Record Reviews
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  | CARAVAN ~ THE SHOW OF OUR LIVES - LIVE AT THE BBC 1968-1975
DERAM 301443 (Barcode: 600753014431) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1968 - 1975 Released: 2007
Every piece of archival material by the legendary Canterbury Scene band CaravanFind albums by this artist is worth its weight in gold, and where to look for such material if not in the BBC vaults, which seems to be an endless source of superb material from the 1960s and 1970s material for us, the ever hungry fans. This great collection of Caravan recordings spans the first 8 years of the group’s career and includes material from their most adventurous and productive period. It’s enough to list the musicians, who were members of the band over the years (Dave SinclairFind albums by this artist, Pye HastingsFind albums by this artist, Richard SinclairFind albums by this artist, Richard CoughlanFind albums by this artist, Geoffrey RichardsonFind albums by this artist, Mike WedgwoodFind albums by this artist) is enough to make every Canterbury fan shiver with awe-inspired admiration. The group was truly inspirational, setting the path for generations to come and vastly contributing to the development of jazz influenced Fusion and avant-oriented RIO. The BBC session included here cover the band’s entire first phase, starting from their debut eponymous album on VerveFind albums on this label and covering all the albums they recorded for DeccaFind albums on this label, the last being Cunning StuntsFind albums with this title. The quality of the material is absolutely superb from start to finish both musically and sonically, as the usual high standard of the BBC sound engineering never fails to astonish. This is an absolute must to every Caravan and Canterbury Scene fan, and basically for anybody out there, who likes good music.
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | STAN GETZ ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886978805829 (Barcode: 886978805829) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 - 1979 Released: 2011
With a career spanning half a century American saxophonist Stan GetzFind albums by this artist became one of the undying Jazz icons, making many milestone contributions to the development of the Jazz art form. He was probably one of the most versatile Jazz figures, associated with such diverse Jazz genres as Bebop, Cool, Bossa Nova and Jazz-Rock Fusion. His extensive recorded legacy includes many classic Jazz albums, which are considered timeless and are listened to today.
Getz´s most popular albums are those recorded during his stint with the VerveFind albums on this label label (1951–1972), but his albums recorded for and released on ColumbiaFind albums on this label in the 1970s, although criminally less known, are in fact some of his best ever and surely constitute the most diverse output created by one artist in a period of just several years, probably due to the complete artistic freedom and self-production rights he was awarded by Columbia. A total of seven albums were released on Columbia, spanning a wide artistic spectrum and all absolutely brilliant.
The set opens with the marvelous "Captain MarvelFind albums with this title" album, recorded with pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist (who wrote almost all the music on that album), bassist Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist, drummer Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist and percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist. This album was recorded just a month after the recording of the debut eponymous album by the newly founded Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist. It included some of the music already recorded on that debut album and other music included later on the second Return To Forever album called "Light As A FeatherFind albums with this title". This is definitely one of the most memorable early Fusion recordings.
Next comes the reunion between Getz and the Brazilian guitarist / composer Joao GilbertoFind albums by this artist ("The Best Of Two WorldsFind albums with this title"), returning to the Jazz / Bossa Nova style, which a decade earlier pushed Getz to the center of fame and popularity as a result of the commercial and artistic success of legendary early Getz / Gilberto albums.
Then there is the beautiful collaboration with the legendary vocalist / pianist / composer Jimmie RowlesFind albums by this artist ("The PeacocksFind albums with this title"), a straight-forward quartet date ("The MasterFind albums with this title"), another great Fusion album ("Another WorldFind albums with this title") with keyboardist Andy LaverneFind albums by this artist, an album of Lalo ShifrinFind albums by this artist´s compositions ("Children Of The WorldFind albums with this title") and finally a soundtrack album ("Forest EyesFind albums with this title") recorded in Holland with excellent Dutch musicians.
