Record Reviews

BRECKER BROTHERS ~ THE COMPLETE ARISTA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 886979796225 (Barcode: 886979796225) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1975 - 1980 Released: 2012 Brothers Randy BreckerFind albums by this artist (trumpet / flugelhorn) and Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist (saxophone) are collectively and individually symbols of the American Jazz, Fusion and Funk scenes. They can be credited as co-inventors and pioneers of the American Jazz-Rock Fusion in the late 1960s and early 1970s (DreamsFind albums by this artist, Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist), especially as defining the Brass-Rock movement. By the mid-1970s they founded one of the most iconic and influential ensembles, calling it simply Brecker BrothersFind albums by this artist (or Brecker Bros.Find albums by this artist), which added Funk to the already well defined Fusion genre, creating a unique voice of unparalleled sophistication, feel and vitality, which had little, if any competition. The Brecker Brothers band existed originally for about six years, recording six marvelous albums between 1975 and 1980 (a reunion band recorded two more albums in early 1990s) The lineup changed over time and in retrospect included the absolute cream of the crop of American Fusion and Funk musicians active at the time: saxophonist David SanbornFind albums by this artist, guitarists Bob MannFind albums by this artist, Steve KhanFind albums by this artist, Barry FinnertyFind albums by this artist and others, keyboardists Don GrolnickFind albums by this artist, George DukeFind albums by this artist and others, bassists Will LeeFind albums by this artist, Neil JasonFind albums by this artist and Marcus MillerFind albums by this artist, drummers Harvey MasonFind albums by this artist, Christopher ParkerFind albums by this artist, Terry BozzioFind albums by this artist, Steve GaddFind albums by this artist and others. These names really tell the story, and the collective talents combined with the extraordinary compositions by Randy and Michael and the intricate arrangements created some of the unforgettable music, which still sounds as goof today as it did at the time it was recorded. This Box Set collects all the original six albums, released on the Arista label, and adds a couple of little known albums recorded live at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1978, originally called "Blue MontreuxFind albums with this title" and "Blue Montreux IIFind albums with this title", which find Randy and Michael in the company of other Jazz luminaries: pianist Warren BernhardtFind albums by this artist, guitarists Steve Khan and Larry CoryellFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Mike MainieriFind albums by this artist, bassists Tony LevinFind albums by this artist and Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Steve JordanFind albums by this artist, performing some Brecker Brothers material and other original compositions, all perfectly executed. With Michael´s tragic death in 2007, hearing the Brecker Brothers again is no longer possible, so this Box Set is a great tribute to a closed chapter in the history of American music, which should be remembered, as it is timeless and essential. Changing fads and fashions slide away, leaving the solid gold shining…

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 8 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

PAUL BUTTERFIELD ~ COMPLETE ALBUMS 1965-1980 RHINO 081227951955 (Barcode: 081227951955) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1965 - 1980 Released: 2015 This wonderful Box Set collects all the albums by American vocalist / harmonica virtuoso / bandleader Paul ButterfieldFind albums by this artist, recorded between 1965 and 1980, which constitute almost his entire recording career. These albums present some of the finest American Blues, Blues-Rock and Jazz-Rock music ever recorded and pay a tribute to one of the finest and most important American Blues Masters, sadly often overlooked. Butterfield´s musical journey can be divided into several periods, all quite different from each other, yet all characterized by total dedication and extraordinary achievements by the leader and his various crews. The first two albums in this collection, recorded by the Paul Butterfield Blues BandFind albums by this artist, seem to be the most celebrated ones, as they feature the talents of the brilliant guitarist Mike BloomfieldFind albums by this artist, one of the best ever white Blues guitar players in history. Following the departure of Bloomfield the band morphed into a Brass-Rock ensemble, which played Blues influenced Jazz-Rock Fusion material, which was somewhat similar to Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist and ChicagoFind albums by this artist, releasing four more studio albums and one live album under the same moniker. After Paul Butterfield Blues Band folded, the leader switched to a much smaller ensemble, called Paul Butterfield´s Better DaysFind albums by this artist, which played material closer to the original Blues traditions and recorded two albums, and finally he recorded three solo albums, which were of significant lesser quality. Butterfield died tragically in 1987 from a drug overdose, following his friend Mike Bloomfield who died under similar circumstances in 1981. Although quite a few live albums appeared on the market after Butterfield´s death, this Box Set includes the only official live album from 1970 (as a 2CD album) and a previously unreleased live album from 1969. Butterfield´s harmonica playing was completely unique and his treatment of the instrument was completely innovative and unprecedented. He played long, complex, virtuosic solos, which to this day have absolutely no parallels. His ability to collect superb musicians to form his bands was another of his exceptional qualities. The list of the musicians who played on his bands over the years looks like a who´s who of the American Blues and Jazz-Rock, including guitarist Elvin BishopFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Mark NaftalinFind albums by this artist, saxophonist David SanbornFind albums by this artist and dozens of others. Overall this Box Set is full of absolutely stunning music, which must not be forgotten and is as fresh and powerful as it was at the time it was recorded. Absolutely essential to all Blues lovers, but honestly Jazz-Rock and Brass-Rock fans should have a field day with this chest of treasures. A must!

