Record Reviews
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  | CANNONBALL ADDERLEY ~ BURNIN` IN BORDEAUX: LIVE IN FRANCE 1969
ELEMENTAL MUSIC 5990448 (Barcode: 8435395504130) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2024
This is an archival live album by American Jazz saxophonist Cannonball AdderleyFind albums by this artist, recorded with his quintet, which also includes his brother, trumpeter Nat AdderleyFind albums by this artist, Austrian pianist Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, bassist Victor GaskinFind albums by this artist and drummer Roy McCurdyFind albums by this artist. The 2CD album presents twelve tracks, a mixture of standards and original material, mostly composed by Zawinul. As usual with the Elemental MusicFind albums on this label releases, the album is accompanied by a booklet with interviews, photographs and essays with historical background about the music. The sound quality of the live recordings is certainly good enough to enjoy the music.
The album offers a splendid occasion to hear Adderley with Zawinul, shortly before he left to found Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, after spending most of the decade in Cannonball Adderley’s and Nat Adderley’s groups, recording numerous albums with both of them and composing a huge part of their material.
The quintet performs with passion and complete control of their faculties, as appropriate for such professionals. By the time this music was recorded, the material was getting somewhat out of sync with the dramatic developments on the Jazz scene, with Free Jazz and Jazz-Rock Fusion rapidly taking over the somewhat rusty Bebop and Hard Bop stylistics, but nevertheless the Adderley Brothers were still a force not to be taken lightly, and certainly able to provide the listeners with exciting and worthwhile musical experience.
Overall, this is an exciting time capsule, presenting mainstream American Jazz at the very end of the 1960s, just before the scene would enter a succession of dramatic changes, in which only a minority of the musicians will take part willingly and enthusiastically, and the rest would try to carry on the music further on the same path.
| | Updated: 26/05/2025Posted: 26/05/2025 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CANNONBALL ADDERLEY ~ POPPIN` IN PARIS: LIVE AT L`OLYMPIA 1972
ELEMENTAL MUSIC 5990449 (Barcode: 8435395504147) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2024
This is an archival live album by the great American saxophonist / composer / bandleader Cannonball AdderleyFind albums by this artist, recorded with his quintet, which also included his brother, trumpeter Nat AdderleyFind albums by this artist, keyboardist George DukeFind albums by this artist, bassist Walter BookerFind albums by this artist and drummer Roy McCurdyFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tracks, recorded during two sets on October 25, 1972, at the legendary L`Olympia concert hall, performed as part of the Paris Jazz Festival. Most of the music was composed by Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, the former keyboardist of the quintet, one tune is by Duke, another one by Nat Adderley and one is a standard. The album features, as usual, an extended booklet with interviews, articles by Jazz journalists, superb historic photographs and other background information.
The album presents the music Cannonball Adderley recorded with his last quintet, in the last four years of his life (1972 to 1975 - he died suddenly in August of 1975), which was documented on the albums released by the FantasyFind albums on this label label, with George Duke as the central figure of the quintet, who pushed the music into much more modern stylistic / post Bebop direction, adding elements of electric Funk and Groove. Duke was the most impressive instrumentalist in the quintet, which is plainly audible on this album as well. He gets most of the solo spots, which are all marvelous. Moving between the Adderley and Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist groups, Duke was simply one of the most vital American Jazz musicians in the 1970s.
Overall, this is a wonderful addition to the Cannonball Adderley recorded legacy. For the many of his followers it is of course a must, and although it does not reveal anything previously not captured on record, it is certainly a superb piece of Jazz history.
| | Updated: 09/01/2025Posted: 09/01/2025 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GEORGE DUKE ~ MY SOUL – THE COMPLETE MPS FUSION RECORDINGS
MPS 602517515048 (Barcode: 602517515048) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 - 1976 Released: 2008
US keyboardist George DukeFind albums by this artist is one of the most colorful and versatile figures on the Jazz-Rock Fusion scene. His career stretches ways back to the mid-1960s and lasts to this very day. Starting as a classic Jazz pianist, Duke gradually moved from straightforward Jazz into Jazz-Rock Fusion, abandoning the acoustic piano in favor of the electric one and later adding a myriad of synthesizers to his workshop. His stints with Jean-Luc PontyFind albums by this artist, Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist (twice) and Cannonball AdderleyFind albums by this artist (where he replaced Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist) in his formative years influenced his musical path tremendously and it was Zappa who pushed him towards using synthesizers and exploring new musical vistas.