The Box Set also includes a bonus CD comprising of live recordings by Getz, compiled from different albums and informative liner notes. All albums are remastered and include bonus tracks. Together this is one of the most fascinating collections of music, simply exploding with musical genius and incredible performances. It is an essential document of what intelligent and open minded music is all about and an essential part of the Jazz legacy. Not to be missed under any circumstances!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 8 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | 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 |
  | PACO DE LUCIA / AL DI MEOLA / JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ THE GUITAR TRIO
VERVE 533215 (Barcode: 731453321526) ~ SPAIN ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1996
14 years after recording their last acoustic guitar album together, Paco De LuciaFind albums by this artist, Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist and John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist - three guitar geniuses - get together again to deliver a follow up. This album is every bit as good as their previous encounters. There is no evidence whatsoever of weariness, on the contrary – age seems to agree with them, refining their musical instincts. As usual, the music was all composed by the players themselves, except one bossa-nova, which gets a superb treatment. The format of duos and trios seems to be a perfect vehicle for all three players to express their outstanding abilities and they explore it to the extreme. There is really not much to say here, except recommend this album to every music lover – satisfaction guaranteed.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SCHIFRIN, LALO ~ MARQUIS DE SADE
VERVE 537751 ~ USA ~ Jazz
One of the most famous jazz albums of all times by the great composer, arranger and pianist Lalo Schifrin, famous also for his numerous film and TV scores, such as `Mission Impossible`. On this album Schifrin creates jazz `a la baroque`, combining jazz and 18th Century inspired classical music, one of the best efforts of this kind. Absolute classic!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ THE HEART OF THINGS
VERVE 539153 (Barcode: 731453915329) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1997 Released: 1997
Since the late 1960’s John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist’s career enfolded like a continuous success story, moving from one musical hilltop to another: recording with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, leading the Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, world music excursions with ShaktiFind albums by this artist, etc. – all remarkable achievements. Keeping a position “in the lead” for so many years is never easy, but McLaughlin manages to deliver an amazingly consistent high quality output time after time with elegance and grace. This album is no exception and presents the genius player / composer at his best again. Listening to this album raises almost immediately an attempt to compare the music and the group of musicians playing it to the Mahavishnu Orchestra. Although never formally called by that name, it is indeed a direct continuation of the work McLaughlin did with Mahavishnu about 20+ years earlier – electric Fusion. Of course this group is more mature, slightly more jazz oriented, and definitely much more relaxed and laid back, all for the good. Not that the fire and passion of the original Mahavishnu wasn’t fantastic – it definitely was, but it often ventured into moments of havoc and confusion, which are completely absent here. McLaughlin uses on this recording a set of seasoned and experienced players: saxophonist Gary ThomasFind albums by this artist (one of the most talented players of the new generation and the jazziest player in this group), keyboards player Jim BeardFind albums by this artist and drummer Dennis ChambersFind albums by this artist, both veteran fusion players and finally the youngest member – Matthew GarrisonFind albums by this artist on bass (son of the legendary bass player Jimmy GarrisonFind albums by this artist from John ColtraneFind albums by this artist’s quartet). McLaughlin composed all the music on this album, and the result should be equally appealing to both jazz and fusion fans. Highly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ THE HEART OF THINGS - LIVE IN PARIS
VERVE 543536 (Barcode: 731454353625) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1998 Released: 2000
This is a live companion album to the studio recording of the same name. Recorded during a tour that followed the release of the studio album, this album complements the studio recording perfectly, as there is very little parallel materiel on the two. Only three of the tunes present on the studio album are played here, and as usual they get a completely different treatment, which of course is the essence of live recordings. The rest of the material consists of earlier compositions by John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. The group is almost identical to the one which recorded in the studio, except for keyboards player Otmaro RuizFind albums by this artist (who replaces Jim BeardFind albums by this artist) and the presence of percussionist Victor WilliamsFind albums by this artist (who was only a guest on the studio album). The musicians perform splendidly, with the lengthy tunes leaving plenty of space for individual players to solo extensively. There is not a dull moment here, with enough inspiration, professionalism and talent to satisfy even the harshest critics. Definitely worth having.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAEL BRECKER ~ NEARNESS OF YOU: THE BALLAD BOOK
VERVE 549705 (Barcode: 731454970525) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2001
Michael Brecker is considered one of the top US saxophone players and innovators. His illustrious career goes back to the late 1960’s when he was a member of the little known Jazz-Rock Fusion band Dreams (similar to BS&T and Chicago but more funky) and later as co-leader of the Brecker Brothers band (with his brother trumpeter Randy Brecker). His career as a leader started rather late with the release of his debut (self-titled) solo album in 1986 and marked his return to the jazz mainstream. Since then he released a series of consistently excellent albums, this being his 8th. With a stellar lineup including Pat Metheny on guitar, Herbie Hancock on piano, Charlie Haden on bass and Jack DeJohnette on drums Brecker presents an all- ballad repertoire, which of course is a great challenge for even the most accomplished players. Of course in his case the listener has nothing to worry about, as he passes the test with flying colors. His (and his band members) playing is perfect all the way through, lush and sensuous but always sensitive to the melody’s special ambience. A very nice surprise comes in the guest appearance (on two of the songs) by the veteran singer / songwriter James Taylor, who performs one of his everlasting songs and the title song. Listening to this album is nothing but bliss and pleasure, a true jazz gem.
Side Note: In 2005 Michael Brecker was diagnosed with a rare blood cancer and is fighting for his life to this day. Thousands of musicians and fans underwent blood tests (myself included) in search for a suitable donor for a marrow transplant for Michael, so far with no positive match. My thoughts and best wishes for a speedy recovery are with him always.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | TONY WILLIAMS / LIFETIME ~ EGO
VERVE 559512 (Barcode: 731455951226) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 1999
3rd album by the Tony Williams LifetimeFind albums by this artist. A mixture of jazz and space/psychedelic rock, which explains why this group is considered as one of the most important pioneers of Jazz-Rock. Williams, who at the age of 17 was given the drum chair by Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, is one of the greatest drummers of all times and his untimely death in 1997 was a great blow to all music lovers.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | STEFANO BOLLANI ~ BIG BAND!
VERVE 602527720821 (Barcode: 602527720821) ~ ITALY ~ Big Band Jazz
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2011
This is a live album by Italian Jazz pianist / composer Stefano BollaniFind albums by this artist, recorded with the excellent German NDR Big BandFind albums by this artist, conducted by Norwegian musician / arranger Geir LysneFind albums by this artist. The album presents five tracks, all original compositions by Bollani, arranged by Lysne. Among the international team of the NDR, we find American drummer Jeff BallardFind albums by this artist, Argentinean percussionist Marcio DoctorFind albums by this artist, German saxophonist Christof LauerFind albums by this artist and others.
The music is as much about Bollani’s brilliant piano playing and fascinating compositions, as about the incredible arrangements and performances by the Big Band, which are us usual stellar to say the least. NDR is the leading European Jazz Big Band, with a constantly changing lineup of top Jazz musicians from all over the world. It epitomizes the European orchestral / Big Band approach, which is diametrically different from the American Jazz tradition. The orchestra functions as one body, organically creating a sound, which reflects the rich and complex layers, all contributing to the total outcome. There are no repeated riffs and clear division into sections, but rather an organic music making mechanism, which is basically inseparable.
Bollani’s romantic, lyrical pieces are expanded into suite-like continuances, with little space for soloing per se. His piano is elegantly integrated into the orchestral sound, clearly audible but not dominating the proceedings. The resulting music is quite complex, but offers a powerful “punch”, which is extremely effective. This is European aesthetics at its best.
Overall, this is a rich and powerful musical experience, delivered by some of the best musicians around, and for the Big Band sound enthusiasts, this is a true engulfing orgy of pulsations and resonances, which one wishes should never stop. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 21/07/2024Posted: 21/07/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | DAVID CROSBY ~ LIGHTHOUSE
VERVE 602557238686 (Barcode: 602557238686) ~ USA ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016
A couple of years ago (in 2014) legendary singer / songwriter David CrosbyFind albums by this artist of the ByrdsFind albums by this artist and Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist fame, released his fourth studio album ("CrozFind albums with this title") after twenty one years of silence, and forty three years after the release of his debut album, which means that his average output is one album every eleven years give or take a year. And now, against all odds and just two years later, he´s back with another album, his fifth studio effort, with nine great new songs!