Updated: 29/01/2019Posted: 14/01/2016

CD 14 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

GIL EVANS / ORCHESTRA ~ PLAYS THE MUSIC OF JIMI HENDRIX (EXPANDED EDITION) RCA 63872 (Barcode: 090266387229) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1974 - 1975 Released: 2005 Pianist / composer / arranger / bandleader Gil EvansFind albums by this artist was surely one of the most forward-thinking and open-minded Jazz Masters, who were able to overcome the typical American Jazz snobbery and keep their ears wide-open to anything of interest that was happening outside of the genre´s stifling ramparts. His revolutionary work with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, one of the first examples of cross-genre music making and amalgamation of World Music elements into Jazz earned him his initial glory and recognition, but Evans remained a pioneer for the rest of his life. He was also the first Jazz personality to recognize and publically acknowledge his admiration of the talents of Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, not only as an exceptional guitarist but also as a great composer. Evans approached Hendrix with a cooperation proposal, which Jimi accepted wholeheartedly, but alas Jimi´s untimely death turned all plans into unfulfilled dreams. However, in spite of the disappointment, Evans decided to pay tribute to the genius of Hendrix by recording this exceptional album of arrangements of music composed by Hendrix, performed by his orchestra. This stunning example of Jazz-Rock Fusion is completely different from most other efforts pursued at the time worldwide and demonstrates a perfect marriage between Jazz and Rock in the orchestral realm. The orchestra, which included mostly young and up-coming Jazz virtuosi, features such illustrious players as guitarists John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist and Ryo KawasakiFind albums by this artist, trumpeters Lew SoloffFind albums by this artist and Marvin PetersonFind albums by this artist, saxophonists David SanbornFind albums by this artist and George AdamsFind albums by this artist, drummers Bruce DitmasFind albums by this artist and Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist and many more. Hearing the music of Hendrix in this fantastic setting is an exceptional musical expedition, especially for people who are familiar with the original recordings by Hendrix. Evans finds new hidden facets in this music, which only a great musician can discover, and shares them with the listener, taking him on a journey of discovery. This expanded edition presents all the material on the original LP in unabridged form and adds alternative takes as bonuses. Exceptional stuff and a must for any true music lover!

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks 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

MIKE STERN ~ GIVE AND TAKE WOUNDED BIRD 3036 (Barcode: 664140303621) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1997 Released: 2007 9th album (8th on Atlantic) by American guitarist / composer Mike SternFind albums by this artist, who has been one of the most prominent figures in the Jazz and Fusion fields for the last three decades. His virtuoso performances and excellent writing are a source of musical joy and his consistently superb standards serve as a model, followed by generations of young guitarist around the world. On this album Stern continues the path established by its predecessors, presenting a set of his excellent compositions and three standards performed by a superb group of musicians, which includes saxophonists Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist and David SanbornFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Gil GoldsteinFind albums by this artist, bassist John PatitucciFind albums by this artist, drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and percussionist Don AliasFind albums by this artist. As usual, the compositions move between atmospheric ballads to up-tempo energetic excursions, performed with finesse and passion. This is classic Fusion and Stern´s guitar playing is simply overwhelmingly excellent, with great flow, emotion and technical virtuosity. A must for any Fusion enthusiast!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend