of rehearsals, false starts, partial takes, alternate takes and extensive studio chatter, all captured on tape in real time. The actual master takes follow, demonstrating the final result, which was eventually released on record. The whole concept of this set is to reveal a close inside look at the process of recording music and for people interesting in that process it is of course fascinating and absolutely unique.
Six of the master takes were released as the "Miles SmilesFind albums with this title" album released in 1967 and two were included on the "NefertitiFind albums with this title" album released in 1968. One master take remained unreleased for nine years and was finally included on the "Water BabiesFind albums with this title" album released in 1976. Several other tracks are previously unreleased.
Considering the fact that this music is performed by what is considered by many the ultimate Jazz ensemble to ever walk the face of the earth, every millisecond of this album is worth its weight in gold. The fact that they made mistakes and swore makes them of course human, but the way they play is definitely godlike. Although every devoted Miles fan is familiar with the master take versions of this music, the revelation of the process of their actual making is a deeply moving and for connoisseurs of the second Quintet this is of course an absolute must. For people who have spent huge amount of time in recording studios, like me, this is a close encounter of the fifth kind.
The fact that the music is absolutely sensational is of course obvious, which means that the more we can hear of it the better. The session reels, which are full of pauses and starts, can be a bit difficult for people not used to the studio reality, but are all worth the effort as they include some incredible music delivered once the quintet finally gets into gear and starts sailing full steam ahead.
As all the releases in the "Bootleg Series", this one delivers exactly what expected: previously unheard music, new perspectives, close encounters, historic moments and great memories. One can hardly imagine a more proper tribute to the genius of Miles Davis and the musicians associated with him than this series which takes the music seriously, is well researched, is aesthetically packaged, or in short simply works out wonderfully well. A BIG thank you to everybody involved in making this release a reality. One can only hope for many more installments in the future.
| | Updated: 31/12/2024Posted: 21/01/2017 | CD 3 Digipak Remastered Essential 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 |
  | SANTANA ~ SANTANA (LEGACY EDITION)
COLUMBIA 90272 (Barcode: 827969027226) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2004
1st album by the sensational group SantanaFind albums by this artist led by guitarist Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist. Their elecrifying set at the Woodstock Festival brought them fame even before the debut album was released later in the year. The unique combination of latin rhythms, rock and jazzy improvisations made Santana one of the best and most successful groups in the 70`s and the music stands the test of time formidably. This beautiful edition includes the complete Woodstock performance as well as outtakes from the album session, which see the light of day here for the first time ever. Absolutelly Essential!
| | | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JANIS JOPLIN ~ PEARL (LEGACY EDITION)
COLUMBIA 90282 ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
It is truly tragic that America’s greatest female Blues / Rock singer Janis JoplinFind albums by this artist left this earthly plane with just a couple of albums to her name. Even if we count the two earlier albums she recorded with Big Brother And The Holding CompanyFind albums by this artist that comes up to four albums! That is a terrible waste of talent and a shame. Fortunately some live recordings appeared over the time (both with Big Brother and later groups), which expand her available recorded legacy, but that is just a limited solace. Therefore every time some new material by Janis becomes available, my heart jumps with joy and anticipation – I truly can’t get enough of her amazing talent. “PearlFind albums with this title” was of course Joplin’s second and last solo album, recorded in September 1970 and released posthumously (she died just a month later). Janis was persuaded (by ColumbiaFind albums on this label executives) to dump her original band (Big Brother) in order to play with “better” musicians. Such bullshit was very common at that time, when record companies had the power of “life and death” over their artists. It took a while until her final band crystallized and became the Full Tilt Boogie BandFind albums by this artist, heard on these recording. The Kozmic Blues BandFind albums by this artist, which recorded with her the first solo album (“I Got Dem Ol’ Kozmic Blues Again Mama!Find albums with this title”) had still ties to Big Brother via guitarist Sam AndrewFind albums by this artist. When he was gone, it was a complete new situation, which perhaps reflected better musicianship (technically), but lacked the power, passion and “street wisdom” of Big Brother, not to mention the years of experience of playing together with Janis. Nevertheless, whatever was missing on the part of the musicians, who played with Janis in her last months, was amply compensated by her own talent, virtuosity and heartbreaking musical honesty. “Pearl” presents a more mature, slightly more relaxed and contemplative Janis, who rather than screaming and crying her heart out about her distress (and there is plenty of distress there), addresses her pain with sadness and sarcasm. Her performance is, as usual, beyond reproach. The unaccompanied vocal treatment of “Mercedes Benz” is perhaps the absolute climax of the album, and perhaps of her entire career, or even life. After all everybody dies alone. This new edition does unearth some studio outtakes, previously unheard, which are fabulous. In addition the second album of the set present Janis and her band during the Canadian tour in June / July 1970, when the band finally came together as a well oiled unit and Janis was flying high in the stratosphere, as always, at the top of her artistic power. She was, after all, primarily a performer and a live concert situation was her natural habitat. The title “Legacy Edition” was never more appropriate for an album than this time. Nobody on this earth should die before hearing this album.
| | | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ SEVEN STEPS: THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA RECORDINGS OF MILES DAVIS 1963-1964
COLUMBIA 90840 ~ USA ~ Jazz
This is the 3rd chapter in the ColumbiaFind albums on this label’s epic series of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist Box Sets, which is a monumental reissue project of recordings by the most important Jazz musician of the 20th century. Recorded mostly live during 1963 & 1964, the music documents the so-called in transition period of Miles between his two legendary Quintets. Miles was, as always. In search of the next step he wanted to take musically and was searching for the right musicians who could accompany him in his journey. Therefore, although this set includes music performed by a constantly changing line-up, the crystallization of the second great Quintet is well documented here, with Ron CarterFind albums by this artist (bass), Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist (drums), Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist (piano) and finally Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist (sax) gradually joined his group. All the other musicians playing with Miles here (George ColemanFind albums by this artist and Sam RiversFind albums by this artist on sax, Victor FeldmanFind albums by this artist on piano and Frank ButlerFind albums by this artist on drums) were admirable of course, but somehow lacked the special chemistry Miles required from his players.
The music contained here was originally released on the following albums: “Seven Steps To HeavenFind albums with this title”, “In EuropeFind albums with this title”, “My Funny ValentineFind albums with this title”, “Four & MoreFind albums with this title”, “In TokyoFind albums with this title” and “In BerlinFind albums with this title”. As usual, a plethora of previously unreleased tracks and tracks released on other albums and various compilations is also included, all present in full chronological order.
All of the material is painstakingly remastered and sounds superbly. Of course all this stuff is heavenly and although the musical progress here is slow, every note played by Miles is absolutely right on. There is a lot of tension in the air as Miles tests the ground for the next leap, pushing his musicians to the limit. The youngster Williams re-defines the meaning of Jazz drumming here, with more freedom and space than ever heard before, even with the parallel Free Jazz drummers. Hancock’s highly evolved musicality and deep sense of melody is already quite evident and Carter’s powerful and precise bass cements the entire concept together.
This stuff is as essential to any Jazz lover as air and water are to his physical existence. The box packaging is as lavish and extravagantly beautiful, as all the other items in this series, with extensive liner notes, detailed discography and many superb photographs.
A special note to collectors:
The initial release of all the Miles Davis Box Sets in this reissue series is packaged in an exquisite metal-bound (except chapter 5 which is cardboard-bound) frame housed in a hard cardboard CD-sized slipcase (except for chapters 1 & 8 which have a metal slipcase). Once the initial release is sold out, the CDs are repackaged in a tall-box digipak book format. Naturally the tall-box issues have a much lower retail price tag. All the initial release CD-sized issues become priceless collectors’ items in time.
| | Updated: 11/01/2024Posted: | CD 7 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS / JOHN COLTRANE ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA RECORDINGS 1955-1961
COLUMBIA 90922 (Barcode: 827969092224) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1955 - 1961 Released: 2004
This is the 1st chapter in the ColumbiaFind albums on this label’s epic series of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist Box Sets, which is a monumental reissue project of recordings by the most important Jazz musician of the 20th century. Recorded between October 1955 and March 1961 the music includes everything Miles recorded for Columbia with his legendary first quintet and sextet. John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, Cannonball AdderleyFind albums by this artist and Hank MobleyFind albums by this artist on saxes, Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, Red GarlandFind albums by this artist and Wynton KellyFind albums by this artist on piano, Paul ChambersFind albums by this artist on bass and Philly Joe JonesFind albums by this artist and Jimmy CobbFind albums by this artist on drums are the protagonists on these legendary sessions, creating this heavenly music, under the Master’s spiritual leadership. The music included here appeared on the albums: ’Round About MidnightFind albums with this title, MilestonesFind albums with this title, Kind Of BlueFind albums with this title and Someday My Prince Will ComeFind albums with this title, as well as on numerous compilation albums released later. There is little that I need to say about the music herein, as almost every Jazz lover is acquainted with at least the “Kind Of Blue” album, being the most widely sold Jazz recording of all times. The combination of the geniuses of Miles and Trane turn these sessions into a fundamental and quintessential Jazz experience, which serves as a model for all generations of Jazzman to come. Both of them were constantly on a spiritual quest to expand both their performing skills, taking them beyond the humanly possible, as well as crossing musical planes uncharted and visionary. Although created by humans, this music is worthy of Gods and should it have happened a few thousands of years earlier, it would be probably heard on the mount Olympus. I simply can’t imagine anybody not owning this music and listening to it repeatedly, as it is timeless and everlasting. Beyond essential!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 6 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THE COMPLETE BITCHES BREW SESSIONS
COLUMBIA 90924 (Barcode: 827969092422) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2004
This is the 6th chapter in the Columbia’s epic series of Miles Davis Box Sets, which is a monumental reissue project of recordings by the most important Jazz musician of the 20th century. This lavish Box Set contains one of the most influential albums in the history of music at its fullest form. The sessions took place between August 1969 and February 1970 and the term "revolutionary" does not even begin to describe the music. Miles invented completely new musical forms as he went along, crystalizing Jazz / Rock Fusion, expanding Free Jazz and re-defining Modern Contemporary Music. This is a pure work of a genius every step of the way and this music will last for eternity. Heavenly!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 4 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA STUDIO RECORDINGS OF THE MILES DAVIS QUINTET 1965-68
COLUMBIA 90925 (Barcode: 827969092521) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1965 - 1968 Released: 2004
This is the 4th chapter in the ColumbiaFind albums on this label’s epic series of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist Box Sets, which is a monumental reissue project of recordings by the most important Jazz musician of the 20th century. This set presents the complete studio output recorded by the legendary quintet between January 1965 and June 1968, which included Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist (tenor saxophone), Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist (piano), Ron CarterFind albums by this artist (bass) and Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist (drums). During this three and a half years period this quintet was the most important jazz ensemble in the world and also the most stable musical environment Miles ever enjoyed, which enabled him to push the boundaries of music ever further, slowly changing the face of jazz from the bee bop and Hard Bop traditions into the free style Fusion, which was to emerge as the next step of his visionary path. The sessions included here were released on the following albums and compilations: E.S.P.Find albums with this title, Miles SmilesFind albums with this title, SorcererFind albums with this title, NefertitiFind albums with this title, Miles In The SkyFind albums with this title, Filles De KilimanjaroFind albums with this title, Water BabiesFind albums with this title, Circle In The RoundFind albums with this title and DirectionsFind albums with this title. As to the music – anything I can say here will be completely banal in view of the sheer genus of this masterpiece. Not only is this some of the most essential music recorded in the 20th Century, but even every individual note played here is essential. This icon is a must in every respectable music collection.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 6 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | GREAT JAZZ TRIO ~ SOMEDAY MY PRINCE WILL COME
COLUMBIA 92819 ~ USA ~ Jazz
The Great Jazz Trio truly deserves its name. Brothers Hank (piano) and Elvin (drums) Jones and bass player extraordinare Richard Davis are all jazz Giants with a legacy that covers generations of the music. This beautiful trio recording from 2002 & 2003 is a stunning tribute to some of the most memorable jazz standards which get a loving and delicate treatment in the hands of the Masters. Breathtaking and deeply moving, this is timeless music. Unfortumately this was one of the last recordings by Elvin Jones, who died recently.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THE CELLAR DOOR SESSIONS 1970
COLUMBIA 93614 (Barcode: 827969361429) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2005
It would be incredibly presumptuous to write any kind of serious musical review of this music in a limited format, so I’ll only stick to the very basics here. The music contained in this set was recorded live on December 16-19, 1970 in a dinky little Washington, DC club called “Cellar Door”. Why would Miles play in such a venue at all remained a mystery (one of many around Miles’ life and work), as he could easily sell out any concert hall in the US. In retrospect it now becomes obvious that Miles simply wanted a sort of limited exposure live recording opportunity to record his new band, which was yet another change of direction in his career. Following the groundbreaking Bitches BrewFind albums with this title and Jack JohnsonFind albums with this title sessions, Miles decided to strip down his ensemble to the bare minimum and concentrate on a more rock / funk oriented sound. Miles was always intensely attentive to everything that was happening around him musically and his frequent performances at the Fillmore venues exposed him to scores of rock bands, which enjoyed immense popularity with the crowds. Miles concluded that he could easily play music, which would be as acceptable to the rock crowds as the rock music they were accustomed to, hell he could do it better! This sessions prove that he was absolutely right. For the new group Miles kept Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist on electric piano, since Keith was already at ease with rock oriented material he played in his earlier stints. He also kept Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist on drums, as John could rock better that any of the rock drummers around, considering his immense talent and technique. The saxophone spot was taken by Gary BartzFind albums by this artist (Steve GrossmanFind albums by this artist was having serious drug-related problems), a young and extremely capable player who sounded remarkably similar to John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, but felt comfortable with the funky rhythms. The biggest change (and surprise) was the bass spot, which Miles assigned to the tender MotownFind albums on this label (yes – the Jackson 5Find albums by this artist!) electric bassist Michael HendersonFind albums by this artist. Henderson’s pulsating funky rhythms set the essence for these sessions, not only serving as a rock solid foundation upon which the musicians are free to develop their improvisations, but also being the glue that keeps the music together. The quintet of Davis, Bartz, Jarrett, Henderson and DeJohnette play on all the 6 CDs in this set. The Brazilian percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist joins the quintet on the 3rd day (expanding it to a sextet) and is heard on 4 CDs. Moreira’s contribution to Miles’ music deserve a chapter in itself - in these sessions he skillfully adds color and polyrhythmic accents, always with taste and precision. On the last day the group is extended to a septet with John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist joining in on his fire blazing electric guitar, like there is no tomorrow. This truly turns the whole ensemble into the “greatest fucking rock band you ever heard”, to quote Miles. McLaughlin is in his usual great form, which means he is just way ahead of anything else done at that time on guitar. What about Miles himself? Let me just say that he plays some of his best notes ever on these sessions, full of vigor, passion and inspiration. What else can I say here? This music is beyond comparison, beyond criticism, beyond all the bullshit people say about music… If you didn’t hear it you simply don’t exist - musically that is ;).
| | | CD 6 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | TRIO OF DOOM ~ TRIO OF DOOM
COLUMBIA 96450 (Barcode: 827969645024) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1979 Released: 2007
A power Fusion trio consisting of musicians of such caliber as John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist (guitar), Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist (bass) and Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist (drums) usually only happens in the wildest and wettest of dreams by serious Fusion-heads, but if fact this one did happen in reality and even recorded both live and in the studio. Trio Of DoomFind albums by this artist was a one-time collaboration assembled for the occasion of the historic Havana Jam Festival in Cuba, where for the first time US performers were allowed to play before the Cuban audience. The festival took place for 3 days in early March of 1979 and presented a wide variety of US artists (pop, rock & jazz) and was recorded by ColumbiaFind albums on this label. Selections were later released on 2 albums, including 3 of the tracks on this album. Although McLaughlin never played before with Pastorius, both of them did play with Williams: McLaughlin as a member of his group LifetimeFind albums by this artist and Pastorius in Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, when Williams played on Mr. GoneFind albums with this title. The trio’s rehearsals were very successful, but the actual concert at Havana’s Carl Marx (what else?) hall turned out to be unsatisfactory due to a hectic and out-of-focus performance by Pastorius. The legend has it that Williams almost kicked the hell out of Pastorius after the gig (being a men of enormous physical strength this was no laughing matter), but seeing how spaced-out Pastorius was punched a hole in a wall instead. When Columbia informed McLaughlin that they want to use the Havana material for their albums, McLaughlin opposed and eventually a recording session was set up a week later to repeat the live performance in the studio. The resulting studio material was then used to overdub parts of the live recording, which appeared on the Havana Jam albums. This album brings us (28 years later) the entire live and studio material recorded by the Trio Of Doom in its original form, most of it previously unreleased in any form. The music is of course electrifying and almost super-human. All three musicians at the peek of their performing powers, with years of experience and enormous talents just can’t go wrong. Williams is in fact the moving power behind the trio, with his phenomenal technique and sublime interplay with his partners. This music kicks serous ass and whatever minor imperfections overshadowed the outcome at the time, those are long time gone and thankfully forgiven / forgotten. We can all enjoy this glorious Fusion gem, which is finally out of the vaults. Viva Fusion!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ BUNDLES
ESOTERIC 2196 (Barcode: 5013929729629) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2010
By 1974 the legendary Soft Machine switched record labels from CBSFind albums on this label / ColumbiaFind albums on this label (after releasing five magnificent albums on that label) to EMIFind albums on this label´s progressive HarvestFind albums on this label label, on which they would release the band´s last four albums before their epic story would finally come to an end. But the label switch was in fact only an exterior manifestation of the deep changes that the group was experiencing at the time. In retrospect, the four Harvest albums mark a completely new phase in the band´s musical direction, leaving behind the Free Jazz / Improvised Music extremes in favor of more structured and composed music, with strong melodic elements and almost mainstream Jazz-Rock sound. The most significant factor, which brought about the change, was Elton DeanFind albums by this artist´s replacement by oboe, saxophone and piano player Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, who also became the most prolific composer of the band´s new material. The second factor was the decision to include a permanent guitarist into the band´s ranks, which was to change the sound significantly from Jazz to Jazz-Rock. This was the first of the Harvest albums, with the Soft Machine lineup comprising of Jenkins, keyboardist Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist, bassist Roy BabbingtonFind albums by this artist and drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist. Saxophonist Ray WarleighFind albums by this artist helps out on one tune. The music is quite different from anything the band recorded previously, based upon shorter and beautifully composed melody lines. There is still plenty of improvisation by the players, but it´s much more settled and well organized. Holdsworth delivers some of his best playing to date but the overall level of musicianship is astounding. In retrospect this is still one of the best British Jazz-Rock albums and a magnificent piece of music history. An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ SOFTS
ESOTERIC 2202 (Barcode: 5013929730243) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2010
By 1974 the legendary Soft Machine switched record labels from CBSFind albums on this label / ColumbiaFind albums on this label (after releasing five magnificent albums on that label) to EMIFind albums on this label´s progressive HarvestFind albums on this label label, on which they would release the band´s last four albums before their epic story would finally come to an end. But the label switch was in fact only an exterior manifestation of the deep changes that the group was experiencing at the time. In retrospect, the four Harvest albums mark a completely new phase in the band´s musical direction, leaving behind the Free Jazz / Improvised Music extremes in favor of more structured and composed music, with strong melodic elements and almost mainstream Jazz-Rock sound. The most significant factor, which brought about the change, was Elton DeanFind albums by this artist´s replacement by oboe, saxophone and piano player Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, who also became the most prolific composer of the band´s new material. The second factor was the decision to include a permanent guitarist into the band´s ranks, which was to change the sound significantly from Jazz to Jazz-Rock. This was the second of the Harvest albums, with the Soft Machine lineup comprising of Jenkins, saxophonist Alan WakemanFind albums by this artist, guitarist John EtheridgeFind albums by this artist (who replaced Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist), bassist Roy BabbingtonFind albums by this artist and drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist. The last founding member of Soft Machine, keyboardist Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist left in the midst of recording of this album and his contribution here are minor. The music is a continuation of the direction set by its predecessor, based upon shorter and beautifully composed melody lines. There is still plenty of improvisation by the players, but it´s much more settled and well organized. In retrospect this is still a very solid album by a great band and an absolute must to all Soft Machine fans.
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ ALIVE & WELL: RECORDED IN PARIS (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2234 (Barcode: 5013929733428) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2010
By 1974 the legendary Soft MachineFind albums by this artist switched record labels from CBSFind albums on this label / ColumbiaFind albums on this label (after releasing five magnificent albums on that label) to EMIFind albums on this label´s progressive HarvestFind albums on this label label, on which they would release the band´s last four albums before their epic story would finally come to an end (for the time being).
But the label switch was in fact only an exterior manifestation of the deep changes that the group was experiencing at the time. In retrospect, the four Harvest albums mark a completely new phase in the band´s musical direction, leaving behind the Free Jazz / Improvised Music extremes in favor of more structured and composed music, with strong melodic elements and almost mainstream Jazz-Rock sound. The most significant factor, which brought about the change, was Elton DeanFind albums by this artist´s replacement by oboe, saxophone and piano player Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, who also became the most prolific composer of the band´s new material. The second factor was the decision to include a permanent guitarist into the band´s ranks, which was to change the sound significantly from Jazz to Jazz-Rock.
This, the group´s 1st formal live album, was the third of the Harvest albums, with the Soft Machine lineup comprising of Jenkins, violinist Rick SandersFind albums by this artist, guitarist John EtheridgeFind albums by this artist (who replaced Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist), bassist Steve CookFind albums by this artist and drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist. It was recorded live at the Parisian "Theatre Le Palace, Monmartre". The music includes material from the two previous Harvest albums, as well as previously unrecorded tunes. There is plenty of improvisation by the players, but it´s much more settled and well organized.
Overall, in retrospect this is still a very solid album by a great band and an absolute must to all Soft Machine fans. This expanded edition includes a whole second CD of previously unreleased material recorded at the same concert dates.
| | Updated: 06/07/2024Posted: | CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRACE SLICK & THE GREAT SOCIETY ~ COLLECTOR`S ITEM FROM THE SAN FRANCISCO SCENE
FLOATING WORLD 6250 (Barcode: 805772620520) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1966 Released: 2013
This is a reissue of the only album by the short lived San Francisco band The Great SocietyFind albums by this artist, fronted by the charismatic singer / songwriter Grace SlickFind albums by this artist, which also included her husband drummer Jerry SlickFind albums by this artist, his brother lead guitarist Darby SlickFind albums by this artist, guitarist / vocalist David MinerFind albums by this artist and bassist / flautist / saxophonist Peter van GelderFind albums by this artist.
The music was recorded live at the mythological San Francisco club “The Matrix” in 1966, and was released by ColumbiaFind albums on this label, first on two separate albums: “Conspicuous Only In Its AbsenceFind albums with this title” and “How It WasFind albums with this title” in 1968, following Grace Slick joining Jefferson AirplaneFind albums by this artist and that band’s phenomenal success. In 1971 Columbia reissued these two album as a 2LP album called “Collector`s ItemFind albums with this title”. The album includes early versions of two songs, that later became signature hits for Jefferson Airplane: “White Rabbit” and “Somebody To Love”.
The music is an absolute classic example of the San Francisco Sound and early American Psychedelia, proposing a brilliant freshness and revolutionary approach to music, which lost completely nothing of its charm over time. Even the sound quality of the live concert has its undeniable charm and the long instrumental jam closing the album is an epitome of that period.
Grace Slick was not only a sublime vocalist and great songwriter, but also a symbol of Liberalism and Social Rights struggle in the US, for which she often had to pay a personal price.
I have not heard this music in ages, and listening to it now not only brings fond memories, but again emphasizes the feeling of despair over contemporary Popular music, which seems to be wondering in the desert in a true Biblical sense.
Overall this is a delightful trip down memory lane…
| | Updated: 19/06/2021Posted: 18/06/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ADAM MAKOWICZ ~ WELCOME BACK, ADAM
FOR TUNE 0164 (Barcode: 5906395808786) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2022 Released: 2023
This is a solo piano album by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist, who left Poland in 1977 and settled in NY, where he released his first American album on ColumbiaFind albums on this label, simply entitled “AdamFind albums with this title”. Later on Makowicz moved to Canada, where he currently resides, visiting and performing occasionally in Poland. This album, recorded 45 years after his American debut, is a closure of sorts, as the title suggests. The album presents seventeen tracks, eight of which are original compositions by Makowicz and nine are standards. The music was splendidly recorded at the Nowa Miodowa concert hall in Warsaw.
The music is a delightful recital of relaxed and virtuosic performance, which presents Makowicz at his most melodic and elegant self. There seems to be no distinction between the original music and the well-known standards, which speaks volumes about his compositional abilities. Makowicz fully embraced the American Jazz tradition and his music sounds completely authentic and spiritually akin to the music composed in America almost a Century earlier by its best composers.
Makowicz is blessed with a very personal touch on the keyboard, which is blissfully elegant and often somewhat humorous, which invokes an immediate smile of “familiarity” on the listener’s lips. The excellent sound quality and atmosphere of the recording adds an aura of “class” and grace, which makes the virtuosic performances completely accessible and natural sounding, which of course is a great gift of the Artist.
Overall, it is an absolute delight to hear the Master at such form and dexterity, not to mention the fact that fact that the album offers a generous amount of new compositions, which are always most welcome. The album definitely summarizes the American chapter of the pianist’s career at a most affirmative way, and the fact that this time the album was recorded and released by a Polish record label certainly closes the fate’s circle.
Side Note:
This is the 100th album released as part of the “magenta” Jazz Series by the fabulous Polish For TuneFind albums on this label Records label, and the 164th overall release. The innovative label releases also World Music, Classical Music and other ambitious projects and earned a distinguished position on the market in the last decade, since its inception in 2013. Congratulations, my Friends!
| | Updated: 02/07/2023Posted: 02/07/2023 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAL URBANIAK ORGANATOR ~ D-DAY IN TOMASZOW
FOR TUNE 0171 (Barcode: 5906395808878) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2024
This is a live album by Polish Jazz saxophonist / violinist / composer / bandleader Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, one of the Godfathers of the modern Polish Jazz scene and one of a few Polish Jazz musicians, who managed to develop a career in the US, including even a short stint with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist. The music was a recorded by a quintet, which includes another Polish Jazz legend and Urbaniak’s collaborator for many years, pianist / organist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, which sadly marks one of Karolak’s last live appearances before his untimely death in 2021. The rest of the quintet comprises of trumpeter Piotr WojtasikFind albums by this artist, guitarist Gabriel NiedzielaFind albums by this artist and American, resident in Poland, drummer Frank ParkerFind albums by this artist. The album presents six tracks, three of which are original compositions by Urbaniak and three are standards. Karolak’s presence hints as to the quintet’s moniker chosen for this quartet.
As appropriate for a live album, the tracks are extended, all bar one lasting for over twelve minutes, which of course offers a splendid opportunity for musicians to solo at length, and which is highly enjoyed by the audience. Urbaniak displays his incredible virtuosity on the violin, which actually was his second instrument, as his early career was devoted to the saxophone. During this concert he plays the saxophone on three tracks. Karolak’s Hammond playing is absolutely delightful, and he was always a completely reliable player of great imagination and most importantly superb taste. The rest of the team also performs splendidly, supporting the two veterans amicably and with obvious respect.
Urbaniak’s compositions are obviously the more interesting material, especially his reference to the fusion of Polish Folklore elements with Jazz, which brought him fame in the 1970s, when he recorded the series of three such Fusion albums (“FusionFind albums with this title”, “AtmaFind albums with this title” and “Fusion IIIFind albums with this title” for ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records in the US), which were revolutionary and visionary at the time and still remain as some of the most rewarding example of this genre. Karolak played on the first two of these albums.
Overall, this is a wonderful snapshot of two Polish Jazz greats in action, which captures them at full swing, to the delight of the concert audience, and now also available as a lasting reminder of their talent. For Polish Jazz lovers this is obviously a must have item, and as usual kudos to the For TuneFind albums on this label label for keeping these memories alive.
| | Updated: 13/02/2025Posted: 13/02/2025 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | GARY PUCKETT & THE UNION GAP ~ GARY PUCKETT & THE UNION GAP / INCREDIBLE
GOTT DISCS 007 ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
This is a reissue of the second and third albums from by one of the greatest icons of late 1960s US Pop Gary Puckett & The Union GapFind albums by this artist. Puckett`s lush and velvety tenor voice and a great choice of beautiful ballads brought the group a string of monster hits written mostly by ColumbiaFind albums on this label producer Jerry FullerFind albums by this artist. Although relatively simplistic, the magic of the era is caught so well by this music that is seems ageless now. The 1st album includes the hit single "Young Girl" and the 2nd album the hit single `Lady Willpower`. Their first hit single "Woman, Woman" is added as a bonus.
| | Updated: 05/08/2019Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | NIEMEN ~ MOURNER`S RHAPSODY
GREEN TREE 120 (Barcode: 4015689001206) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2003
This is the 4th and last album recorded by Polish singer / keyboardist / composer / lyricist / poet Czeslaw NiemenFind albums by this artist as part of his 4 albums deal with CBSFind albums on this label. Following the recording and release of the first three albums in Germany, CBS decided to pass the torch to the parent company in US, ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records, and this album was recorded in New York. Produced by one of Columbia’s resident producers Sol RabinowitzFind albums by this artist, who had a lot of experience with Jazz-Rock, and surrounded by some of the best US players at the time, the album had all the potential to become a monster hit, but alas things turned out differently. The music world was obviously not ready to accept a non-English speaking artist to the hall of fame, regardless of how good he really was. The players on the album include (among others) Jan HammerFind albums by this artist (drums), Rick LairdFind albums by this artist (bass), Steve KhanFind albums by this artist (guitar), John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist (guitar), Don GrolnickFind albums by this artist (keyboards) and another great Polish musician, violinist Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist. Niemen wrote all the music for this album, some of it new and some taken from his Polish releases. The sound quality and production are the best he ever had up to that point and the album is perfect in every respect, except perhaps for the producer’s effort to “Americanize” the final result in order to make it more accessible. This affected the slick sound the album (similar to many other Columbia albums at the time), but overall the album is an absolute knockout. Niemen’s complex, but beautiful melodies and his unique vocal delivery are completely unrivalled. The album’s title track (taken from the Polish album “EnigmaticFind albums with this title”) gets here an absolutely stunning new arrangement, using a choir to deepen the already profoundly dramatic atmosphere of the suite. In short, this is a monster album, sadly overlooked at the time by Western music community, but a momentous achievement for one of the most unique Artists on this planet. One can not even imagine what one is missing not ever listening to this album. Essential listening!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PETER IVERS / BAND ~ KNIGHT OF THE BLUE COMMUNION
HUX 088 (Barcode: 682970000886) ~ USA ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2007
This is one of those legendary albums that a lot of people have heard about, but very few actually heard, or at least until recently when the album was reissued. American harmonica player Peter IversFind albums by this artist was a polymath, a Renaissance man of many talents. He was not only a gifted musician / composer, but also a writer, TV personality and avid follower of martial arts. His love for the Blues induced his decision to pick up the harmonica as his tool of musical expression, but his usage of that instrument was completely different and almost Avant-Garde in comparison to the instrument’s Blues roots. Active on the lively Boston scene, Ivers rubbed shoulder with many famous garage (and not so garage) local bands and by sheer fluke of luck landed a contract with EpicFind albums on this label – a major record label (subsidiary of ColumbiaFind albums on this label). For the recording of his debut album Ivers assembled a great group of musicians, which was quite “different” in every respect. By listing the instruments played by the group’s members: harmonica, oboe, bassoon, sax, guitar, acoustic bass, percussion and intermodulator (an early electronic instrument) one already sees that this was no ordinary group by any means. Add to this the fantastic female vocalist Yolande BavanFind albums by this artist, who fronted the band and poet Tim MayerFind albums by this artist, who supplied the lyrics and you get one of the most unique US bands of the era, which is often compared to Captain BeefheartFind albums by this artist or early Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist in their unorthodox musical approach. This debut album is special in every respect: the complex music, the unusual use of the woodwinds and brass and the mesmerizing vocals, all combined creating a weird and wonderful sonic experience. Naturally the album was a total commercial flop and although Epic did record a send album with the band, it was shelved. The only glance of that album – a single - is featured here as bonus tracks. The second album was recorded with another sensational female vocalist, Asha PuthliFind albums by this artist. Ivers went on to record two more albums for Warner Bros., but these were significantly less successful. He died mysteriously in 1983. This album remains to this day as one of the most interesting documents of an era, when everything was conceivable and some of it doable. Very interesting!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | HOWARD RILEY ~ ANGLE / THE DAY WILL COME
HUX 141 (Barcode: 682970001418) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 - 1970 Released: 2014
This is a reissue of the second and third albums by British Jazz pianist / composer Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, both recorded in a trio format with bassist Barry GuyFind albums by this artist and drummer Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist. Saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist plays on one track of the debut album, which presents eight original compositions, all by Riley. The second album presents twelve original compositions, six each by Riley and Guy. These two albums were originally released in 1969 and 1970 respectively, by CBSFind albums on this label (the European branch of ColumbiaFind albums on this label). This reissue is in fact a reissue of the 1999 remastered editions of these two albums, which disappeared from the market immediately following their release.
Together with these two albums, CBS, initially under the Realm Jazz moniker and later just as CBS, released also several albums by other British Jazz musicians such as the first two albums by drummer / composer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist, the first three albums by guitarist Ray RussellFind albums by this artist and debut albums by vibraphonist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, as well as albums by groups like Rock WorkshopFind albums by this artist, Soft MachineFind albums by this artist and others. All these are exceptional examples of completely non commercial / highly artistic music released by a Major record label, a phenomenon which reflected the spirit of that particular era and lasted for a very brief period of time, sadly never to be repeated again
By the time this music was recorded, i.e. by the late 1960s, British Jazz underwent a dramatic transformation, a quantum leap no less, from imitation to innovation. After copying the American Jazz tradition for decades, the post WWII generation rebelled and rapidly found its own methods of expression, embracing such diverse influences as contemporary European Classical music, World-Music and Rock and amalgamating them into a new identity, which would become first modern British Jazz and soon after copied all over Europe, including even the countries behind the Iron Curtain, modern European Jazz. In the aftermath of these remarkable events British Jazz scene was encompassing a diverse rage of stylistic alternatives, from Jazz-Rock and Jazz-World Fusions, via modern mainstream to a whole range of alternative / Avant-Garde experimentation including Free Jazz and Improvised Music.