Although released under Crosby´s name, the album is actually a duo effort, with Crosby co-writing most of the songs and performing them with Michael LeagueFind albums by this artist, bassist, guitarist and the leader of the instrumental group Snarky PuppyFind albums by this artist. Most of the songs feature just Crosby singing and playing acoustic guitar and League accompanying him on various guitars and bass and singing backing vocals.
Crosby´s voice, which I had the immense pleasure to listen to live last year (2015), is remarkably steady and clear, although his range is obviously limited by age and he does not use his dramatic falsetto any more. Nevertheless he is still a formidable performer and the intimate setting of this album suits him ideally.
The songs are all very good, both musically and lyrically. Although the times when songs had to have a great melody and intelligent lyrics are long forgotten, Crosby still adheres to this golden formula, which is a blessing. His natural melancholy and deep lyricism are still intact and the songs reflect these qualities, as they always did over the years.
Considering the fact that the generation of great musicians, to which Crosby belongs, is being depleted on a daily basis, the fact that Crosby is still with us, in spite of his serious heath problems over the years, is a true miracle. For us, mere followers of his musical journeys, this album is like winning a lottery, which makes getting older just a bit easier for a while.
Keep on, David! God Bless!
| | Updated: 18/01/2019Posted: 02/01/2017 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ MOLOM: A LEGEND OF MONGOLIA (SOUNDTRACK)
VERVE 731452903426 (Barcode: 731452903426) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995
This is an album by British Jazz guitarist / composer John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, which collects the music he recorded for the soundtrack to the movie of the same title. The album presents twenty-two short tracks, fifteen of which are original compositions by McLaughlin, which he performs on acoustic and electric guitar, with synthesizer background. Indian percussionist Trilok GurtuFind albums by this artist plays on selected tracks. The remaining seven tracks are traditional Mongolian songs, performed by various local artists.
The music is absolutely gorgeous, with beautiful melodic / lyrical themes, quite unusual in McLaughlin’s repertoire, brilliantly performed, as expected. Other tracks offer the more familiar Jazz-World Fusion stylistic, performed with the usual virtuosity and skill.
Overall, this is an almost completely and criminally ignored album in McLaughlin’s recorded legacy. McLaughlin’s numerous fans will find here some of the most beautiful music he ever wrote, as well as blood-curdling performances, which make this album a must in every serious collection of his recordings. Probably not easy to find, but definitely worth the effort to close a gap in one’s collection!
| | Updated: 09/07/2024Posted: 09/07/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERBIE HANCOCK ~ RIVER: THE JONI LETTERS
VERVE 744826 (Barcode: 602517448261) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2007
Jazz legend Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist finally repays the debt the Jazz world owes to Rock legend Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist. Joni’s 1979 album MingusFind albums with this title stands out to this very day as one of the greatest tributes ever made to Jazz by a non-Jazz musician and I always wondered when is someone going to settle the score. Well better late than never and better still if the musician to do so is someone of Hancock’s statue and sensibility. For me Joni’s music always had subtle jazzy undertones, even if she didn’t use Jazz musicians as her backing band (like on “Mingus” and a few other albums), and therefore this project sounds completely natural and perfectly matched. Hancock assembled a superb quintet for the job, with Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist (soprano and tenor saxophone), Dave HollandFind albums by this artist (bass), Vinnie ColaiutaFind albums by this artist (drums) and Lionel LouekeFind albums by this artist (guitar). The ten tracks, combined and arranged to constitute a continuos suite-like experience, include eight Joni’s songs and two Jazz standards. Several vocalists were invited to interpret the vocal parts on six of the tracks and these include Norah JonesFind albums by this artist, Tina TurnerFind albums by this artist, Corinne Bailey RaeFind albums by this artist, Luciana SouzaFind albums by this artist, Joni Mitchell herself and Leonard CohenFind albums by this artist, who recites rather than sings. The overall effect is absolutely beautiful and deeply moving. The musicians are all Masters of their trade and they are amongst the most sensitive accompanist, as well as first rate soloists. Hats off Mr. Hancock and thanks for this wonderful gift of music and thank you Joni for bestowing your great talent on all of us – you truly deserve this tribute. Essential!