Duke’s development and gradual change of style and musical vocabulary was brilliantly captured on his recordings for the legendary German MPSFind albums on this label label. His connection with MPS was quite accidental and recording for a small European label was quite unusual for US Artists at the time, but in retrospect Duke couldn’t have made a better decision, as the label allowed him total artistic freedom, which was almost impossible to achieve on the US scene. He recorded a total of nine albums for MPS, seven of which are collected in this superb Box Set.
His first recording for MPS dating from 1966 was still very much a classic Jazz affair, which stylistically does not belong to his Fusion period, was not included here (perhaps a correct decision as far as the title goes, but as it is still unavailable on CD, it would be nice to have it reissued as well). The last recording for MPS, a solo keyboards project, is also omitted, for contractual bullshit reasons, as it caused a big legal dispute at the time, with Duke changing labels from MPS to EpicFind albums on this label. That album was reissued as “The 1976 Solo Keyboard AlbumFind albums with this title” on the Wounded BirdFind albums on this label label (the original MPS title was “The DreamFind albums with this title”).
However, the remaining seven albums (“SolusFind albums with this title” and “The Inner SourceFind albums with this title”, which were released together as a double LP, “Faces In ReflectionFind albums with this title”, “FeelFind albums with this title”, “I Love The Blues, She Heard Me CryFind albums with this title”, “The Aura Will PrevailFind albums with this title” and “Liberated FantasiesFind albums with this title”) recorded between April 1971 and January 1976 are included in their entirety, beautifully remastered. These four CDs include such an immense amount of music, which is so versatile stylistically and conceptually, that it constitutes a tremendous and essential document of the era.
As far as Duke’s playing and even more importantly his compositional skills, this is a beautiful portrait of an Artist, which every fan and music lover will cherish. The players on the sessions present here constitute a long list of some of the best Jazz and Fusion musicians active at the time, too long to be included here. For the inquisitive listeners let me just mention that even Frank Zappa is present (albeit incognito) on two tracks, as are many members of his Mothers Of InventionFind albums by this artist. There is something for everyone here and overall this Box Set is one unadulterated, intense plateful of fun and musical ingenuity. Absolutely essential!
Side Note
The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet.
In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker.
Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace.
In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically.
Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.
| | Updated: 28/05/2025Posted: | CD 4 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | FRIEDRICH GULDA ~ DONAU SO BLUE
MPS 4029759097327 (Barcode: 4029759097327) ~ AUSTRIA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2014
This is a reissue of a little known and quite bizarre album by Austrian pianist / composer Friedrich GuldaFind albums by this artist, best known as famous Classical Music pianist, who also flirted with the Jazz idiom. This album was recorded in a classic piano trio with an Austrian rhythm section: bassist Johann Anton RettenbacherFind albums by this artist and drummer Manfred JoselFind albums by this artist. Gulda also performs weird vocals, which move between recitation and singing, under the pseudonym Albert GolowinFind albums by this artist. The trio performs six pieces, five of which are original composition by Gulda and one is little know composition by Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, who of course was also Austrian.
Overall the album is only marginally Jazz oriented, and it includes vaudeville, humor and folklore elements, but also some stretches of straightforward Jazz. Gulda was of course a brilliant pianist, but never really grasped the Jazz idiom properly. Nevertheless this album is a great example of the open-mindedness of the record label and of Gulda´s unpredictability and weirdness, for which he was famous.
Overall this a piece of nostalgia, which collectors of the releases on the legendary MPS Records will find very attractive and rewarding due to its scarcity today.