It takes just a brief moment into the first album to realize that Riley belongs to the Avant-Garde oriented group of British musicians, who value freedom of expression and individuality more than convention and acceptance. Even on these two early albums he is already well advanced in his experimentation, keeping melody only as an entry point to his music, which is entirely based on the dialogue (or in this case trialogue) and collective improvisation, rather than on following the chord progressions of standards and keeping regular time signatures. Guy, who was just over twenty years old when this music was recorded, proves to be an ideal partner, a born adventurer and complete nonconformist. His bass playing on these two albums is an encyclopedic textbook of improvised music moves for fellow bassists, developed completely spontaneously and subconsciously. But it is Jackson, who is the biggest surprise on these albums, considering his almost entirely conventional background before these sessions as one of Britain´s most sought after modern mainstream drummers. His wonderful integration with Riley and Guy here is simply sensational and a superb proof of his open-mindedness and musicality.
In the years that followed these sessions Riley would record many more wonderful albums in many different settings, but these two albums would always symbolize his individuality and prophetic vision. The early signs of his exceptional abilities, which were about to push the boundaries of music and contribute to its development, influencing generations of players, are clearly evident herein, turning these albums into instant classics.
The most startling realization one is faced with, while listening to these two albums, is the fact that not only the music did not age or lost any of its relevance, but it still is right there on the forefront of the musical Art Form, exactly where it was almost fifty years ago. These iconic recordings have earned their position in the Pantheon of British Jazz right from the moment they were recorded, and their unavailability during most of the time that passed since was a crime against culture, somewhat repented by this current reissue.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAL URBANIAK ~ URBANIAK
INNER CITY 1036 (Barcode: 077712710367) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Funk Fusion
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2008
This is a reissue of the only album recorded by the Polish Jazz violinist / saxophonist / composer / bandleader Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist for the American Inner CityFind albums on this label label, which followed his stint with ColumbiaFind albums on this label. He is accompanied by his wife at the time, vocalist Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist and Polish saxophonist / composer Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist. The rest of the band comprised of American musicians: keyboardist Kenny KirklandFind albums by this artist, bassist Tony BunnFind albums by this artist and drummer Lurenda FeatherstoneFind albums by this artist. Both Dudziak and Namyslowski also released albums on Inner City. The album presents seven original compositions, three by Urbaniak and four by Namyslowski.
The music is a direct continuation of the innovative music Urbaniak recorded at the time, which combined Jazz, Funk and Polish Folklore. All the compositions are absolutely brilliant, since Namyslowski was also an excellent / prolific composer and followed a similar musical path at that time. The performances are also excellent, blending superb violin, vocalese and saxophone parts with the rest of the instrumental work. The rhythm section adds a Funky beat and both Urbaniak and Namyslowski play excellent solo parts throughout.
Overall, this is a brilliant album, which withstands the test of time without any problem. It documents the attempt of Polish Jazz musicians to develop a career in the USA, which in retrospect achieved a very limited success, and led to almost all of them returning to Poland, leaving no impact whatsoever on the American Jazz scene, which of course is hardly surprising. However, it produced some memorable recordings, this being one of them. For Polish Jazz fans this is a gem worth visiting!
| | Updated: 02/06/2022Posted: 21/05/2022 | CD 1 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 |
  | MICHAL URBANIAK ~ SOUND PIECES
MOOSICUS 1223 (Barcode: 885513122322) ~ POLAND ~ Avant-Garde Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 - 1973 Released: 2023
This is an expanded 3CD reissue / remaster of the two albums, “Paratyphus BFind albums with this title” and “InactinFind albums with this title”, recorded for the small German label SpiegeleiFind albums on this label by the ensemble headed by Polish Jazz saxophonist / violinist / composer / bandleader Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist. The ensemble included also Urbaniak´s wife at the time, vocalist Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist, bassists Pawel JarzebskiFind albums by this artist (on the 1st album) and Roman DylagFind albums by this artist (on the 2nd album), drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist and Yugoslav percussionist Branislav KovacevFind albums by this artist. The 1st album included five tracks, four by Urbaniak and one by Makowicz, and the 2nd album included seven tracks, all composed by Urbaniak. Both albums are now combined as the twelve tracks of CD1.
CD2 and CD3 of this album present three tracks each, recorded live by Radio Bremen during a club performance on January 21, 1972, a few months before the two studio albums were recorded, and later released in 1973. The material covers the same material that was later recorded in the studio. The lineup playing live is the same as on “Paratyphus B”, except for Kovacev, who is not present.
“Inactin” has several similarities to the live album Urbaniak and his ensemble recorded in 1973 in Poland, released as part of the legendary Polish Jazz series (Vol. 36) and entitled "In ConcertFind albums with this title", which in retrospect was one of Polish Jazz most significant and pivotal recordings and a giant milestone towards the discovery of Jazz-Rock Fusion on the local scene. Those two albums share several of the compositions and almost identical core lineup and most importantly the unique stylistic approach, which mixed Jazz, Rock, Electronics and Free Jazz in a way never previously attempted.
The Spiegelei contact, which produced the two albums, happened as a result of the success Urbaniak achieved in Europe touring there extensively in the early 1970s, which culminated with his appearance at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1971 and winning there a first prize as instrumentalist, at the time still playing the saxophone. The switch to violin, which was Urbaniak´s original instrument, changed his career dramatically and marked the new period in his career. The entire period marks a turbulent time for Urbaniak and Dudziak, with their dramatic emigration to USA soon after.
The music Urbaniak´s group created was definitely one of the most innovative and adventurous experiments done at the time, surely by any musicians originating from behind the Iron Curtain. The freedom of expression, which originated in the Free Jazz, mixed with the use of electric instruments and electronic voice enhancements, emerged as some of the most exciting sounds then, and to same extent even today, almost five decades later. Urbaniak used Polish folk motifs and uneven meters to make things even more exciting and Dudziak´s visionary usage of the human voice was eons ahead of its time. In retrospect her performances on this album remain unmatched to this very day, again five decades later.
In retrospect the two Spiegelei albums and the three albums Urbaniak recorded for ColumbiaFind albums on this label in the USA during the years immediately after his arrival there remain to this very day as his strongest statements, with the body of work created by him and his groups in the early 1970s being unsurpassed.
The album´s liner notes are pretty sketchy and such significant reissue surely deserves much better. Nevertheless, this is an iconic piece of music and as such deserves to be listened to today, after being unavailable for a scandalously long period of time.
Overall, this album is a dramatic statement in Jazz history, serving as a beacon to the fact that by the time it was recorded, Jazz development moved from America to Europe, never to return again. This music is so much advanced over anything happening beyond the pond, already at that time, and the fact that it originates from Easter Europe, from behind the Iron Curtain, proves that it has been finally liberated from American supremacy, or even perhaps enslavement. Any Jazz lover, who is not aware of this music, and sadly a vast majority is in that position, has very little understanding as what Jazz Music is all about.
| | Updated: 16/02/2024Posted: 16/02/2024 | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | DUKE ELLINGTON / BENNY GOODMAN ~ POLISH RADIO JAZZ ARCHIVES VOL.17
POLSKIE RADIO 1667 (Barcode: 5907812246679) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1934 - 1949 Released: 2014
This is the seventeenth installment in the new series of releases initiated by the Polish Radio, which presents archive Jazz recordings. Radio recordings are always a fabulous source of remarkable material, and as far as Polish Jazz history is concerned, the Polish Radio, which was a state monopoly for 45 years, recorded over time a plethora of invaluable material, which apart from the albums released by the Polskie Nagrania record company (also a state monopoly), is the only available additional source of Polish Jazz recordings. For many years Polish Radio recorded concerts presented during Poland´s most important Jazz venues, including the annual Jazz Jamboree Festival and many other festivals as well.
This album presents music recorded by the Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist Orchestra and several different ensembles and orchestra led by Benny GoodmanFind albums by this artist, recorded in the 1930s and 1940s and released on various labels (HMVFind albums on this label, ColumbiaFind albums on this label, CapitolFind albums on this label and RCAFind albums on this label) on 78 RPM shellac discs, which are part of the Polish Radio archives. The music was remastered from these original discs by Anna RutkowskaFind albums by this artist.
I must admit that I find this release quite surprising and consider its place in this series as purely accidental, as none of these recordings present music recorded in Poland by the Polish Radio nor does it feature any Polish Jazz musicians, and as such defies the purpose of the so far excellent effort to make this series special. The fact that these shellacs are part of the Polish Radio archive is definitely not a good enough reason for being included in this series. And additionally of course all this material is already available in the US and in Europe, after being remastered by the labels which released this music originally, in my higher quality, often in lavish Box Sets with extensive historical notes, etc. In short this effort is nothing short of bizarre and a sad waste of resources, especially in view of the fact that many other superb recordings in the Polish Radio vaults are still waiting to be released.
One can only hope that future releases of this series will return to the already established pattern, which served its purpose splendidly.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHICK COREA / HERBIE HANCOCK ~ AN EVENING WITH CHICK COREA & HERBIE HANCOCK
POLYDOR 835680 (Barcode: 042283568020) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1978 Released: 1988
The 1978 acoustic piano duet tour of Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist and Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist is documented on two albums – this one and the ColumbiaFind albums on this label companion album (also called An Evening WithFind albums with this title). Fortunately Chick & Herbie played so much music during their concerts that the two (both double vinyl albums originally) have no parallel tunes on them, except for the signature tunes: “Maiden Voyage” and “La Fiesta”, which get a completely different treatment on each release. This means that, as the music on both albums is absolutely divine (see my comments on the other album), they are both absolutely essential and constitute in fact a non-separable document. There is a slight difference in the choice of material on both releases, with this album including more complex and “freer” pieces with plenty of opportunities for both players to demonstrate their complete command of the instrument and more “unusual” playing techniques. On a side note: the tour was arranged not only to enable the two incredible musicians to enjoy each other’s company and inspiration, but also to “give the finger” to the horde of critics, which brutally dismissed Chick’s & Herbie’s 1970’s electric / fusion work, accusing them of betrayal towards the jazz Art Form and doubting their artistic integrity (which of course was a heap of nonsense). The performances included on these two albums prove how totally wrong they all were. Unfortunately two tracks on this album were edited (shortened) to enable the release of this material on a single CD (an artistic crime, that should be punishable by beheading the corporate decision-makers). Therefore a proper reissue of this album is still due – hats off to Columbia for not making the same stupid mistake.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ CHRONICLE: THE COMPLETE PRESTIGE RECORDINGS 1951-1956
PRESTIGE 025218440028 (Barcode: 025218440028) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1951 - 1956 Released: 1987
This is a monumental 8CD Box Set, which collects all the recordings by iconic American trumpeter / composer / bandleader Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, recorded for PrestigeFind albums on this label Records between January 17, 1951 and October 26, 1956. The Box Set includes 94 tracks, recorded during 17 sessions, with 34 different musicians, presented exactly in the sequence they were recorded. All the music was remastered for this CD edition of the Box Set from 1987, which was initially released in analogue form in 1980 as a 12LP Box Set.
Considering the fact that there is an endless amount of commentary about this music already written, I’ll only state some personal remarks here.
This Box Set presents the formative Davis’ period, during which he was looking for his personal form of expression. He crossed and zig-zagged Jazz genres with ease, be it Cool, Bebop, Hard Bop, or whatever, just in order to find the sound that represented him regardless of how it was classified. Playing with musicians, who were deeply rooted in one specific genre or idiom made him often uneasy and kept him searching.
On the last three CDs of this Box Set we can hear the Davis’ First Great Quintet, with saxophonist John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, pianist Red GarlandFind albums by this artist, bassist Paul ChambersFind albums by this artist and drummer Philly Joe JonesFind albums by this artist. The quintet was a turning point, as far as Davis was concerned, when his found his very own voice for the first time, largely inspired by Coltrane of course. Following the move to ColumbiaFind albums on this label and eventually with the formation of the Second Great Quartet in 1964, Davis would become completely liberated from the formal stylistic definitions, creating music that was first and foremost his own and beyond any existing style, often coercing critics to invent new style labels to fit his music.
During my conversations with Davis, he often stressed that the tendency of many American Jazz musicians to cling to Bebop as the basis of their music, simply holds them back from developing further (he was, of course, using somewhat less politically correct vocabulary, when making his observations). Davis’ Prestige period, although producing a vast amount of great music, as evident from what is included herein, was a transitional phase, which only towards its end managed to crystalize Davis’ musical personality, and which eventually would lead towards higher planes.
Overall, this Box Set is an essential piece of American Jazz history, which summarizes the first half of the 1950s probably better than most other recordings of that period. As far as Miles Davis is concerned, it is but a taster of his full might, which will explode about a decade later, but nevertheless it is a classic part of the puzzle, which every Jazz fan should be familiar with.
| | Updated: 03/02/2024Posted: 03/02/2024 | CD 8 Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | DON ELLIS ~ HAIKU
PROMISING MUSIC 44113 (Barcode: 602527326337) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2010
The trumpeter / composer / bandleader Don EllisFind albums by this artist was probably the most "progressive" and open-minded American Jazz musician of his time. He experimented with odd meters, World Music / Folklore themes and hired European musicians as members of his ensembles and Big Band. His contacts with Europe were excellent and his friendship with legendary producer Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist and the German MPSFind albums on this label label led to the release of two of his albums on MPS, when his US label ColumbiaFind albums on this label refused to record his novel ideas. These were sadly among his latest recordings prior to his untimely death just a few years later. This album was a second of the two MPS recordings and contains a beautiful suite for trumpet, Jazz group and orchestra, with ten themes based on ten short Japanese Haiku poems. Ellis plays wonderfully on this album, as do his colleagues: Bulgarian keyboardist Milcho LevievFind albums by this artist, legendary bassist Ray BrownFind albums by this artist, drummer John GuerinFind albums by this artist and guitarists Larry CarltonFind albums by this artist, David CohenFind albums by this artist and Tommy TedescoFind albums by this artist. The music is also wonderful, mostly melodic and gentle, but with the great orchestral arrangements and trumpet solos on top the overall effect is truly gorgeous. In many respects this is "the other side" of Ellis, compared to his highly energetic Big Band albums on Columbia. Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Slipcase Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ RUBBERBAND
RHINO 603497850785 (Barcode: 603497850785) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Pop Fusion
Recorded: 1985 - 1986 Released: 2019
This is an album by iconic American Jazz trumpeter / composer Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, recorded in late 1985 / early 1986, following Davis’ departure from ColumbiaFind albums on this label and new contract with Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, which was supposed to release the album at the time, but scrapped it, releasing the legendary “TutuFind albums with this title” a year later. As such, the album was often referred to as “the lost Miles Davis album”, until its release thirty-four years later, although some of the material was used on the last Davis’ album “Doo-BopFind albums with this title”. The album presents eleven tracks and features various studio musicians and singers, some of which are co-credited as authors of the music, in addition to Jazz musicians appearing on some tracks, like guitarist Mike SternFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Bob BergFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Adam HolzmanFind albums by this artist and others. The album cover features one of Miles Davis’ paintings.
The music has very little to do with conventional / traditional Jazz per se, and marks Davis’ interest in Funk, Soul and Rap. The overall result is an amalgam of various Pop trends, spiced up by Davis’ incredible (as always) trumpet playing on top.
Warner Bros. decision to scrap the album was completely justified at the time, as releasing the album would have damaged Miles’ Jazz reputation, surely in the eyes of his followers, which were not prepared for such radical change in style and sound. “Tutu” offered a much milder and more Jazz oriented alternative and opened the way to the “new” Miles Davis, and the albums that followed created a new image, which was embraced in time by most of his followers. Additionally, the album suffers from some production / sound problems, which were solved on those later albums.
Overall, the album emphasizes the pioneering spirit of Miles Davis and his vision, which was always way ahead of the music scene, as in this case. His trumpet playing is as Godly as ever and most of the music here reflects perfectly the ever-evolving path he threaded, often quite alone. The album definitely deserves to be a part of the definitive Miles Davis collection!
| | Updated: 12/03/2022Posted: 12/03/2022 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | BIG BROTHER AND THE HOLDING COMPANY ~ SEX, DOPE & CHEAP THRILLS
SONY 190758635224 (Barcode: 190758635224) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2018
This is a sensational archival companion to the iconic Classic Rock album "Cheap ThrillsFind albums with this title" by Big Brother And The Holding CompanyFind albums by this artist, released to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the release of the original album. The group, headed by the greatest ever female Rock vocalist Janis JoplinFind albums by this artist, included also guitarists Sam AndrewFind albums by this artist and James GurleyFind albums by this artist, bassist Peter AlbinFind albums by this artist and drummer David GetzFind albums by this artist. The album presents twenty nine outtakes recorded during the sessions that produced the original album and one live track from the Winterland Ballroom concert recorded in April 1968, which was not included on the live album that presents the rest of the concert, called "Live At The Winterland `68Find albums with this title". From the thirty tracks on the 2CD album twenty five are previously unreleased. The album´s title is what the original album was supposed to be called, but obviously at the time it was considered way to daring for a Major label.
For the Classic Rock cognoscenti there is very little one can add to what they already know and hopefully feel about this music. A wonderful amalgam of Blues, Psychedelic Rock, Rock And Roll and Soul, this music embodies what American music was all about in the late 1960s, constantly breaking new ground and being alive and kicking like it will never be again in the years that followed. Concealing twenty five previously unreleased tracks featuring the incredible artistry of Janis Joplin is a Cultural Crime, which Major labels like ColumbiaFind albums on this label have been committing repeatedly. Joplin´s recording legacy, tragically cut short by her early demise, left us with relatively limited evidence of her Godly talent, and this album offers a tremendous wealth of her unadulterated Genius. Although some of the songs are repeated several times, each and every take is completely different of course and especially Joplin´s heartwrenching vocals are completely unique time after time and as such worth their weight in gold.