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | STAN GETZ ~ THE BOSSA NOVA ALBUMS
VERVE 754969 (Barcode: 602517549692) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1962 - 1963 Released: 2008
The Brazilian musical gift to the world – the Bossa Nova – is celebrating its 50th Anniversary, so it’s only natural to take a look at some classic recordings, which popularized the genre outside of its birthplace, namely the legendary Stan GetzFind albums by this artist recordings, which created a Bossa Nova craze in the US. Saxophonist Stan Getz was already an established Jazz player at the time these timeless albums were recorded, but his pioneering work with Brazilian musicians was a bold step, very unusual for the conservative US Jazz community. Although accused of commercialism and “selling out” by many of his peers and music critics, the fact that this music became so immensely popular with Jazz fans and even many non-Jazz listeners, has everything to do with the quality of the music, rather than the its accessibility. After all the Bossa Nova’s inherent beauty and mesmerizing rhythm are addictive and quite irresistible and the way Getz immersed himself totally in the music, creating a perfect amalgam of Jazz and the Brazilian music (a superb early example of Jazz-World Fusion) was phenomenal. Add to this the incredible tone of his saxophone, lush and clear, sweet as honey and yet highly intelligent and often innovative musically, and you get some classic music, which sounds forever fresh and moving, even if you heard some if it countless times before. This beautiful Box Set includes the five Bossa Nova albums Getz recorded for Verve in 1962 and 1963: “Jazz SambaFind albums with this title”, “Big Band Bossa NovaFind albums with this title”, “Jazz Samba Encore!Find albums with this title”, “Getz / GilbertoFind albums with this title” and “Getz / AlmeidaFind albums with this title”. Of these five albums, four are small combo recordings, where Getz plays opposite a guitarist: Charlie ByrdFind albums by this artist, Luiz BonfaFind albums by this artist, Joao GilbertoFind albums by this artist and Laurindo AlmeidaFind albums by this artist, respectively. The big band album features a large orchestra (with some of the best Jazz players of the time), conducted by Gary McFarlandFind albums by this artist, who also arranged the music. The legendary producer Creed TaylorFind albums by this artist produced all the albums. A few vocal tracks appear here, including the everlasting Astrud GilbertoFind albums by this artist‘s “The Girl From Ipanema”. In the 45 years that passed since these sessions were recorded, the music lost absolutely nothing of its charm and beauty and I still very much a source of great musical pleasure. Don’t get fooled by people, who label this music commercial or “sentimental”, this is essential stuff, which will outlast its critics.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 5 Digipak Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ QUE ALEGRIA
VERVE 837280 (Barcode: 042283728028) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1991 Released: 2003
A beautiful album by the John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist Trio, with percussionist extraordinare Trilok GurtuFind albums by this artist and bass player Dominique Di PiazzaFind albums by this artist (Kai BeckhardFind albums by this artist plays bass on two of the nine tracks). McLaughlin switches masterfully between the acoustic guitar and guitar synthesizer according to the desired mood and his partners play along with virtuosity and elegance. The music covers a wide range of genres, from blues to strong world music influences. McLaughlin wrote most of the music on the album, with Gurtu and Di Piazza contributing one track each. This is a true showcase of sophisticated and invigorating music creation, which is timeless and precious. A case of “less is more”, where the silence is as important as the sound. Beautifully recorded in the famous Ludwigsburg Studio (in South Germany), where also many ECM albums were recorded. Brilliant!