Side Note
The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet.
In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker.
Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace.
In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically.
Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.
| | Updated: 27/05/2018Posted: 11/10/2016 | CD 1 Slipcase 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 |
  | JAZZ Q ~ ELEGIE (ELEGY) (EXPANDED EDITION)
GAD 045 (Barcode: 5901549197594) ~ CZECHOSLOVAKIA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 - 1976 Released: 2016
This is a reissue of the 4th album by the legendary Czechoslovak Jazz-Rock Fusion band Jazz QFind albums by this artist, led by keyboardist / composer Martin KratochvilFind albums by this artist, which also included guitarist Frantisek FranclFind albums by this artist, bassist Premysl FauknerFind albums by this artist and drummer Libor LaunFind albums by this artist. Several guest musicians also participated on selected tracks. The original album comprised of eight original compositions, all by Kratochvil, which are presented here in their remastered form on the first CD of the 2CD set. The second CD collects live recordings by the group, which were previously released on two festival compilations, a couple of radio recordings, which are previously unreleased and fourteen tracks which were recorded as a soundtrack to the movie entitled "Hriste", all also previously unreleased.
This album is undoubtedly one of the best Jazz-Rock Fusion albums ever recorded, not only behind the Iron Curtain, but worldwide. It offers the essence of the most advanced Fusion "spirit", which reached its apogee in the mid 1970s, defined by recordings by Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist (Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist), John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist (Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist), Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist (Weather ReportFind albums by this artist) and of course countless lesser known musicians, who contributed to the genre´s rapid development. Kratochvil and his Jazz Q ensemble managed to distill the Fusion elements and incorporate them within European aesthetics, which resulted in a much calmer and more lyrical form. Based on beautiful melodic themes, with solid harmonic structures and sophisticated expanded suite-like structures, this music is as good as Fusion ever got in its lifespan, with most of what has been offered under the genre´s banner later on was a sad imitation of the past.
Kratochvil´s brilliant compositions, combined with his virtuosic keyboards technique and deep musical sensitivity and elegance, are simply irresistible. Supported by an excellent team of band members and guests, each of whom contributed his own layer to the final result, he was able to create a masterpiece, which has a few rivals to this day and sound as good today as it did at the time it was released. It is definitely one of the most well aging Fusion albums out there.
The bonus material on this album is every step as good as the original album and offers a wonderful opportunity to get better and deeper acquainted with Kratochvil and his band at the time. The diversity and richness of his compositions is fully exposed here, and the fact that this music is finally available for us to enjoy is a miracle in every sense.
This album is an absolute must to every Fusion fan on this planet (and perhaps beyond), especially since at the time of its release most music fans living on the West side of the Iron Curtain were completely oblivious as to what was happening on the East side. Now is the time to finally discover what was missed. Essential stuff!
| | Updated: 13/01/2025Posted: 18/03/2017 | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | EMIL MANGELSDORFF & ALBERT MANGELSDORFF ~ EARLY DISCOVERIES
SWR JAZZHAUS 459 (Barcode: 730099045957) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1953 - 1963 Released: 2018
This is a wonderful archive album by Godfathers of German Jazz, brothers Emil MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist (saxophone) and Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist (trombone). The 2CD album presents live ad studio recordings from the vaults of the German SWR broadcasting corporation, captured between 1953 and 1963 and produced by my Friend and Mentor Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist. The various combos include the who’s who of the pioneering German Jazz musicians of the post WWII era, such as saxophonists Joki FreundFind albums by this artist, Hans KollerFind albums by this artist (Austrian resident in Germany) and Heinz SauerFind albums by this artist, clarinetist Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist, bassist Peter TrunkFind albums by this artist, drummer Joe NayFind albums by this artist and many others.
The first CD presets twelve tracks recorded by the Albert Mangelsdorff quintet from 1961, which plays four original compositions by Albert Mangelsdorff and eight standards. The music offers the glimpse of how European Jazz musicians interpreted the American Jazz tradition, mostly Bebop influenced, nearing the inevitable departure towards the more advanced modern European Jazz.