Joplin´s stardom clearly overshadowed the role of the band, which although unfair was pretty understandable. But Big Brother was a great band by any standard, capable of great instrumental work and superb support behind Joplin. Both guitarists produced many exquisite solos on various occasions and the double guitar lineup was one of the first of its kind. This album confirms the band´s excellent work even further. Columbia´s decision to convince Joplin to drop the band and pursue a solo career was completely off the track of course as much as it was brutally unfair towards the band. As a result Joplin, notwithstanding her immense talent, would never sound as tight and expressive as she did on "Cheap Thrills". The tracks on this album clearly show why that happened.
Overall this album is a tremendous historical document of one of the greatest moments in American Classic Rock and an important extension of an iconic / pivotal Classic Rock album, which should be of interest to every Classic Rock connoisseur!
| | Updated: 18/01/2019Posted: 18/01/2019 | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SARAH VAUGHAN ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886919058727 (Barcode: 886919058727) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1949 - 1987 Released: 2012
American singer Sarah VaughanFind albums by this artist was undoubtedly one of the brightest stars of the female vocal Jazz scene, a member of a very limited legendary league, which includes but a few others. Her absolutely unique style, an amazing vocal range from female baritone to mezzo-soprano and a highly personal interpretation of the material she performed remain largely unmatched to this very day. She is a major influence as far as Jazz vocals are considered and many vocalists name her as their major source of inspiration. She is often referred to as a Jazz diva, a title earned but very few other female Jazz personalities.
During her career, which lasted for over five decades, Vaughan recorded an impressive body of work, released by several record labels. Strangely enough her association with ColumbiaFind albums on this label covers the early days (1949-1953) of her recording career, as well as her final recordings in the 1980s. Her entire recorded output is collected on four CDs, the first two dedicated to the early recording sessions and the other two to her late output: the live recording of the George GershwinFind albums by this artist and Ira GershwinFind albums by this artist songbook, which was recorded with the Los Angeles Philharmonic conducted by Michel Tilson ThomasFind albums by this artist and her very last album, which included Brazilian music she was so fond of, which was produced by Sergio MendesFind albums by this artist and featured a sublime cast of musicians, including keyboardist George DukeFind albums by this artist (another Brazilian music enthusiast), guitarist / composer Dorival CaymmiFind albums by this artist and guest vocals by Milton NascimentoFind albums by this artist on one track. This last album was recorded just three years before Vaughan died in 1990.
The contrast between the sessions, recorded almost four decades apart, is a wonderful perspective, which enables the listen to truly appreciate the greatness of Vaughan´s abilities. The Box Set is a great document, which should be enjoyed by every Jazz connoisseur, and of course vocal Jazz enthusiast. Marvelous stuff!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 4 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | BLUE OYSTER CULT ~ THE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886919363425 (Barcode: 886919363425) ~ USA ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 1971 - 1988 Released: 2012
This excellent Box Set includes remastered and expanded versions of the fourteen albums released by the American Rock band Blue Oyster CultFind albums by this artist for the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label between 1972 and 1988 and adds a whole CD of rarities and another CD of live radio broadcasts and finally a DVD capturing the band in 1978 at the peak of their popularity.
Although initially considered as the American answer to the British Hard Rock / Heavy Metal pioneers Black SabbathFind albums by this artist, the band proved to take a direction of their own, which initially was closer to Progressive Rock than Heavy Metal. Fronted by a charismatic singer Eric BloomFind albums by this artist, who also played guitar and featuring a double lead guitar (Donald RoeserFind albums by this artist and Allen LanierFind albums by this artist, who also played keyboards) instrumental capacity with a support of the excellent rhythm section consisting of brothers Joe BouchardFind albums by this artist (bass) and Albert BouchardFind albums by this artist (drums) the band was at the time one of the strongest and most ambitious American outfits on the scene. This steady lineup kept together for almost a decade and proved to be prolific and highly attractive as a live act.
The band´s first three albums, often called the "black and white trinity" (due to the album´s covers) are absolute classics of American Rock with ambitious excursions into Zappaesque territory and other quite adventurous ventures.
The next period, which lasted until the end of the 1970s, saw the band to turn into a Hard Rock outfit, producing a series of solid album, which brought them huge commercial success and as a result also tumultuous endless touring.
The last period, which continued into the 1980s, saw first personnel changes in the group´s lineup and produced several more albums, which failed to achieve the same level of musical excellence as before, gradually turning into pretty mundane output.
In retrospect this Box Set is a splendid document of the American Rock scene during the 1970s and 1980s, spotlighting one of the best bands active at the time. It is both worth revisiting by old fans and discovered by younger listeners, who never heard about the band in real time. Recommended!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD+DVD 17 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | CARLOS SANTANA ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS
SONY 886976260620 (Barcode: 886976260620) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 - 1980 Released: 2010
This Box Set collects reissues of three studio albums by the iconic American guitarist / composer / bandleader Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist, originally released on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label between 1974 and 1980. They are: “IlluminationsFind albums with this title” (1974), “Oneness: Silver Dreams - Golden RealtyFind albums with this title” (1979) and “The Swing Of DelightFind albums with this title” (1980). All three were released under Santana’s Sanskrit name Devadip Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist given to him by Sri ChinmoyFind albums by this artist. These three albums followed Carlos Santana’s debut solo album recorded in collaboration with guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist entitled “Love Devotion SurrenderFind albums with this title” (1973).
“Illuminations” is a collaboration with pianist / harpist Alice ColtraneFind albums by this artist, the wife of John ColtraneFind albums by this artist. SantanaFind albums by this artist (the group) keyboardist Tom CosterFind albums by this artist and percussionist Armando PerazaFind albums by this artist play on the album and Coster also co-composed three of the tracks. Jazz musicians: bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and several others take part in the recording, as well as a large string section conducted by Alice Coltrane, who wrote the arrangements and co-composed one the tracks. A short chant by Chinmoy is the album’s opening track.
“Oneness: Silver Dreams - Golden Realty” presents fifteen relatively short compositions, most composed by Carlos Santana and is performed by a large group of musicians, including many Santana (the group) members. The first six tracks were recorded live and the rest were recorded in the studio.
“The Swing Of Delight”, originally a double LP, presents nine compositions performed by a large group of top Jazz musicians, including Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, Ron CarterFind albums by this artist, Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist and many others.
These three albums together with the a.m. “Love Devotion Surrender” album present some of the most spiritual and deeply Jazz influenced music that Carlos Santana created during his long-lasting career. The mixture of Indian spirituality, which he shared with many Jazz musicians at the time, and extensive / hypnotic Jazz improvisations are in retrospect some of his best achievements, and deserve to be cherished and remembered.
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: 13/09/2021Posted: 13/09/2021 | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERBIE HANCOCK ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUM COLLECTION 1972-1988
SONY 886977240829 (Barcode: 886977240829) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 - 1988 Released: 2013
This monumental Box Set (31 albums, 3 of which are double CDs) presents the recording legacy of American keyboardist / composer / bandleader Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist during his most productive and groundbreaking two decades, in which his albums were released by ColumbiaFind albums on this label (and SonyFind albums on this label in Japan). Columbia was Hancock´s third record label; his initial recording career (1962-1969) was spent with the legendary Blue NoteFind albums on this label label, where he recorded a series of brilliant and pioneering albums as a leader and dozens of albums as a sideman, many of which are considered as part of the canon of Jazz recordings. After a short period of recording for the Warner Bros.Find albums on this label label (1969-1972) he signed with Columbia, which was quite natural considering that Hancock was a member of the second legendary Miles DavisFind albums by this artist quintet (1963-1969) and took part in many projects Davis led after the quintet disbanded, all of which were recorded for Columbia. Several of the albums in this box, which were originally released only in Japan, make their appearance outside of Japan for the first time.
The content of this Box Set emphasizes the incredible musical versatility and truly chameleonic nature of Hancock as an Artist. He plays in many settings, from solo keyboards, duos (with Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist for example), trios (with Ron CarterFind albums by this artist and Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist) and ensembles like the pioneering Jazz-Funk Headhunters or the incredible V.S.O.P.Find albums by this artist quintet, which followed in the steps of the second Miles Davis quintet, with trumpeter Freddie HubbardFind albums by this artist replacing Davis and the rest of the players being the original quintet members. It also shows Hancock as a composer of soundtracks ("Death Wish" and "Round Midnight") and his affiliation with World Music.
Musically the box covers an incredibly wide cross-genre musical plateau, covering such varied areas as modern Mainstream, Jazz-Rock Fusion, Jazz-Funk Fusion, Jazz-Soul Fusion, electronic and ambient music, orchestral music, Jazz-Classical Fusion and any other. Hancock´s exceptional talent as a composer is exposed here in the fullest and confirms his status as one of the most influential and revolutionary Jazz musician ever. His skills as a player are of course completely unparalleled and have served as a model for generations of young musicians all over the world.
It wouldn´t be an exaggeration to state that this box contains some of the most important Jazz recordings made to date and as a legacy its value is absolutely priceless and unique. It is of course worth every penny of this reasonably priced and beautifully packaged Box Set, even if one owns some of these albums separately already. Grab the box and give the older versions to your friends; they will surely be grateful and thank you.
This is an absolutely essential piece of Jazz history, music history and human Cultural legacy, which is way beyond recommendation. Simply a must!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 34 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ THE PERFECT BLUES COLLECTION
SONY 886978478320 (Barcode: 886978478320) ~ USA ~ Blues
Recorded: 1923 - 2004 Released: 2011
I usually don´t like collections of this sort, but honestly this one is quite exceptional. It was compiled by Sony MusicFind albums on this label for the French market by French Blues enthusiasts and one must raise the hat to those Frenchmen, they simply have more taste than most, especially Americans. The compilation consists of 25 remastered original albums, mini-sleeved, in a cardboard box. It covers the many faces and shapes of the Blues between 1920s and 2000s, proving not only the enormous versatility of the music, but beyond all the overwhelming influence Blues had on all other music genres between Jazz and Rock. The sources include not only the usual ColumbiaFind albums on this label vaults, but also the French VogueFind albums on this label label and several others, to give a comprehensive story of the genre. The albums are presented chronologically by the release date, which in some cases is not exactly parallel to the recording date, but overall the story of the Blues is presented in whole. The list of the artists is truly stellar and includes the most important Blues artists, who shaped the music. Considering that almost all of these albums are impossible to find separately and the incredible price tag, this is one hell of a bargain! A must!
| | | CD 25 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | STAN GETZ ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886978805829 (Barcode: 886978805829) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 - 1979 Released: 2011
With a career spanning half a century American saxophonist Stan GetzFind albums by this artist became one of the undying Jazz icons, making many milestone contributions to the development of the Jazz art form. He was probably one of the most versatile Jazz figures, associated with such diverse Jazz genres as Bebop, Cool, Bossa Nova and Jazz-Rock Fusion. His extensive recorded legacy includes many classic Jazz albums, which are considered timeless and are listened to today.
Getz´s most popular albums are those recorded during his stint with the VerveFind albums on this label label (1951–1972), but his albums recorded for and released on ColumbiaFind albums on this label in the 1970s, although criminally less known, are in fact some of his best ever and surely constitute the most diverse output created by one artist in a period of just several years, probably due to the complete artistic freedom and self-production rights he was awarded by Columbia. A total of seven albums were released on Columbia, spanning a wide artistic spectrum and all absolutely brilliant.
The set opens with the marvelous "Captain MarvelFind albums with this title" album, recorded with pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist (who wrote almost all the music on that album), bassist Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist, drummer Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist and percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist. This album was recorded just a month after the recording of the debut eponymous album by the newly founded Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist. It included some of the music already recorded on that debut album and other music included later on the second Return To Forever album called "Light As A FeatherFind albums with this title". This is definitely one of the most memorable early Fusion recordings.
Next comes the reunion between Getz and the Brazilian guitarist / composer Joao GilbertoFind albums by this artist ("The Best Of Two WorldsFind albums with this title"), returning to the Jazz / Bossa Nova style, which a decade earlier pushed Getz to the center of fame and popularity as a result of the commercial and artistic success of legendary early Getz / Gilberto albums.
Then there is the beautiful collaboration with the legendary vocalist / pianist / composer Jimmie RowlesFind albums by this artist ("The PeacocksFind albums with this title"), a straight-forward quartet date ("The MasterFind albums with this title"), another great Fusion album ("Another WorldFind albums with this title") with keyboardist Andy LaverneFind albums by this artist, an album of Lalo ShifrinFind albums by this artist´s compositions ("Children Of The WorldFind albums with this title") and finally a soundtrack album ("Forest EyesFind albums with this title") recorded in Holland with excellent Dutch musicians.
The Box Set also includes a bonus CD comprising of live recordings by Getz, compiled from different albums and informative liner notes. All albums are remastered and include bonus tracks. Together this is one of the most fascinating collections of music, simply exploding with musical genius and incredible performances. It is an essential document of what intelligent and open minded music is all about and an essential part of the Jazz legacy. Not to be missed under any circumstances!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 8 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL WITHERS ~ THE COMPLETE SUSSEX AND COLUMBIA ALBUMS
SONY 886978946720 (Barcode: 886978946720) ~ USA ~ Classic Pop
Recorded: 1971 - 1985 Released: 2012
Although sadly almost forgotten today, American singer / songwriter Bill WithersFind albums by this artist was one of the great heroes of the Soul scene throughout the 1970s. His illustrious, but relatively short career included many successful chart hits and Grammy Awards (both nominations and winnings), ending with him slowly disappearing from the limelight, for reasons not completely clear, especially since his enormous talent remains obviously unexhausted. Withers recorded four albums for the SussexFind albums on this label label (including the live recording of his Carnegie Hall concert) and another four albums for ColumbiaFind albums on this label, all during the 1970s. Then, after an almost six years break his last album was recorded in 1985, also for Columbia. All these nine albums are included in this Box Set.
Withers was an absolutely unique voice of his generation and in many respects he was more important than most of his contemporaries. He managed to compose sublime melodies and write intelligent, meaningful and touching lyrics and then perform them masterfully, like almost no other Soul artist of his generation. Deeply rooted in Blues and Gospel, his particular brand of Soul, mixed with early Funk, was absolutely marvelous and way ahead of its time. He recorded with excellent musicians, like keyboardist Booker T. JonesFind albums by this artist, guitarist Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist and drummer Jim KeltnerFind albums by this artist, who played on his debut album and later with members of the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm BandFind albums by this artist: keyboardist Ray JacksonFind albums by this artist, guitarist Benorce BlackmonFind albums by this artist, bassist Melvin DunlapFind albums by this artist and drummer James GadsonFind albums by this artist, who played on the remaining Sussex albums. Following his move to Columbia, he was accompanied by many of the great Funk and Jazz musicians on the label´s roster.
The music and the subject matter of Withers´ songs lost absolutely nothing of their value and meaning over time. Struggle with loss, addiction, social injustice, pains of heart and other deeply personal subjects, which Withers manages to capture precisely and in a few words, are closer to poetry than simple songs´ lyrics and combined with the sublime melodies are true masterpieces of songwriting. Considering the fact that songs of such quality are rarely created today, these gems become even more precious.
Remastered and mini-sleeved, this Box Set is an excellent tribute to a great Afro-American troubadour, who should not be forgotten and who still has so much to offer today. This is an exceptional addition to any serious music collection.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 9 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | EARTH, WIND & FIRE ~ THE COLUMBIA MASTERS
SONY 886978946928 (Barcode: 886978946928) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 - 1990 Released: 2011
American ensemble Earth, Wind & FireFind albums by this artist epitomizes the best in American popular music in the 1970s and 1980s, especially the music made by Afro-American musicians in these two decades. Following the two revolutionary decades (1950s and 1960s), during which Afro-Americans invented Rock And Roll and Soul, they moved now into Funk, which usually also included some Jazz elements. None of the ensembles active in the 1970s and 1980s came close to Earth, Wind & Fire in creating such an eloquent and aesthetically perfect collection of music, which amalgamated Pop, Rock, Soul, Funk and Jazz, like nobody else.
Founded in 1969 by vocalist / drummer / songwriter Maurice WhiteFind albums by this artist, the band released a couple of albums on Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, before moving to ColumbiaFind albums on this label, where the impressive body of 15 albums was released between 1972 and 1990. The music combined superb vocal harmonies with a funky rhythm section and a sublime brass section, which sounded as good as Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist and ChicagoFind albums by this artist at their best. The band enjoyed enormous commercial success, which didn´t damage their musical integrity one bit, which is quite exceptional and of course commendable.
This beautiful Box Set includes all the albums the band released on Columbia and an additional CD of bonus material. Together this is a massive collection of timeless music, which only gets better with time. This is a perfect match of fun and honest musical achievement, which can be combined, as this music proves beyond a shadow of a doubt. A major piece of music history, which would make any serious record collection proud!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 16 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | WOODY SHAW ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979189027 (Barcode: 886979189027) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1977 - 1981 Released: 2011
American trumpeter / composer Woody ShawFind albums by this artist is often referred to as the last great innovator of the Jazz trumpet tradition. His incredible technical skills as well as his deep Jazz sensitivity enabled him to create some of the most memorable Jazz moments. Unfortunately his recording legacy as a leader is relatively limited and his death at the ridiculous age of 44 has cut his career tragically short. Over the years he recorded extensively as a sideman and contributed his part to some of the most notable and pivotal Jazz recordings, especially during his stint with the Blue NoteFind albums on this label label in the mid to late 1960s, where he was the "house trumpeter".
Shaw´s most important work as a leader was recorded in the late 1970s for ColumbiaFind albums on this label, where he recorded five superb albums which finally awarded him the recognition and appreciation he so much deserved. These recordings allowed his to utilize in full his abilities both as a player and composer, surrounded by a splendid group of musicians. His music often used unusual musical devices, such as polytonality and the pentatonic scale, which Shaw absorbed from his idols like Eric DolphyFind albums by this artist and John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, from the 20th century Classical Music composers as well as from World Music influences. However he was able to utilize those complex and often quite difficult musical ideas and make them sound "easy" and natural to the Jazz environment.