| | Updated: 09/07/2024Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | REMEMBER SHAKTI ~ THE WAY OF BEAUTY
VERVE 838683 (Barcode: 602498386835) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1976 - 2004 Released: 2006
Finally, after so many years of waiting, the fans (myself included) can enjoy au vivo the spectacular and divine work of John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and his Indian ensemble ShaktiFind albums by this artist. The original Shakti was formed in 1975 with McLaughlin combining forces with several classical Indian Masters, including percussionist extraordinare Zakir HussainFind albums by this artist. After releasing three superb albums McLaughlin disbanded the ensemble in 1977, only to reunite it again 22 years later, this time under the name Remember ShaktiFind albums by this artist, which recorded another 3 albums. This great DVD includes over 3 hours of material, which covers performances of the original ensemble as well as the reunion, documentary material and interviews. McLaughlin visionary and pioneering approach to World-Jazz Fusion is of course just one of his many musical achievements, which deserve to be devoured at all possible avenues. This is a true Godsend! NTSC
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  | CARAVAN ~ CARAVAN (EXPANDED EDITION)
VERVE 882952 (Barcode: 042288295228) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2002
1st (self titled) album by this revolutionary Prog band, which already at that stage shows how innovative and talented these musicians were. This edition includes the entire album remastered in both stereo and mono mix and a bonus track - a real treat to all Caravan fans.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ INDUSTRIAL ZEN
VERVE 983932 (Barcode: 602498393284) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2006
Here it is at last – the finest album recorded in the 21st century! As lofty and far-fetched as this might sound, I’m ready to defend this statement for as long as it takes. This masterpiece by the legendary guitarist is a complex, multi-layered work of art. On one hand it is contemporary in every sense, especially as far as the overall sound is concerned, on the other hand however it is also an amalgam of John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist’s entire life as a musician, including every style, genre, direction and sound he played over the years, all of these synthesized into an integral new entity. For people familiar with McLaughlin’s illustrious career it should be quite easy to recognize the familiar elements: the spontaneity of the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist sessions, the fire of Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, the grace of his solo work on acoustic and electric guitar and of course his sensitivity and openness to other cultures as demonstrated in ShaktiFind albums by this artist and Remember ShaktiFind albums by this artist. Every note here is original and yet every note also has traces and links to something accomplished in the past. As far as the sound and instrumentation are concerned, these are completely new to McLaughlin. As the title of the album suggests, he uses plenty of electronics here – synth-guitar, keyboards and even drums are used to produce a plethora of both foreground and background electronic sounds, somewhat similar to the so-called “Industrial” sound used in Rock, but of course infinitely more complex and interesting. In addition, the album is very rhythmic and percussive, with two drummers and percussion players present simultaneously on most tracks. To achieve the maximal effect McLaughlin uses different players on various tracks and the list is most impressive: Mark MondesirFind albums by this artist, Vinnie ColaiutaFind albums by this artist, Dennis ChambersFind albums by this artist, Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist – drums; Otmaro RuizFind albums by this artist, Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist – keyboards; Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, Ada RovattiFind albums by this artist – sax; Matthew GarrisonFind albums by this artist, Hadrien FeraudFind albums by this artist – bass; Zakir HussainFind albums by this artist – tabla; Shankar MahadevanFind albums by this artist – vocals. This superb group of musicians supports their Master with love and devotion, which is evident, every step of the way. Another very interesting aspect of this album is that it seems McLaughlin is paying homage to the greatest Fusion ensemble in history – Weather ReportFind albums by this artist. Two of the tracks are explicitly named after WR members: “For Jaco” (Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist) and “Wayne’s Way” (Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist) but also the entire sound and feel of the album reflects very closely the feel of WR albums. I had a distinct feeling as if listening to a new album by an expanded version of WR including guitar. Perhaps something that was meant to happen but never did (i.e. WR playing with McLaughlin) finally materializes here? Fusion Karma? Whatever the Gods intended is besides the point here; one thing is sure: to create such divine music McLaughlin surely had to have a measure of godly intervention / inspiration. Bless you John for giving us such a wonderful musical gift. You do make life endurable again with your beacon clearly showing the direction to ships sailing the oceans of musical ennui.