The second CD presents three tracks by the German All Stars twelve-piece band (with Mangelsdorff brothers as members), all composed by Freund, and one track by the Albert Mangelsdorff / Peter Trunk duo composed by Albert Mangelsdorff, all recorded in 1963. Next come four tracks by the Joki Freund sextet (with Mangelsdorff brothers as members) playing four original compositions by Freund, recorded in 1957. This is followed by a track by the 1956 version of the German All Stars band, followed by another duo track by Albert Mangelsdorff and Hungarian (resident in Germany) guitarist Attila ZollerFind albums by this artist, recorded in 1953. The last three tracks offer a super-rare appearance by the Austrian pianist Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist recorded in 1957, before his departure to the US and world fame.
All the music is excellently recorded and offers a superb glimpse at the German Jazz scene at the late 1950s / early 1960s, when the European Jazz scene was making its formative first steps towards the independence from the American tradition, after mastering its trademarks. There is a plethora of wonderful solos and ensemble performances present, as well as examples of Albert Mangelsdorff’s love of the duo format, which dominated his entire career.
Overall this is a brilliant document of the era and a must to all European Jazz fans, interested in the history and the process of its development. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 29/12/2023Posted: 05/04/2021 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | OLES BROTHERS & PIOTR ORZECHOWSKI ~ WATERFALL
AUDIO CAVE 2020/011 (Barcode: 5908298549094) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2020
This is the debut album by a "dream come true" Polish Jazz piano trio, which combines the forces of the brilliant rhythm section comprising of twin brothers Marcin OlesFind albums by this artist on bass and Bartlomiej OlesFind albums by this artist on drums (collectively known as Oles BrothersFind albums by this artist) with one of Poland´s most idiosyncratic, expressive and open-minded pianists Piotr OrzechowskiFind albums by this artist. It is therefore not surprising that the expectations from the music produced by this trio reach the zenith as far as Polish Jazz scene is concerned.
As the subtitle of this album ("Music Of Joe Zawinul") discloses, the subject of the album is the music composed by Austrian composer / keyboardist Josef Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, who left Austria in 1959 and moved to where Jazz "was happening", soon to become one of the most prominent musicians on the American scene, playing with Cannonball AdderleyFind albums by this artist and then Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, before forming the revolutionary ensemble Weather ReportFind albums by this artist and later Zawinul SyndicateFind albums by this artist.
Despite his success in America, Zawinul was in many respects a tragic figure as his European background and musical tradition never truly allowed him to integrate within American Jazz. Over the years he composed a superb body of music that attested to his European foundations, which was never fully understood by his fellow musicians at the time. Therefore the recognition of the European spirit in the music of Zawinul, which is fully recognized and openly stated by the creators of this album, offers an important historical and intellectual testimonial beyond the musical layer. This approach leads of course to a completely novel and unprecedented interpretation of Zawinul´s music, dominant to such extent that most music listeners familiar with these compositions in their original recorded form will probably not recognize these compositions easily (if at all) on this album.
As a result, the listeners are exposed to a completely new depth and beauty of Zawinul´s compositions, a presentation which deserves a highest respect for its ingenuity and boldness, qualities that are not surprising in case of Oles Brothers and Orzechowski.
The performances are of course absolutely stellar, with every single note and sound perfectly placed within the musical kaleidoscope. The clarity of the sound and the total involvement of these three musicians is absolutely phenomenal, standing apart from almost everything else one can find on record elsewhere. It seems that the magic touch of Oles Brothers and Orzechowski combined becomes not only a sum of their sublime qualities but rather their product
A word of warning for listener´s expecting anything like what Zawinul´s music sounded originally – this album demands a completely different level of involvement, concentration and open-mindedness.