The Columbia session were recorded with Shaw leading different combos, from a classic quintet to a tentet and even larger ensembles. The list of participants includes some of the most important Jazz performers active at the time, like trumpeter Charles SullivanFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Joe HendersonFind albums by this artist, Rene McLeanFind albums by this artist, Carter JeffersonFind albums by this artist, Gary BartzFind albums by this artist and others, pianist Onaje Allan GumbsFind albums by this artist, George CablesFind albums by this artist, Mulgrew MillerFind albums by this artist and others.
This Box Set includes all the five albums Shaw recorded for Columbia, remastered and expanded with bonus tracks, as well as a sixth bonus CD, which comprises of previously unreleased material recorded at the same Village Vanguard concert, which was partly released as the "Stepping StonesFind albums with this title" album.
This is some of the most remarkable Jazz music made in the 1970s and an important piece of the modern Jazz puzzle, which should be listened to by new generations and inspire them to carry the proverbial torch. It should definitely find its place in any serious Jazz record collection.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | DEXTER GORDON ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979189126 (Barcode: 886979189126) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1976 - 1980 Released: 2011
The veteran American saxophonist / composer Dexter GordonFind albums by this artist was one of the Jazz icons with a career spanning half a century. He was one of the great Bebop pioneers and his playing over the years remained more or less within the Bebop tradition. Gordon recorded extensively as a sideman and as a leader, participating in many seminal Bebop recordings. Since the early 1960s he recorded for the legendary Blue NoteFind albums on this label label, creating some of his best work there.
Gordon left the US for Europe, as did many other American musicians in the 1960s, where he lived for fifteen years, mostly in Paris and Copenhagen. He enjoyed the European way of life and cultural atmosphere, which was free from racial discrimination and admired Jazz. While living in Europe he continued to record for Blue Note and the Danish SteeplechaseFind albums on this label label. By the late 1960 he switched to the PrestigeFind albums on this label label in the US.
Gordon finally returned to the US for good in 1976 and signed with ColumbiaFind albums on this label, where he recorded the last of his output before his death in 1990. He also started an acting career, with the most notable appearance in the "Round Midnight" movie, where he portrayed a heroin addicted saxophonist, roughly based on his own biography.
Gordon´s Columbia releases started with the live recording of his homecoming concert at the legendary Village Vanguard in NY, and included three studio albums and one more live album recorded at Carnegie Hall. All these recordings expanded by numerous bonus tracks and a whole additional CD of bonus tracks are included in this lovely Box Set. The list of names of the accompanying musicians reads like the who´s who of the US mainstream Jazz scene of the 1970s, and includes trumpeter Woody ShawFind albums by this artist, pianists George CablesFind albums by this artist, Cedar WaltonFind albums by this artist, George DukeFind albums by this artist and others, vibraphonist Bobby HutchersonFind albums by this artist, bassist Rufus ReidFind albums by this artist and many others.
Overall this is some of the finest American mainstream Jazz played in the Bebop tradition, with wonderful performances by first class players, heartwarming solos and great compositions. Any true Jazz lover will enjoy these classic recordings and having them collected in one neat package with bonus material and informative liner notes is all anybody could ask for. Definitely not to be missed!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 7 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | WAYNE SHORTER ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979202429 (Barcode: 886979202429) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1971 - 1988 Released: 2011
There are very few Jazz musicians, who can claim being at the epicenter of the most innovative and creative music making for decades and also be called one of the greatest Jazz composers, but saxophonist / composer Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist certainly is one of them. His role as a member of the legendary second Miles DavisFind albums by this artist quintet and than as co-founder and co-leader of the no less legendary Weather ReportFind albums by this artist are already more significant than the achievements of most other musicians, but Shorter also has a most impressive solo career, which spans from the late 1950s to now, i.e. for over half a century.
Shorter´s recordings as a leader, which were chronologically released on the Vee-JayFind albums on this label, Blue NoteFind albums on this label, ColumbiaFind albums on this label and VerveFind albums on this label labels present a magnificent body of work both as a performer and a composer. The Blue Note recordings, eleven albums released between 1964 and 1970 and recorded while he was a member of the Miles Davis quintet, are perhaps the most impressive and pivotal as far as Jazz development is concerned, but all the others are also great showcases of his talent.
Shorter recorded four albums for Columbia; one in 1974 and the other three in the late 1980s, all of which are included in this Box Set. The first album, ("Native DancerFind albums with this title") recorded with the brilliant Brazilian musician / composer Milton NascimentoFind albums by this artist is the most memorable and impressive of the Columbia recordings and a beautiful example of Jazz-World Fusion at its best. In addition to several great Brazilian musicians playing on the album, including Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist, it also features Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist on piano. The other three albums are somewhat Fusion oriented and feature different lineups of first class musicians, especially keyboard players like Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, Stu GoldbergFind albums by this artist, Jim BeardFind albums by this artist, Patrice RushenFind albums by this artist, Geri AllenFind albums by this artist and others and of course almost exclusively the superb compositions by Shorter.
This Box Set also includes two bonus CDs, which collect all Weather Report tracks, which were composed by Wayne Shorter and recorded during the group´s entire lifespan. Although not adding anything new, these CDs present a great historic document of Shorter´s contribution as a composer to the group´s monumental accomplishments.
This Box Set is a must to all Wayne Shorter fans, especially in view of the fact that the individual albums have been out of print for ages. The musical content is of course top notch in every respect, a part of the legacy of a great musician, which deserves to be heard and remembered!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | TAJ MAHAL ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979234420 (Barcode: 886979234420) ~ USA ~ Blues
Recorded: 1964 - 1976 Released: 2012
This wonderful Box Set compiles all the material recorded for the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label by the legendary Blues singer / songwriter Taj MahalFind albums by this artist. His stint with the label lasted for about 12 years between 1964 and 1976 and covers the initial phases of his career, which resulted in eleven albums released on Columbia. His early album with the group Rising SonsFind albums by this artist, which also included guitarist Ry CooderFind albums by this artist, remained unreleased until 1992 and is also included in this Box Set as is a double album of previously unreleased studio and concert material.
Mahal´s music goes through several significant changes during the period covered by these recordings: Rising Sons was one of the first American bands mixing Country, Blues and Rock and in retrospect their album is a revolutionary step in the formation of American Rock music. By the late 1960s Mahal entered the electric Blues period, which paired him with the superb guitarist Jesse Ed DavisFind albums by this artist and produced three brilliant Blues-Rock albums. In early 1970s he ventured into a short love affair with Jazz, producing a couple of excellent albums with a large brass ensemble. Finally the rest of the 1970s Mahal spent exploring various World Music influences like Reggae, Calypso, Zydeco and others, mixing them with his Blues heritage and producing some extraordinary music in the process.
In retrospect this Box Set presents a diverse and fascinating body of music, which unfortunately never truly achieved the recognition it deserves. Mahal surely deserves credit for his constant explorations and his open-mindedness, which is quite extraordinary.
Remastered and mini-sleeved, with bonus material and an informative booklet this Box Set is a treasure chest, which music connoisseurs should really enjoy, all this in addition to its intrinsic value as an important puzzle in the history of music. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 15 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | GROVER WASHINGTON, JR. ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979244825 (Barcode: 886979244825) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1985 - 1999 Released: 2011
This Box Set includes all the albums released by US saxophonist / composer Grover Washington, Jr.Find albums by this artist on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label, which spanned the last decade and a half of his life, untimely cut short by his tragic and unexpected death. Washington, primarily known as the Godfather of Smooth Jazz was in fact a gifted Jazz musician with a career spanning almost forty years, which slowly shifted from mainstream Jazz towards Jazz-Funk and Soul-Jazz. He enjoyed immense popularity amongst non-Jazz music lovers, but his true Jazz spirit was always a part of his milieu, especially when examined in retrospect.
The Columbia recordings present a wide range of stylistically diverse settings, moving between Funk, Soul-Jazz and mainstream Jazz, which is rarely associated with his legacy. Some superb players took part in these recordings, such as trumpeter Eddie HendersonFind albums by this artist, pianists Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist and Hank JonesFind albums by this artist, bassists Ron CarterFind albums by this artist and George MrazFind albums by this artist, drummer Billy HartFind albums by this artist and many, many more. Washington plays alto, tenor and soprano saxophones with mastery skill and fluency and his improvisational abilities are beyond reproach.
Of course many hardcore Jazz listeners will find this music way to "easy going" for their ears, but many will also be surprised by the Artistry Washington presents often on these albums. Listeners, who like the easier side of Jazz, should find this stuff absolutely delightful. Whatever one´s opinion of Washington´s music may be, one must admit that he certainly was one of the most influential musicians in the 1980s and 1990s. This Box Set, with the original albums mini-sleeved and an informational liner notes included is definitely worth investigating.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 9 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | GEORGE DUKE ~ THE COMPLETE 1970S EPIC ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979303225 (Barcode: 886979303225) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1977 - 1979 Released: 2012
American keyboardist / composer George DukeFind albums by this artist is definitely one of the most colorful, dynamic, brilliant and versatile musical personalities on the scene. With a career spanning five decades and activities covering such diverse sub-genres as mainstream Jazz, Jazz-Rock Fusion, Rock, Funk and Jazz-World Fusion, Duke made over the years an enormous impact on the development of contemporary music.
Following a several years long association (early to mid 1970s) with the legendary German MPSFind albums on this label label, where Duke released his revolutionary early Fusion albums, he switched to the EpicFind albums on this label label (a subsidiary of ColumbiaFind albums on this label), where he recorded six albums between 1977 and 1979, all of which are included in this wonderful Box Set.
The Epic recordings reveal Duke gradually moving away from the Jazz and even Fusion roots, replacing those by Funk and other popular music influences. Only the last album in this set ("A Brazilian Love AffairFind albums with this title") is different and presents Duke as a Jazz-World Fusion artist, with an obvious affinity for Brazilian music. On that album he is supported by several famous Brazilian musicians, including vocalist Milton NascimentoFind albums by this artist, percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist, vocalist Flora PurimFind albums by this artist, guitarist Toninho HortaFind albums by this artist and many others, in addition to his American regulars. On all the albums he plays with an excellent group of musicians, which includes his long-time friend bassist Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist, drummer Leon Ndugu ChanclerFind albums by this artist, bassist Byron MillerFind albums by this artist, percussionist Sheila EscovedoFind albums by this artist and numerous others, including many brass players as well, which shows a clear influence of Earth, Wind & FireFind albums by this artist on Duke´s music at the time.
Duke composed all the music on these albums (with very few minor exceptions) and he also utilizes his vocals, which is the most criticized issue regarding this music. As much as these albums were successful on the US market, they were treated with disrespect and sheer detest by his European and Japanese fans, who accused him of commerciality. The problem was of course, that this music should have not been compared to or judged by the same criteria as his earlier output, which was completely different stylistically.
In retrospect this music still sounds great and lost nothing of its power and ingenuity, providing it is treated separately from Duke´s other output. The tunes are great, as are the performances, and one can´t resist the funky rhythms unless one is completely deaf or brain-dead. There are very few musicians, who display the same level of integrity and ingenuity as George Duke in everything they do over the years. He is the man and nobody can deny it!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979303423 (Barcode: 886979303423) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 - 1973 Released: 2011
To make things perfectly clear before we go any further, this Box Set includes music recorded by the first version of the seminal ensemble Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, which lasted for about a couple of years between 1971 and 1973 and released three albums on ColumbiaFind albums on this label. Subsequent versions of Mahavishnu Orchestra continued to release albums on Columbia, but those are not included here and will hopefully be released in the future as a separate Box Set.
British guitarist / composer John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist arrived at the epicenter of the revolutionary Jazz scene quite by chance, via his old friend bassist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and his first American employer drummer Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist, which eventually led to McLaughlin joining the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist group and playing a crucial role in creating the groundbreaking music Davis was forging at the time. Prompted by Davis, while still a part of his group, McLaughlin formed his first ensemble, which in retrospect turned out to be one of the most extraordinary Jazz-Rock Fusion ensembles, setting an example so powerful that now, over forty years later, it still reverberates and is being used as a definition of the genre.
Mahavishnu Orchestra was extraordinary in many ways. It brought together musicians from many different countries and cultural backgrounds: American violinist Jerry GoodmanFind albums by this artist, Czech keyboardist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, Irish bassist Rick LairdFind albums by this artist and Panamanian drummer Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist, all virtuosi on their respective instruments. Such aggregation of talent is of course beneficial for the music, but can prove to be strenuous as far as personal relationships are concerned. Also, as far as the musical direction was concerned, McLaughlin and the ensemble had to create their own environment, as they were walking on a path, which was previously undiscovered.
McLaughlin had complete freedom while with Davis, which enabled him to stretch out and play expanded solos without any harmonic or rhythmic restrictions. Mahavishnu Orchestra was completely opposite: precise and sharp like a razor blade, with everything clicking on a beat and often following a neck-breaking speed. It is evident McLaughlin struggled with this new framework initially, only to conquer it gloriously. He composed almost all the music the ensemble played, with just an occasional contribution by Hammer, Goodman and Laird.
After recording and releasing the first two albums ("The Inner Mounting FlameFind albums with this title" and "Birds Of FireFind albums with this title"), the group recorded a third studio album, which was scrapped and laid hidden in the vaults, only to be released twenty six years later as "The Lost Trident SessionsFind albums with this title". A live recording at NY Central Park, called "Between Nothingness & EternityFind albums with this title", became the group´s third and last album recorded by the first lineup.
This Box Set includes the four a.m. albums and a bonus CD, which comprises of previously unreleased additional material from the live recording, which became the third album. There is also one earlier live recording added as a bonus track on the first album.
Of course this music is so brilliant and so important, that recommending it any further is simply superfluous. It is an absolute classic and a timeless ingredient of music history, which should be an essential cornerstone of any music collection.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILLIE HOLIDAY ~ LADY DAY - THE COMPLETE BILLIE HOLIDAY ON COLUMBIA 1933-1944
SONY 886979303621 (Barcode: 886979303621) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1933 - 1944 Released: 2011
American singer / songwriter Billie HolidayFind albums by this artist is undoubtedly not only the most iconic female figure in the history of Jazz, but also a symbol of American history. Her tragic personal life, drug addiction and suffering caused by racial discrimination are a universal tale, which reflects the times she lived in. Musically, she is probably the greatest Jazz vocalist of all times and adding anything is simply superfluous.
This Grammy Award winning Box Set collects all the recordings Holiday made for the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label and its subsidiary labels during that twelve years period, which was her most stable musically and basically established her diva status. Just to make everything perfectly clear, all these tracks were originally released on 78s before the LP format was invented. Painstakingly remastered, researched and annotated, this Box Set presents a formidable piece of Jazz history, with very few parallels. Holiday returned to record for Columbia in the very last years of her life (1957-1958) but these recordings are not included here and await a separate Box Set.
On the recordings included here she is accompanied by superb gallery of Jazz musicians and bands, the absolute crème de la crème of the period. For listeners less acquainted with the earlier Jazz periods, this is simply a wonderful opportunity to enter that magnificent world. There are no weak moments or fillers here; everything is simply musical gold, every moment, every phrase and every sound.
As I already said, this is absolutely essential piece of music history and a copy of this should be (in one form or another) present in every cultural home on this planet; ´nuff said!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 10 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | STANLEY CLARKE ~ THE COMPLETE 1970S EPIC ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979312227 (Barcode: 886979312227) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 - 1979 Released: 2012
American bassist / composer / bandleader Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist is one of the iconic figures of the Jazz-Rock Fusion explosion, which swept the world in the late 1960s / early 1970s. His distinctive and virtuosic bass lines have set standards, which are followed to this very day, with very few bass players being able to play as technically perfect as he always did and even fewer to be as inventive, groundbreaking and innovative. Although primarily associated with Fusion and the electric bass guitar, Clarke always was (and still is) an exceptional acoustic bass player with a superb Jazz technique and sensitivity.
Clarke first came to prominence as a member of the first lineup of the legendary Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist´s ensemble Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist, where his bass lines shaped the music as significantly as Corea´s keyboard wizardry. Clarke stayed with the original band for several years and remained a Corea´s friend and collaborator in the decades that followed. In parallel to his work with Return To Forever, Clarke started a solo recording career, which produced some of Fusion´s and later also Funk´s greatest moments.
Following the release of his debut solo album on PolydorFind albums on this label, he switched to the NemperorFind albums on this label label (currently owned by SonyFind albums on this label) and later on to the EpicFind albums on this label label (a subsidiary of ColumbiaFind albums on this label). He recorded five albums for Nemperor between 1974 and 1979, the last of which was a live double LP. In the 1980s and early 1990s his albums were released on Epic. This Box Set includes all the five albums released on Nemperor and as a bonus also a live album recorded during Clarke´s band tours in 1976-1977, which was released only in 1991.
Of course the list of names of the musicians, who play alongside Clarke on these albums, reads like an encyclopedia of American music of that period. To mention just a few: keyboardists Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, George DukeFind albums by this artist, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, David SanciousFind albums by this artist and others, guitarists Bill ConnorsFind albums by this artist, Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and others, drummers Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist, Steve GaddFind albums by this artist, Lenny WhiteFind albums by this artist, Gerry BrownFind albums by this artist and others and a myriad of other musicians. Clarke composed almost every note played here, with very few exceptions, and the music is absolutely marvelous and ass-kicking, as it was at the time it was recorded.
Clarke was often criticized for utilizing his vocals on some of these albums, which of course was not one of his fortes, but since the vocals are relatively scarce and in retrospect really not that bad, that point of criticism id completely insignificant in view of the majestic content of the music contained herein.
Every bass player today, consciously or subconsciously, directly or indirectly is influenced one way or another by what Stanley Clarke played over the years, and this Box Set is a great way to celebrate his talent. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 7 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | DAVE BRUBECK ~ THE COLUMBIA STUDIO ALBUMS COLLECTION 1955-1966
SONY 886979388123 (Barcode: 886979388123) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1955 - 1966 Released: 2011
American Jazz pianist / composer Dave BrubeckFind albums by this artist and his quartet dominated the world piano quartet scene and in many respects the entire Jazz scene for the better part of two decades (the 1950s & 1960s), being the most popular and widely known Jazz ensemble, which won massive media coverage and even enjoyed commercial success with their recorded output, which is extremely rare for a Jazz act.
In retrospect it becomes clear that Brubeck and his quartet members: sublime saxophonist Paul DesmondFind albums by this artist, brilliant bassist Eugene WrightFind albums by this artist and extraordinary drummer Joe MorelloFind albums by this artist, created some of the most revolutionary Jazz music and advanced the Jazz Art Form by milestone after milestone. Brubeck´s amazing talent as a composer, his sensitivity as a player and above all his consistent drive to explore and try things never tried before resulted in some absolutely iconic Jazz tunes like the celebrated "Take Five" and numerous other compositions. Brubeck was always open to new ideas, including unusual time signatures, bringing those to the center of the Jazz exploration, which previously was almost entirely stuck in the 4/4 rhythmic pattern. He was also one of the pioneers of incorporating World Music influences into his compositions, as well as modern Classical Music elements. Of course he could also write beautiful melodies, which captured the listener´s ear and sounded incredibly "easy" even if they were quite complex musically.
Saxophonist Paul Desmond, who played with Brubeck since the 1940s, had one of the most distinctive sounds ever produced in Jazz, which was immediately recognizable and absolutely unique. Combining a natural "sweetness" with incredible sensitivity and technique, Desmond´s could captivate the listeners with his saxophone like the Pied Piper of Hamelin, being simply irresistible. He was Brubeck´s perfect partner, balancing his Cool Jazz approach with the incredible warmth of his playing. Bassist Eugene Wright (the only Afro-American in the quartet) was the absolute anchor of the quartet´s music, which often was going in different directions, both rhythmically and melodically, all at once. His tone and stability were simply second to none. Drummer Joe Morello was another unique ingredient of this magical quartet and probably the only player able to play all those intricate time signatures with unbelievable precision and virtuosity. His solo spots were the first of their kind and for the first time brought the drummer to the center of the listener´s attention. A mighty four they were indeed!
Following the recording of several albums for small East Coast labels, Brubeck and his quartet started their stint with the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label, which lasted for twelve years and produced nineteen studio albums, all of which are included in this incredible Box Set. The numerous live recordings will hopefully be collected as well and released in the form of another Box Set in the future. The body of work and the sheer genius included herein are simply worth their weight in gold. Some of the most iconic music produced in the US, Jazz and beyond, is contained in this box, which is like the proverbial treasure chest. I can´t imagine it not being a part of any serious music collection. Essential stuff!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 19 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | DUKE ELLINGTON ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA STUDIO ALBUMS COLLECTION 1951-1958
SONY 886979388826 (Barcode: 886979388826) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1951 - 1958 Released: 2012
American pianist / composer / bandleader Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist is universally acclaimed as one of the most pivotal figures not only in Jazz but in the 20th Century Culture in general. Ellington was the most important Jazz composer, with over a thousand compositions to his credit. His incredibly fruitful imagination and a prophetic vision, in addition to his compositional skills, easily equivalent to those of contemporary Classical composers, made him a unique phenomenon among his peers, unparalleled and masterful. But he was also a superb pianist and a brilliant arranger as well as phenomenal bandleader. The Duke Ellington OrchestraFind albums by this artist was a symbol of Jazz for over five decades, starting in the 1920s during the Harlem Renaissance and until his death in 1974.
The orchestras (Big Bands) led by Ellington were famous for their incredible precision and virtuosic skills and always comprised of the absolute crème de la crème of the American Jazz scene. The list of the band members reads like a who´s who of the 20th Century American Jazz. For Ellington the composer the existence of such a highly skilled orchestra was the only vehicle capable of performing his beautifully crafted but also often quite complex and devilishly clever music.
This incredible Box Set includes all his recordings for the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label, recorded in the 1950s and covering this decade of his lifetime, which is often considered as the most artistically fertile in his entire career. It also covers the period of the great change in the Ellington´s orchestra, which was relatively stable in the preceding decade and a half and was about to be rejuvenated both personally and stylistically. With the departure of players like drummer Sonny GreerFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Johnny HodgesFind albums by this artist or trombonist Lawrence BrownFind albums by this artist, Ellington infused the orchestra with "fresh blood" in the form of drummer Louis BellsonFind albums by this artist (and later Sam WoodyardFind albums by this artist), saxophonist Paul GonsalvesFind albums by this artist, clarinetist Jimmy HamiltonFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Clark TerryFind albums by this artist and others, which resulted in a much more invigorated and up-to-date overall sound and vigor.
The music herein includes some of Ellington´s most powerful and aesthetically fulfilling work, both short pieces and extended suites. It shows Ellington´s respect of the sources of Jazz, including Blues and Gospel on one hand, and his open-mindedness towards modern Classical music, all of which are the ingredients of his masterly compositions. Some of the music includes vocals, performed by Mahalia JacksonFind albums by this artist and others. There is no doubt than this is some of the best and most important music 20th Century bequeathed to future generations. One can only hope those future generations will keep this eternal flame alive with their continuous love and admiration.
Remastered and expanded with a plethora of bonus tracks, this Box Set should become an absolutely essential cornerstone of any serious music collection, Jazz or otherwise. This is Culture encapsulated, intense and immortal, a beacon of light in the darkness of ignorance, which is slowly engulfing us all.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 9 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL DESMOND ~ THE COMPLETE RCA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979394124 (Barcode: 886979394124) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1961 - 1965 Released: 2011
Although primarily known as a member of the Dave BrubeckFind albums by this artist quartet, the most popular Jazz ensemble on the scene in the 1950s and up to mid-1960s, saxophonist / composer Paul DesmondFind albums by this artist made also a serious contribution to the Jazz art form as a leader, playing and recording music in parallel to his work with Brubeck and after the legendary quartet folded.
In order to avoid any confusion, comparison and legal entanglements he signed with the RCAFind albums on this label label (the Brubeck quartet recorded for ColumbiaFind albums on this label), and his quartets would be piano-less and as a result guitar-based. He recorded six wonderful albums for RCA between 1961 and 1965 and all of them feature his close friend and musical soul-mate, guitarist Jim HallFind albums by this artist and drummer Connie KayFind albums by this artist (member of the Modern Jazz QuartetFind albums by this artist). Several different bassists participated in these recordings, including Eugene WrightFind albums by this artist from Brubeck´s quartet, Percy HeathFind albums by this artist (also a member of the Modern Jazz Quartet), Gene ChericoFind albums by this artist and others. The last of the RCA albums presents the collaboration between Desmond and the superb baritone saxophonist Gerry MulliganFind albums by this artist, another great icon of Cool Jazz.
Desmond´s completely unique sound, style and sensibility are fully exposed on these recordings. His incredible ability to present a sweet melody without turning it into sugary pastiche is simply unparalleled. Of course his technique and complete command of his instrument are clearly noticeable and are a classic example of elegance and aesthetics. His dialogue with Jim Hall is also quite remarkable and one of the most intimate cooperation captured on record.
This Box Set includes all the six albums Desmond recorded for the RCA label, remastered and expanded with numerous bonus tracks and accompanied by informative liner notes. It is definitely something no serious Jazz connoisseur can ignore and a proud addition to any serious music collection. Although less popular than many other Jazz recordings, this music easily holds the ground in comparison to anything else recorded at the time. Simply brilliant!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | WYNTON MARSALIS ~ SWINGING INTO THE 21ST
SONY 886979442825 (Barcode: 886979442825) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1990 - 2001 Released: 2011
This extraordinary Box Set presents the celebration of music by American trumpeter / composer / arranger / bandleader Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist and his record label ColumbiaFind albums on this label, organized in 1999 (the last year of the 20th Century) to celebrate the turn of the Century as well as the 20th Anniversary of Marsalis as a Columbia recording artist. The scope of this project was absolutely unprecedented and resulted in the release of nine albums featuring the music of Marsalis and his various bands as well as his orchestral and ballet projects to be released that year, one of which was a seven CDs Box Set of live recordings at the Village Vanguard ("Live At The Village VanguardFind albums with this title"). All these nine albums are present here, with the Box Set represented by a "best of" single CD issue ("Selections From The Village Vanguard BoxFind albums with this title"). In addition the box also includes the "All RiseFind albums with this title" project, which was written and performed in 1999 as the culmination of that year´s work, but was recorded only a couple of years later. This incredible volume of music, ranging from Jazz to Jazz-Classical Fusion, contemporary Classical, Gospel and Chamber music, all brilliantly written and performed, is honestly quite overwhelming. Marsalis has been criticized (often quite viciously), mostly unjustly, by fellow musicians, Jazz critics and other people who think they know what they are talking about, but this Box Set just puts everything in the right proportion. Even if Marsalis is not always the nicest person in the room, outspoken and opinionated, full of himself and condescending, all that is completely meaningless in view of his talent, his music and his dedication to the Jazz Art Form. A person capable of writing and performing such an immense volume of music, which is absolutely brilliant from start to finish, deserves to enjoy some vices, especially in view of the subjectivity as to what constitutes a vice and what doesn´t. A music lover will find much enjoyment from the contents of these eleven CDs, varied in style and scope but consistently intelligent, challenging and exploding with ideas. The players, singers, Jazz and Classical orchestras, choirs and everybody else involved in these recordings are all absolutely first class, as is the music, the sound and most importantly the spirit of the music. Marsalis earned his statue not because he´s a smart dresser but because he is a hard working, extremely talented and dedicated Artist – regardless of what some people might think or say. This Box Set is a testimony of how Jazz developed in the first 100 years of its history – from humble beginnings to lofty achievements. This is an essential document of Jazz music, which should be cherished and proudly appear on any serious music connoisseur´s shelf.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 11 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | THELONIOUS MONK ~ COMPLETE COLUMBIA STUDIO ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979576827 (Barcode: 886979576827) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1962 - 1968 Released: 2012
Although most often associated with the Bebop genre, American pianist / composer Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist was in fact one of the very few Jazz icons, that managed to create a completely personal style, unlike any another before or after. His playing and his compositions were absolutely outrageous, unconventional and plainly weird. Strange chord changes, aggressive attack, long out of nowhere glissandos and those unexpected pauses in the most unexpected places created a musical experience, which logically made no sense whatsoever but in practice sounded most wonderfully. As many other human geniuses, he is therefore often suspected of being an alien stranded on our pitiful planet.
Monk started to record in the mid-1940s as part of the Bebop explosion and over the years worked with Blue NoteFind albums on this label, PrestigeFind albums on this label and RiversideFind albums on this label labels, but his last, longest and most stable and productive period was spent with ColumbiaFind albums on this label records in the 1960s, when these albums were originally recorded. These are the quartet recordings, made with his quartet, which lasted for eleven years and was his preferential vehicle. It included the saxophonist Charlie RouseFind albums by this artist, who was the quartet´s member for that entire duration, bassist John OreFind albums by this artist and later Butch WarrenFind albums by this artist and Larry GalesFind albums by this artist and drummer Frankie DunlopFind albums by this artist and later Ben RileyFind albums by this artist.
The music on these albums is a mixture of Monk originals (the majority of the material), some of which were previously recorded on other labels, and his treatment of standards, which of course are often quite remote from the origin. The playing is absolutely stunning, not only by Monk but also by Rouse, who surely deserves the title of the most underrated saxophonist in Jazz history. The quartet format was best serving Monk´s idiosyncratic style and manner, but he also recorded in other formats, like piano solo. Some of his remarkable live performances were also released on Columbia and hopefully all that material will be released in the future as part of the Box Set series.
These six albums, remastered and expanded with numerous bonus tracks and accompanied by informative liner notes constitute some of the most important Jazz music ever recorded, which gets better with time and penetrates deeper every time it is listened to. There is no way and serious Jazz buff can afford not having this in his collection; that would be simply sacrilegious.
And next time you open your door to a small green humanoid with a couple of antennas on his head, just play him some Monk; he´ll surely dig it!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve 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 |
  | THELONIOUS MONK ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA LIVE ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979958029 (Barcode: 886979958029) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1963 - 1969 Released: 2015
This phenomenal Box Set includes all the live albums recorded by the iconic Jazz Master, pianist / composer Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist, and released on ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records. It comprises of five 2CD sets, with each of the sets presenting complete / expanded versions of albums, which originally included only parts of the recorded concerts and often were spread over more than one album. This set finally sorts out all the confusion about these recordings and puts things in their correct order and placement, and therefore is a truly momentous documentation of Monk´s work.
Most of this amazing music was recorded within just two years, namely in 1963 and 1964, with just a few additional tracks recorded live at various locations between 1965 and 1969, which were originally part of the soundtrack of the documentary movie "Thelonious Monk: Straight No Chaser". Most of the music was recorded in a quartet setting with saxophonist Charlie RouseFind albums by this artist, bassist Butch WarrenFind albums by this artist and drummer Frankie DunlopFind albums by this artist (1963) or bassist Larry GalesFind albums by this artist and drummer Ben RileyFind albums by this artist (1964), with just one set recorded by a Big Band (well actually a tentet) with the 1963 quartet plus trumpeters Thad JonesFind albums by this artist and Nick TravisFind albums by this artist and saxophonists Eddie BertFind albums by this artist, Steve LacyFind albums by this artist, Phil WoodsFind albums by this artist and Gene AllenFind albums by this artist – a dreamy lineup by any respect.
Considering the fact that this music was recorded basically within a very concise period of time, the basic material, i.e. the compositions used, is quite repetitive and some compositions are repeated several times (for example "Epistrophy" is performed thirteen times), which might have been a drawback but in fact turns out to be a blessing which allows us plainly to witness the Monk genius, with each and every version of the tune being different from every other version. The meaning of improvisation and the limitless power of the human mind are reflected within these sounds and captured for posterity.
Overall this Box Set contains so much absolutely brilliant music that it weight could be measured in pure gold. There are no dull moments herein whatsoever and every note tells the story of Jazz and the prodigious talent of the Monk phenomenon, which knows no equals. It is a Bible of music, which should be studied by all those who call themselves Jazz musicians, and revered by Jazz fans of all ages. Hopefully this Box Set will expose this brilliant music to new generations of listeners the world over.
Obviously this Box Set should become an essential part of every serious music collection, as it is eternal and timeless and will stay so as long as music matters.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: 07/02/2016 | CD 10 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BESSIE SMITH ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA RECORDINGS
SONY 887254031024 (Barcode: 887254031024) ~ USA ~ Blues
Recorded: 1923 - 1933 Released: 2012
This is a monumental collection of the material recorded by American vocalist Bessie SmithFind albums by this artist for the ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records, spanning over ten years and presenting her at the peak of her career, accompanied by the best instrumentalist available at the time. Although popularly known as the Empress of the Blues, she sang material which bordered between the Blues and the rapidly developing Jazz and cooperated with early Jazz titans like pianists Fletcher HendersonFind albums by this artist and Clarence WilliamsFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Louis ArmstrongFind albums by this artist and many others.
There is no Jazz vocalist in the world today, who can claim not being influenced by Bessie Smith´s recordings and her revolutionary contribution to the art of singing, regardless of the genre. She was the pioneer and the model that all Jazz vocalists tried to follow, even when not admitting it openly. Hearing these recordings clearly shows how she progressed over time, taking bold steps into improvised vocal parts in addition to covering the basic melody, which no other vocalist tried before her. Her unique power of expression and the theatrical timbre of her voice were simply completely inimitable.
She also wrote many of the songs that she performs here, which makes her the first female singer / songwriter, who managed to achieve a legendary status during her lifetime. Her life and career was cut tragically short by a car accident and the latest recordings included in this Box Set are her last.
Remastered and mini-sleeved, this Box Set is an excellent tribute to a great Afro-American legend, who should not be forgotten and who still has so much to offer today. This is an essential addition to any serious music collection.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 10 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ART BLAKEY ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA AND RCA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 887254359920 (Barcode: 887254359920) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1956 - 1959 Released: 2015
This superb Box Set includes all the albums by the seminal American Jazz drummer and pioneer of the Hard Bop genre Art BlakeyFind albums by this artist, released by the ColumbiaFind albums on this label and RCAFind albums on this label labels. These recordings span just a short period of four years, between 1956 and 1959, but they include some of the archetypical Jazz of the 1950s and document the birth of the Hard Bop era.
Art Blakey and his Jazz MessengersFind albums by this artist were one of the most dominant Jazz ensembles for decades and featured some of the top American Jazz players at the time, the list of which reads like a who´s who of American Jazz: trumpeters Donald ByrdFind albums by this artist, Lee MorganFind albums by this artist and Bill HardmanFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Hank MobleyFind albums by this artist, Jackie McLeanFind albums by this artist, Ira SullivanFind albums by this artist, Johnny GriffinFind albums by this artist and Benny GolsonFind albums by this artist and pianists Horace SilverFind albums by this artist, Sam DockeryFind albums by this artist, Ray BryantFind albums by this artist and Wynton KellyFind albums by this artist all play on these albums as do many other first rate players.
Blakey was one of the first American Jazz musicians, who were interested in African music, looking for sources of American Jazz. He incorporated African rhythms and techniques into the way he played, which created a unique and almost immediately recognizable drumming style. The Jazz Messengers served for many years and until Blakey´s death in 1990 as one of the most important cradles of young American Jazz musicians and very many top players who arrived on the scene were groomed as members of the Messengers, including such luminaries as Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist and literally dozens of others.
Although this music is quite familiar to all serious Jazz fans, it is always great to hear it as played by the original musicians who "invented" it in the first place rather than listen to the countless imitations recorded over and over again since. The last three CDs in this Box Set include live recordings by Blakey and Jazz Messengers recorded in Paris, which were originally released only on French RCA and therefore are much less known.
In retrospect this music still sounds fresh and sparkling today, as if absolutely untouched by time, completely justifying its classic status. Of course this is also an essential lesson in Jazz history and tradition, and as such an absolutely indispensable part of any serious record collection. Its availability will perhaps lead the young generation of Jazz players to listen to the source of the genesis of Modern Jazz.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: 07/01/2016 | CD 8 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | AL KOOPER ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS
SONY 888750990723 (Barcode: 888750990723) ~ USA ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 1968 - 1972 Released: 2015
This Box Set collects five of the six albums recorded by iconic American singer / songwriter / bandleader / producer Al KooperFind albums by this artist and released between 1968 and 1973 on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label. They are: his debut solo album "I Stand AloneFind albums with this title", the second "You Never Know Who Your Friends AreFind albums with this title", the third "Easy Does ItFind albums with this title", the fourth "New York City (You`re A Woman)Find albums with this title" and the sixth "Naked SongsFind albums with this title". His fifth album "A Possible Projection Of The Future / Childhood`s EndFind albums with this title" remains sadly in its obscurity.
It is hard to imagine the shape of American music without Al Kooper, starting from his contribution to Bob DylanFind albums by this artist´s revolutionary early electric era which led to the inception of Rock, via the initiation of Brass Jazz-Rock Fusion with Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, Southern Rock with Lynyrd SkynyrdFind albums by this artist and hundreds of albums he either played on or produced. His exceptional gift for crafting memorable melodies, writing elaborate orchestral arrangements and singing his heart out; all those made him one of the absolute geniuses of the American popular music in the 20th Century.
His solo albums are all brilliant collections of superb songs, performed with elegance and zest, full of Kooper´s unique genius. The fact that it took over forty years for these albums to make it to CD, partly for the first time ever, is a sad, sad reminder of our era, where music understanding and appreciation is almost completely lost, giving place to stupidity and ignorance, fads and hypes.
I urge everybody to give those five albums a serious listen and discover their beauty, depth and above all musical genius. This is some of the best American music made during the Golden Decade, and the fact that it remains forgotten is a crying shame.
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 Essential 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 |
  | MICHAL URBANIAK ~ SMILES AHEAD
UBX 1018 (Barcode: 5099901531725) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1976 - 1977 Released: 2012
This is a reissue of the first (of two) album by Polish Jazz violinist / composer Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist released on the legendary German MPSFind albums on this label label, which was produced by my Friend and Mentor Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, who had a deep understanding and love for Polish Jazz and who was instrumental in spreading the fame of Polish Jazz beyond the Iron Curtain. Of the eight tracks on this album, six were recorded at the famous Zuckerfabrik studio in Stuttgart / Germany in November of 1976 with vocalist (and Urbaniak´s wife at the time) Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Harold WilliamsFind albums by this artist, bassist Robert BunnFind albums by this artist and drummer Woody TheusFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Transcending SonshipFind albums by this artist). Two additional tracks were recorded in NY in January of 1977, one of which was a duo with Urbaniak and Emmet ChapmanFind albums by this artist, the inventor of the Chapman stick, and the other was recorded by the same team that recorded the "Body EnglishFind albums with this title" album (i.e. Urbaniak, Dudziak, Williams, guitarist Joe CaroFind albums by this artist, bassist Basil FearringtonFind albums by this artist and drummer Steve JordanFind albums by this artist). Urbaniak composed or co-composed four of the pieces, Dudziak two and Williams and Bunn one each.
Under Berendt´s supervision, the album moves back into the most experimental and musically advanced aura of Urbaniak´s exploration of Jazz-Rock Fusion, Electronic and World Music influences, leaving somewhat aside the American Funk and Groove influences, which stylistically resembles the early recordings with ConstellationFind albums by this artist and the three ColumbiaFind albums on this label albums. Berendt, who was a great admirer of Urbaniak´s vocal wizardry, managed to bring back her contribution to the music, giving her an equally prominent role in the proceedings, with two superb unaccompanied solo pieces, a duo with Urbaniak and a strong vocal presence on the rest of the tracks, which overall played a decisive part in the album´s final result. The duo track with Chapman proves Urbaniak´s deep interest in innovation and electronic music development.
In retrospect this is surely one of the strongest Urbaniak´s recordings and a quintessential piece of Fusion history, which still remains unparalleled four decades later. The unique amalgam of musical influences combined with virtuosi performances and a freedom of expression rarely found in today´s music.
For Urbaniak and Polish Jazz fans this is an absolute must of course, but Fusion connoisseurs the world over should be aware of the fact that their record collection is truly incomplete without this album in their possession.
| | Updated: 29/12/2023Posted: 13/09/2019 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAL URBANIAK ~ INACTIN
UBX 1020 (Barcode: 888174593128) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2014
This is a reissue of the second album recorded for the small German label SpiegeleiFind albums on this label by the ensemble headed by Polish Jazz saxophonist / violinist / composer Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist. The ensemble included also Urbaniak´s wife at the time, vocalist Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist, bassist Roman DylagFind albums by this artist, drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist and Yugoslav percussionist Branislav KovacevFind albums by this artist. The album includes seven tracks, all composed by Urbaniak.
This album has several similarities to the live album Urbaniak and his ensemble recorded in 1973 in Poland, released as part of the legendary Polish Jazz series (Vol. 36) and entitled "In ConcertFind albums with this title", which in retrospect was one of Polish Jazz most significant and pivotal recordings and a giant milestone towards the discovery of Jazz-Rock Fusion on the local scene. Those two albums share several of the compositions and almost identical core lineup and most importantly the unique stylistic approach, which mixed Jazz, Rock, Electronics and Free Jazz in a way never previously attempted.
The Spiegelei contact, which also produced the album "Paratyphus BFind albums with this title" recorded a year earlier with the same lineup except for Pawel JarzebskFind albums by this artisti on bass, happened as a result of the success Urbaniak achieved in Europe touring there extensively in the early 1970s, which culminated with his appearance at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1971 and winning there a first prize as instrumentalist, at the time still playing the saxophone. The switch to violin, which was Urbaniak´s original instrument, changed his career dramatically and marked the new period in his career. The entire period marks a turbulent time for Urbaniak and Dudziak, with their dramatic emigration to USA soon after.
The music Urbaniak´s group created was definitely one of the most innovative and adventurous experiments done at the time, surely by any musicians originating from behind the Iron Curtain. The freedom of expression, which originated in the Free Jazz, mixed with the use of electric instruments and electronic voice enhancements, emerged as some of the most exciting sounds then, and to same extent even today, almost four decades later. Urbaniak used Polish folk motifs and uneven meters to make things even more exciting and Dudziak´s visionary usage of the human voice was eons ahead of its time.
In retrospect the two Spiegelei albums and the three albums Urbaniak recorded for ColumbiaFind albums on this label in the USA during the years immediately after his arrival there remain to this very day as his strongest statements, with the body of work created by him and his groups in the early 1970s being unsurpassed.
The sonic quality of this album is rather Lo-Fi in today´s standards and it’s a pity that a proper remastering effort was not attempted. The album´s liner notes are pretty sketchy and such significant reissue surely deserves much better. Nevertheless this is an iconic piece of music and as such deserves to be listened to today, after being unavailable for a scandalously long period of time.
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAL URBANIAK ~ ATMA
UBX 1022 (Barcode: 884502405217) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2014
This is a reissue of the second US album by Polish Jazz violinist / composer Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, released originally on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label in 1974. It was recorded by the same group of Polish musicians, who played with Urbaniak since several years: his wife at the time, vocalist Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, bassist Pawel JarzebskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. American percussionist Ray MantillaFind albums by this artist also took part in the recording. The album presents ten tracks, all composed by Urbaniak, including the three parts suite that gave the album its title.
The music continues the development that Urbaniak presented on his recordings since the early 1970s, creating a unique Fusion of Jazz and Ethnic elements, mostly sourced from Polish Folklore. The distinctive instrumentation and the use of the idiosyncratic explosive vocals by Dudziak resulted in one of the most advanced Fusion albums of all times, which remains completely original and groundbreaking to this very day.
Although Urbaniak authored all the music there is no doubt that Dudziak added a crucial element to the final result. Her vocal pyrotechnics are absolutely stunning and without those the music would have never reached the expressive power it offers. Her solo vocals / electronics track reveals her imaginative abilities, which were fully exposed on her solo album "Newborn LightFind albums with this title" recorded in 1972 and later also released in US on Columbia.
There is no doubt that this music was light years ahead of its time, and being deeply based in European Jazz experimentation, which at the time of its release was almost completely misunderstood in the US, resulted in commercial failure on the US market, despite its superb musical achievement. In retrospect this album was undoubtedly the absolute peak of Urbaniak´s career, especially as a composer and pioneer of innovative music exploration. All three of the Urbaniak´s Columbia albums ("FusionFind albums with this title", "AtmaFind albums with this title" and "Fusion IIIFind albums with this title") can be combined as one of the most artistically successful album triptychs in Jazz / Fusion history.
This is an absolute must to all Fusion fans the world over, now more than ever, as the genre proved to run out of steam decades ago and absolutely nothing comes even close to the quality and the electrifying powers of the music included here. Grab it as long as you can get hold of a copy! Beyond essential!
| | Updated: 08/09/2019Posted: 08/09/2019 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAYNARD FERGUSON ~ M. F. HORN 3 / M. F. HORN 4 & 5 - LIVE AT JIMMY`S
VOCALION 8429 (Barcode: 765387842925) ~ CANADA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2006
Following an almost five years long exile in the UK, trumpeter / bandleader Maynard FergusonFind albums by this artist returned to the US in 1973. His new producer for ColumbiaFind albums on this label was no other than Teo MaceroFind albums by this artist, famous for his long association with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist.
The album "M. F. Horn 3Find albums with this title" was still recorded mostly in UK and featured the same incredible big band that played with Ferguson on "M. f. HornFind albums with this title" and "M. F. Horn 2Find albums with this title" and only the finishing touches were done in NY. Stylistically the album is also quite similar to its predecessor, presenting powerful version of Jazz-Rock Fusion with brass, brilliantly arranged and splendidly executed.
The next album, a double recorded live in NY, was to be his ultimate recording. Fronting a great big band, which included several European players who played on his previous albums, as well as new American players, Ferguson plays brilliantly, pushing the band to unbelievable heights. The material selected for the recording is more mainstream Jazz than the distinctive Jazz-Rock Fusion predecessors, but the high energy and dominant rhythm section create a special blend, which is quite different from traditional American big band music.
This was Ferguson’s finest hour and his future attempts to capture wider audiences by performing covers of popular hits were sadly less memorable. This stuff is it – sheer genius at work and a must for any big band enthusiast.
| | Updated: 17/04/2020Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERBIE HANCOCK ~ FAT ALBERT ROTUNDA
WARNER BROS. 47540 (Barcode: 093624754022) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2001
Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist’s solo career (apart from his work done with his Mentor Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, with whom he stayed for over five years as the member of the legendary second quintet) produced an overwhelmingly diverse body of work which positions him as one of the Giants of 20th Century music. After recording a series of excellent and immensely influential albums on the Blue NoteFind albums on this label label in the 1960’s, Hancock switched to Warner Bros.Find albums on this label where he recorded just three albums, this one being the first of these.
Recorded shortly after Hancock left the Miles Davis group, it contains music he wrote for a TV series, rearranged for a jazz sextet. The funky approach was Hancock’s first attempt to play around with funk (influenced among others by the revolutionary work done with the genre at that time by Sly & The Family StoneFind albums by this artist). This started a love affair that would be extensively developed a few years later after Hancock switched labels again, this time to ColumbiaFind albums on this label. He plays the Fender Rhodes electric piano exclusively leaving the acoustic piano aside for a few years until the formation of the V.S.O.P.Find albums by this artist quintet. The funky arrangements are extremely clever and exquisitely performed by the sextet, which includes Joe HendersonFind albums by this artist on flute and sax, Johnny ColesFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Garnet BrownFind albums by this artist on trombone, Buster WilliamsFind albums by this artist on bass and Albert HeathFind albums by this artist on drums. The music sounds beautifully fresh and vibrant today, loosing nothing of its original charm and magic. A timeless classic!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERBIE HANCOCK ~ MWANDISHI
WARNER BROS. 47541 (Barcode: 093624754121) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2001
Following his departure from the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist quintet, Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist established his own sextet, which would serve as his musical vehicle in the next step of his explorations. The sextet included Eddie HendersonFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Benny MaupinFind albums by this artist on bass clarinet and flute, Julian PriesterFind albums by this artist on trombone, Buster WilliamsFind albums by this artist on bass and Billy HartFind albums by this artist on drums.
Hancock recorded three revolutionary and visionary albums with this group, before changing his chameleon-like path again, this time into funk. These three albums were MwandishiFind albums with this title and CrossingsFind albums with this title released on Warner Bros.Find albums on this label and his ColumbiaFind albums on this label debut SextantFind albums by this artist. The extraordinary music present on these albums is the next step in the future of Jazz, the creation of a multi-genre Fusion, which “genetically spliced” Jazz with Rock, Funk and World Music, creating a new musical universe.
In fact one should see these recordings in the right perspective, comparing it to the music Miles Davis was creating (from Bitches BrewFind albums with this title onward) and his disciples: John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist with Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist and Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist with Weather ReportFind albums by this artist and Herbie Hancock with his sextet. All this music (created roughly at the same time) falls beautifully into place supplementing the big picture. Of course one should always credit it as much to its wonderfully talented creators as to their Mentor Miles Davis.
The music on Mwandishi is beautifully atmospheric. The unusually (for Jazz) long tracks (one over 21 minutes and the two others over 10 minutes long) leave plenty of space for group improvisation and generous solo space for all the musicians. Hancock sticks to the electric piano, by now mastering the instrument to perfection. He composed two of the tracks and Priester the remaining one. A few guest musicians, including SantanaFind albums by this artist’s percussionist Jose AreasFind albums by this artist and drummer Leon ChanclerFind albums by this artist contribute their input. This music can be heard time after time, revealing new emotions and hidden treasures every time. An essential classic!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERBIE HANCOCK ~ CROSSINGS
WARNER BROS. 47542 (Barcode: 093624754220) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2001
CrossingsFind albums with this title was Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist’s last album for Warner Bros.Find albums on this label and the 2nd part of his sextet album trilogy, which started with MwandishiFind albums with this title and continued with SextantFind albums with this title after Hancock switched labels to ColumbiaFind albums on this label. The sextet’s lineup (Eddie HendersonFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Benny MaupinFind albums by this artist on bass clarinet and flute, Julian PriesterFind albums by this artist on trombone, Buster WilliamsFind albums by this artist on bass and Billy HartFind albums by this artist on drums) remained steady for all three albums, which of course contributed to the phenomenal level of interplay they were able to achieve.
Musically the album continues the path set by its predecessor, with long (this time the longest track is almost 25 minutes long) atmospheric compositions which allow a lot of space for collective and individual improvisations. Hancock composed the central piece and Maupin the two additional tunes. Hancock, who was always extremely aware of the latest developments on the music scene as well as open-minded, invited the electronic music pioneer Patrick GleasonFind albums by this artist to play the Moog synthesizer on this album, which added a new dimension to the music, which sounds even more contemplative and spiritual. The resulting sound vistas are truly amazing.
This is visionary music in every respect, touching the listener on every plane of awareness – esthetic, emotional and intellectual. Another essential classic!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ADAM MAKOWICZ ~ UNIT (POLISH JAZZ VOL. 35)
WARNER MUSIC POLAND 190296509773 (Barcode: 190296509773) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2022
This is a reissue / remaster of the debut album as a leader by the Polish Jazz pianist / composer Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded in a duo setting with drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist and presents ten tracks, eight of which are original compositions by Makowicz, one is co-composed with Bartkowski and one is a standard.
At the time the album was recorded both Makowicz and Bartkowski were members of the group led by Polish Jazz violinist / composer Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, which also included Urbaniak’s wife, vocalist Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist. Makowicz and Dudziak recorded, just four months before this album was recorded, the legendary duo album “Newborn LightFind albums with this title”, which was later also released in the US by ColumbiaFind albums on this label, paving Makowicz career across the pond, where he moved in 1977, first to NY and later to Toronto. Makowicz is the only Polish Jazz musician, who managed to establish a significant career in the US, although many others tried to do so over the years.
Makowicz was always deeply rooted in the American Jazz tradition and his music stayed mostly within the mainstream idiom, emphasizing the melodic approach. His stint with Urbaniak was, in retrospect, the most adventurous period of his career. A piano / drums duo was quite an innovative and daring idea at the time, and remains a rare bird to this very days, with just a few recordings capturing such a cooperation. There is no doubt that in this case the stars were smiling upon these two musicians, and the music they recorded still sounds innovative and interesting, despite the five decades that passed since. With Bartkowski celebrating his 80th Birthday just a couple of days ago and both of them still alive and playing music, this reissue is a nice reminder of their early work.