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERBIE HANCOCK ~ THE NEW STANDARD
VERVE 988403 (Barcode: 602498840351) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 2005
After playing jazz standards throughout all his life (in addition to original music of course), Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist decided to record an album dedicated to his rendition of contemporary Pop songs, which in his opinion deserve to enter the standard songbook. The BeatlesFind albums by this artist, Steve WonderFind albums by this artist and scores of other songwriters active since the 1960’s composed thousands of songs worthy of becoming classics, yet the jazz standards to this day are mostly tunes written in the first half of the 20th century. Hancock selected a dreamy sextet of some of the best contemporary jazz Masters to take part in this recording, with Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist – sax, John ScofieldFind albums by this artist – guitar, Dave HollandFind albums by this artist – bass, Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist – drums and Don AliasFind albums by this artist – percussion. He takes the original tunes quite far from the source, transforming them into jazz with masterful touch and divine sensibility. Of course all the players perform beautifully, with Hancock taking a few fiery solos and so do Brecker and Scofield. The rhythm section provides solid and sophisticated background and the entire session just swings like there is no tomorrow. Absolutely delightful!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | FRANK ZAPPA ~ LUMPY GRAVY
ZAPPA 3836 (Barcode: 824302383629) ~ USA ~ Avant-Garde Classical
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2012
This is a reissue / remaster of the 3rd album by iconic American guitarist / composer / bandleader / visionary Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist, originally released in 1968. The album presents just two continuous long tracks comprising of short fragments edited together, all composed by Zappa, with all of the material recorded in the studio in 1967 or earlier. This album was the second installment of the “No Commercial Potential” project, which also included the albums “We`re Only In It For The MoneyFind albums with this title”, “Cruising With Ruben & The JetsFind albums with this title” and “Uncle MeatFind albums with this title”.
The album was the first Zappa’s solo project and he does not play on it, but rather conducts a large orchestra comprising of almost sixty musicians, which he called Abnuceals Amuukha Electric Symphony OrchestraFind albums by this artist, and which does not include any members of The Mothers Of InventionFind albums by this artist. The album was commissioned and initially released in 1967 by CapitolFind albums on this label Records, despite the fact that Zappa was under contract with VerveFind albums on this label Records, which of course resulted in immediate legal dispute, which led to the Capitol album being withdrawn and re-released by Verve almost a year later in 1968, after Zappa reedited and expanded the orchestral album, adding inserts of spoken word / dialogue and music recorded earlier.
The orchestral music was a two-part oratorio, somewhat resembling symphonic musique concrête, which Zappa was interested in, and therefore is the first album on which Zappa demonstrates his interest and passion for Classical Music and large orchestral compositions, which of course would reoccur throughout his career.
Zappa shows on this album that he is able to write music, which amalgamates anything between Avant-Garde Pop and Rock and contemporary orchestral Classical Music. He appears as the first “total musician” on the Pop / Rock scene, a status he was able to hold till the day he died. From day one his extravagant personality and brilliant intelligence marked him as an outsider, a fate shared by most geniuses.
Ironically, despite the album’s Avant-Garde nature, it was exceptionally well received at the time of its release and even charted on the album list. This could have only happened in the late 1960s, when the last evidence of Human intelligence was still present on earth.
Overall, although fifty-five years passed since this music was recorded, this album remains an absolute Classic in every respect, which stands proudly as an icon of superb music, which still shines brighter than almost anything else recorded since. Zappa’s genius, not only as a musician, but also as a visionary and a brilliant observer of the human condition and American folly and deceit, remain completely relevant and are even more actual today than ever.
Side Note
Frank Zappa created a vast recorded legacy during his lifetime, which is continuously being expanded using music recorded and stored in his extensive vault. The albums officially released and approved by Zappa are numbered sequentially in the "Official Release" series, from #001 to the last release so far #126. The albums between #001 to #062 were released during Zappa's lifetime and all the others were released posthumously. There are countless unofficial / bootleg releases on the market as well.
Zappa's catalogue was remastered for CD release twice: in 1995 for the RykodiscFind albums on this label releases and again in 2012 for the ZappaFind albums on this label Records / UniversalFind albums on this label releases. The Zappa / Universal program includes 60 releases, which cover the entire catalog released during his lifetime (62 releases, except #013 "200 Motels" and the three Box Sets #043, #046 and #049 called "The Old Masters vol.I / II / III"), and 6 posthumous releases (#064, #065, #067, #068, #093 and #094), which were also included.
| | Updated: 10/07/2022Posted: 10/07/2022 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
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