Overall, as all the albums in the Polish Jazz series, this is an important document of the development of the genre against all odds. A great example of the “Art of the Duo” idiom and definitely an album worthy of honorable position in every serious Jazz collection, certainly a must for Polish Jazz enthusiasts.
Side Note
The iconic "Polish Jazz" series of recordings, originally released between 1965 and 1989 by the Polish state owned record company Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label, which used the MuzaFind albums on this label label as its moniker, consists of seventy six LP albums. It presents the history of Polish Jazz recordings during that period, which includes some of the most important Polish / European modern Jazz milestones and reflects the extraordinary development of Jazz music behind the Iron Curtain. It is one of the most important historic documents of Polish Music and of course Polish Culture in general.
The series had an eminent logo designed by Roslaw Szaybo and the albums were numbered sequentially from Vol.1 to Vol.76 accordingly. The album's artwork was wonderfully stylish and modernist, featuring the brilliant photographs and characteristic design by the legendary Polish Artist Marek Karewicz.
Stylistically the series presented all Jazz genres, from Traditional Jazz to Avant-Garde / Free Jazz, which was extraordinarily liberal considering the cultural censorship imposed by the Socialist Regime. It suffered from some inconsistency, as far as the musical quality and aesthetics were concerned, as well as the internal "politics" of the Polish Jazz scene at the time, but in retrospect it achieved a spectacular overall result, unparalleled as far as consistently documenting a national Jazz scene is concerned.
After the Polskie Nagrania catalogue was bought by Warner Music PolandFind albums on this label, the new owner started a reissue process of the Polish Jazz series, carefully remastered, repackaged and including extensive liner notes, which keeps the artwork as close to the original design as possible. So far forty four volumes of the original series were reissued.
In 2016 Warner Music Poland decided to continue the original series by releasing new contemporary Polish Jazz recordings under the same format and even to continue the sequential numbering starting with Vol.77 – a decision I personally consider almost sacrilegious. Some things are simply untouchable, and the "Polish Jazz" series is surely one of those things. If Warner Music Poland wants to produce Jazz albums, which is always more than welcome, they could have started a new series, under a new title, rather than exploiting the reputation of the historic series.
As a result, some artist whose albums are released as part of the new series might be led to expect instant gratification, fame and stardom, just for being an artificial part of a prestigious past, which of course is as bogus as it is sad.
| | Updated: 23/04/2023Posted: 21/04/2023 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BLOOD, SWEAT & TEARS ~ NEW BLOOD
WOUNDED BIRD 1780 (Barcode: 664140178021) ~ USA ~ Brass Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2005
5th album by US Jazz-Rock icons Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, which marks the departure of lead singer David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist (replaced by Jerry FisherFind albums by this artist) and a period of frequent personnel changes in the group. In spite of the negative (to say the least) critics and dwindling sales, BS&T were till a superb group, which was completely unparalleled in their ability to mix rock rhythms with intricate jazzy arrangements and deliver time after time some uplifting and spirited performances. Fisher handles the vocals very well and although his vocal abilities lack the magic of David’s timbre, he handles the songs with taste and feeling. Swedish guitarist Georg WadeniusFind albums by this artist adds a rockier dimension and the brass players kick ass as usual. Call me a sucker, but I just love this stuff. Since ColumbiaFind albums on this label lacked the brains (and balls) to reissue this stuff, I am grateful to Wounded BirdFind albums on this label for bringing this superb music back to life and circulation. It has not dated a bit and still gives me the thrills, and I hope others can rejoice as well.
| | Updated: 18/04/2020Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAL URBANIAK ~ FUSION III
WOUNDED BIRD 3542 (Barcode: 664140354227) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2012
This is a reissue of the third (and last) US album by Polish Jazz violinist / composer Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, released originally on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label in 1975. In retrospect it is also one of the best Fusion albums ever recorded on this planet. Urbaniak, a veteran of the Polish Jazz scene, first came to prominence as the member of the legendary groups led by the Godfather of Polish Jazz, pianist / composer Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist. While with Komeda, Urbaniak played the saxophone and switched to violin only after founding his own group in the late 1960s, when he also changed his musical direction from Modern / Free Jazz to Fusion, inspired by the groundbreaking innovations created at the time by Miles DavisFind albums by this artist.
In his group he included his wife, the extraordinary singer Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist and together they quickly developed a completely unique type of Fusion, which was light years ahead of anything else happening in that genre at the time anywhere in the world. Mixing Jazz, Rock, Folklore and Avant-Garde vocals, they established a completely new approach to composition and multilayered complexity, as documented on the two albums the group recorded as part of the legendary "Polish Jazz" series of albums, which was simply brilliant.
Frustrated by the state of affairs in his country, which suffered under a Socialist Regime and harsh economic conditions, Urbaniak, like most of his colleagues, constantly looked for an opportunity to leave Poland and establish a career behind the Iron Curtain. He managed initially to record a couple of albums in West Germany for the SpiegeleiFind albums on this label label, but the real break came when Columbia offered him a recording deal. He and his wife left Poland and settled in the USA, as did several other Polish Jazz musicians at the time, like his ex group member pianist / composer Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist for example.
The three albums Urbaniak recorded for Columbia (and several more for other US labels, especially the dazzling "Funk FactoryFind albums with this title" album recorded shortly after this one and also reissued on Wounded BirdFind albums on this label) were outstanding and simply much better than anything the local scene could muster, but unfortunately Urbaniak´s US career never really took off, same as the careers of all other Polish Jazz musicians who tried to make it there, in spite of their immense talents. The reason was simply the narrow-mindedness of the US Jazz community (listeners and critics alike), which considered Jazz to be exclusively an American Art Form and failed to recognize anything originating outside of the US as artistically valid and meaningful, even if it hit them in the face.
On this album Urbaniak is accompanied by top US Fusion players like guitarist John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist, bassist Anthony JacksonFind albums by this artist and drummer Steve GaddFind albums by this artist, as well as Polish compatriot keyboardist Wlodek GulgowskiFind albums by this artist. Guitarist Larry CoryellFind albums by this artist guests on one track, guitarist Joe CaroFind albums by this artist guests on another and Polish vocalist Bernard KafkaFind albums by this artist guests on yet another track. Drummer Gerald BrownFind albums by this artist replaces Gadd on two tracks. Dudziak´s vocals are simply out of this world and alone are worth listening to this album repeatedly.
Urbaniak wrote almost all the dazzling music except for three tracks: a Dudziak improvisation, a superb composition by Polish saxophonist Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, which fits this album´s mood like a glove and one tune by Gulgowski.
As already said, this is timeless, heavenly, unparalleled music, which I´ve been listening to in the last almost 40 years without any trace of getting tired by it any time soon. This is an absolutely essential Fusion music, and anybody who has not heard this music does not know the true meaning of Fusion. God bless Wounded Bird for finally releasing this divine album on CD!
| | Updated: 11/09/2019Posted: | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | WYNTON MARSALIS ~ THE MAJESTY OF THE BLUES
WOUNDED BIRD 5091 (Barcode: 664140509122) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1989 Released: 2007
Following the initial period of intense search of his own musical identity, which lasted for about five years, trumpeter / composer Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist switched gears into the next phase of his illustrious career. The metamorphosis was slow and gradual, but the direction and the ultimate goal were pretty clear from the very early stages. Marsalis decided to treat his relationship with music not as a profession, where the most important facet of a musician is his skill and power of expression (or improvisational ability in Jazz), but rather as an almost messianic quest to turn music into a total art form, emphasizing its historical, philosophical, aesthetical, social and even political aspects. His albums, and often album cycles, would be much more that a series of sounds captured for posterity in a recording studio – they would become conceptual messages, in which the music would be just one layer of the total memorandum he wanted to communicate and get across, in order to educate, influence and often even preach. It didn´t take long for the music critics and later on Jazz audiences as well to start giving Marsalis a "funny" look, and later on commence a direct assault of disapproval and personal harassment. Prophets and visionaries have always suffered from public displeasure since the early days of human history, a phenomenon repeating itself time after time. This superb album is the first significant example of the "new" Marsalis. Completely emancipated from the Miles Davis complex, which haunted him from day one, he changed his relationship with the music and his instrument. From now on he was about to immerse into the roots of Jazz and present the history of the music, revitalized and interpreted his way, and where to find a better starting point than the Blues. Taking a trip back to his roots and origins, Marsalis creates a tribute to New Orleans, the cradle of Jazz. In order to express his musical ideas he realizes that he needs a larger ensemble to express his new musical vistas and therefore the quartet he used up to this point is expanded to a sextet (on this album) and soon after into a septet (a classic Jazz lineup), which would be his main vehicle for many years subsequently. The sextet includes Marsalis, saxophonists Todd WilliamsFind albums by this artist and Wes AndersonFind albums by this artist, pianist Marcus RobertsFind albums by this artist, bassist Reginald VealFind albums by this artist and drummer Herlin RileyFind albums by this artist. The album presents two separate music cycles: the first a recording by the sextet, playing music written by Marsalis, which is a modern version of early New Orleans Jazz, the second, called "The New Orleans Function" is performed by a sextet comprising of Marsalis and five veteran New Orleans musicians, again performing music written by him. The most unusual piece of the album is a lengthy sermon, delivered passionately over a musical background, lamenting the fate of the Blues in modern times (and clearly easily applicable to Jazz in general, or even all music or all culture). The sermon was written by journalist Stanley CrouchFind albums by this artist, who was a heated Marsalis supporter from day one and part of ColumbiaFind albums on this label´s PR machine promoting Marsalis to the status of a superstar. His somewhat "overheated" (read pompous) style turned out to be one of the factors, which led to the public "mutiny" against Marsalis´ domination of the Jazz scene. But disregarding the above, the sermon, obviously expressing Marsalis´ views at the time, is completely in par with the concept of this album and plays a vital role in expressing the ideology behind it. The entire strength and superb quality of the album is remarkable and a true work of art. The New Orleans Jazz is revitalized and presented in its full glory, placing this exquisite music back on the center stage after being almost completely forgotten and abandoned, except for a miniscule community of musicians and fans. Marsalis´ ability to love, understand and convey the roots of Jazz is a rare gift, and the Jazz fans from this album on will be exposed to more of the forgotten Jazz treasures thanks to his consistent effort to uncover them. Brilliant piece of music and an essential listening experience!
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | WYNTON MARSALIS ~ WYNTON MARSALIS
WOUNDED BIRD 7574 (Barcode: 664140757424) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 2007
American trumpeter / composer / arranger / bandleader Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist is probably the most identifiable Jazz personality worldwide in the last three decades – Mr. Jazz himself! With Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and lately also Freddie HubbardFind albums by this artist no longer with us, Marsalis is also the greatest trumpet player still standing. Sometimes it seems that the responsibility that comes with these honorable positions appear to be just too much for Marsalis to handle, as he has been in the epicenter of a huge controversy concerning his personality, his public statements and even his musical achievements. It was all Guns (of appraisal) and Roses (of admiration) at first – everything just clicked for Marsalis: a prestigious recording contract with ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records, a massive PR campaign for his albums, Grammy nominations and awards and every other conceivable musical award in US and abroad (including the first ever Pulitzer Prize for music) and finally the appointment as Artistic Director of the "Jazz at Lincoln Center", a cushy and extremely well paid job, all these and more turned out to be just too much for his enemies (and he has many of those) to swallow. To say the truth, Marsalis has a mouth, which does not fall much behind his mouth´s extension, the trumpet. The man just loves to voice his opinions, and some of these are quite provocative and extremely controversial, all this on top his always highly stylish wardrobe and often snobbish behavior. All the above make Marsalis an easy target for hatred and criticism, mostly by bigots, short-sighted critics and most of all envious competitors. To tell the truth, I don´t dive a damn. For me, Marsalis was always, from day one, an example of a total musician. He not only has a tremendous gift, but he both feels and understands music, a rare combination with only a handful of musicians around the globe truly possess. His ability to perform and compose Jazz and Classical music only emphasizes his musical versatility and profound effort to study, learn and apply the acquired throughout his entire life. His love of early Jazz, from the Blues, the New Orleans Masters, Louis ArmstrongFind albums by this artist and up to Beboppers like Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist, and in parallel his disrespect towards Fusion and Free Jazz are fine by me. Not everybody has to love every kind of music and even not all kinds of Jazz… as long as they do whatever they do in such magnificent fashion as he does with his music, time after time. So here comes this album, his debut solo recording. As already mentioned, Marsalis is a perpetual student, and this was just his first step, so obviously he was relaying heavily on what he knew then, which for a trumpet player means one thing: Miles Davis. In many respects this album is a direct bridge between the classic Davis recording with the second quintet, almost two decades earlier. Although his quintet does not perform any of Miles Davis compositions or even tunes from the Master´s regular repertoire, the sound and stylistic approach is quite obvious. Emphasized by the fact that about a half of the album´s tracks feature that very same quintet´s rhythm section – Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist on piano, Ron CarterFind albums by this artist on bass and Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist on drums, and Wynton´s brother Branford MarsalisFind albums by this artist sounds remarkably like Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist on his saxophones, the associations just keep flowing. Is it imitation? Hell no! Not even in the slightest, although Marsalis would be called a Davis imitator from now no, even when he completely changed his modus operandi on the trumpet as he went along. Again, who gives a damn? This is a magnificent album, full of superb performances and uplifting music, masterly played from start to finish. Period! And when one remembers that Marsalis was just 20 years old when this album was recorded… give me a break… this is a revelation. But Marsalis was a fast learner and his subsequent recordings will surpass this album, as good as it is, by far. Maturity has this effect on people; they just get better with what they do in time, provided of course that they are as talented as Wynton Marsalis.
Side Note: The fact that Columbia dropped from its catalogue almost the entire recorded output by Wynton Marsalis is a sad and tragic testimony of our times. Columbia made a lot of money from his albums for decades, but considering the state of the music industry, there are no sentiments left. This reissue is released on the Wounded BirdFind albums on this label label; kudos to the label owner for keeping great music alive!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | WYNTON MARSALIS ~ THICK IN THE SOUTH: SOUL GESTURES IN SOUTHERN BLUE VOL. 1
WOUNDED BIRD 7977 (Barcode: 664140797727) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1991 Released: 2008
Just ten years after he first appeared on the scene as a solo artist bandleader, trumpeter / composer / bandleader Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist could present a résumé, which was unprecedented in Jazz history and was by far more impressive than many lifetime achievements by his peers. Twenty albums with Jazz and Classical Music recordings, countless performances around the world, numerous compositions, prizes and awards, all these wrapped up and commercialized by an intensive PR campaign by his record label ColumbiaFind albums on this label, presented a renaissance musician, a role model and a superstar. Marsalis was just 30 years old and his ego and probably his conscience drove him incessantly to prove himself worthy of this superstar status. His musical projects became ever more complex and encompassing and Columbia indulged him in view of his success. The album trilogy, entitled "Soul Gestures In Southern BlueFind albums with this title", was Marsalis´ final project about the sources of Jazz, New Orleans Blues / Jazz connections and the emergence of modern Jazz from this primeval genealogy. For this, the first of the three albums, Marsalis formed an ad-hoc quintet by inviting legendary saxophonist Joe HendersonFind albums by this artist to play with him, supported by his regular rhythm session comprising of pianist Marcus RobertsFind albums by this artist, bassist Robert HurstFind albums by this artist and drummer Jeff WattsFind albums by this artist. On a couple of tracks Watts was replaced by another Jazz legend Elvin JonesFind albums by this artist. The quintet performs five Marsalis´ compositions, which are designed to allow for extensive improvisations and interplay between the players. The music is intense and dramatic, revealing the composer´s tendency to intensify his music towards a more "chamber" direction, with layers of sound intertwined into the harmonic structure. Marsalis, Henderson and Roberts play some brilliant solos throughout the album and the overall level of musicianship is simply breathtaking. Surprisingly (or may be not) the trilogy received "icy" reviews, again accusing Marsalis of imitating or being overly influenced by Miles Davis in this project. In my view Marsalis at this point was completely cured from the Miles complex and if these recordings have anything to do with Miles, they are a loving tribute to the Masters legacy, not an imitation. Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | DON ELLIS ~ AUTUMN
WOUNDED BIRD 9721 (Barcode: 664140972124) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2007
Brilliant American trumpeter / composer / arranger / bandleader Don EllisFind albums by this artist led a superb Big Band, which was one of the most outstanding Jazz ensembles in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Eons ahead of its time, Ellis´ fascination with uneven meters and World Music influences made his music truly revolutionary and fresh and the music lost nothing of its relevance over the years. He also had a rare talent to pick up the best musicians for his band, mostly forward-thinking individuals, ideally suited for his unusual approach to music and brilliant instrumentalists. Some of the musicians playing on this album are saxophonists Frank StrozierFind albums by this artist and John KlemmerFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Glen FerrisFind albums by this artist and many more outstanding musicians. The brilliant music was all composed by Ellis, except one Charlie ParkerFind albums by this artist standard. At its full might the orchestra sounds like nothing else before or since, with every instrument perfectly fulfilling its role. Two of the six tracks were recorded live and show the orchestra as one of the most exciting live acts at the time. It´s fascinating to read the album´s liner notes written by Al KooperFind albums by this artist, who was ColumbiaFind albums on this label´s A&R manager at the time, describing the Don Ellis experience at the time. This is an absolute must to and Big Band fan, but all music connoisseurs should find this music fascinating.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
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