Of course this is an immediate favorite as far as I am concerned, and as the year (dreadful 2020) nears its most welcome ending, this album jumps straight into the small heap of top albums of the year. It is a true revelation and I feel proud to be able to call the makers of this magnificent music my Friends. Thank you, as always!
| | Updated: 19/12/2020Posted: 19/12/2020 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACO PASTORIUS ~ JACO PASTORIUS
EPIC 64977 ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1976
1st album and one of the most revolutionary and influential Jazz debuts of all time. It takes about 10 seconds into the first track to understand that the role of the bass as an instrument and perhaps the entire Jazz idiom will not stay the same after this music hits the ears of the listeners. But it is not only the virtuosity of Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist as a player and his Promethean approach to playing the instrument, but also his skills as a composer and arranger, all these at the age of 25, that make this album and the man so unique. Pastorius presents here a widely diverse set of compositions, ranging in style from Soul / Rock to Classical, all perfectly crafted and surprisingly mature. A long list of superb Jazz players (Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist, Don AliasFind albums by this artist and Hubert LawsFind albums by this artist to mention but a few) and classical string players were involved in making of this album, but the most sympathetic and supportive role was played by pianist Herbie Hancock, who is the main soloist – often more dominant than Pastorius himself. This album shook the entire Jazz (and Rock) world and it is no wonder that as a result Pastorius was asked to join the best band on the scene at that time – Weather ReportFind albums by this artist – where he stayed for about six years as an equal partner and a third lead voice alongside Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist and Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist. What a tragedy it was to hear about Jaco’s death in 1987 just over a mere decade after this masterpiece was recorded, mentally ill and addicted to drugs. This album belongs to the Pantheon of Jazz recordings and is an absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | FRITZ PAUER ~ BLUES INSIDE OUT
MPS 602498112649 (Barcode: 602498112649) ~ AUSTRIA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2003
This is a reissue / remaster of an album by Austrian pianist / composer Fritz PauerFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic piano trio format with two American expatriates: bassist Jimmy WoodeFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony InzalacoFind albums by this artist. All three musicians lived at the time of the recording in Germany, which was one of the most important European Jazz centers. The album presents eight tracks, with three of the being original compositions by Pauer, two each are by Woode and Inzalaco and one is a standard. The album was produced by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist, who also served as the session’s sound engineer. This was the last album Pauer recorded for the legendary MPSFind albums on this label label.
The music is deeply rooted in the Jazz tradition, but Pauer takes it way further into the European Jazz aesthetics, with his extraordinary improvisations, which often move briefly as far as Free Jazz, swiftly returning to the melodic swing. The resulting see-saw between Swing and more open playing is truly delightful, and the excellent American rhythm section supports the leader with ease and elegance. Pauer, along with Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, were the most internationally renowned Austrian Jazz pianists.
Overall, this is a fascinating snapshot of the German Jazz scene at the early 1970s, which was a magnet for Jazz musicians from all over Europe and the US, and served as a breeding ground for the exploding European Jazz. For classic Jazz piano trio fans, this album is a delight from start to finish.
Side Note
The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet.
In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker.
Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace.
In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically.
Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.
| | Updated: 18/06/2025Posted: 18/06/2025 | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | PINK FREUD ~ ALCHEMIA
UNIVERSAL 602517578845 (Barcode: 602517578845) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2007
This is the 6th album by Polish ensemble Pink FreudFind albums by this artist, which managed to gain considerable popularity on the local scene, both with Jazz and non-Jazz listeners and critics alike. Formed in 1998 by bassist / composer Wojtek MazolewskiFind albums by this artist, the group changed its lineup several times over the years but succeeded to maintain its popularity and gradually achieved a cult following and a large fan base. Musically the group offers a unique amalgam of genres and musical directions, originating with Jazz and improvisation, but also encompassing elements of Punk Rock, dub, jungle, drum and bass and electronic music. In many respects it is a direct continuation of the Yass movement, which flourished in Poland in the 1990s, and could be referred to as post-Yass. Since Yass was initially intended as an expression of rebellion against the established Jazz canons, which many young musicians felt to be stagnant, post-Yass took the rebellion a bit further out, emphasizing the cross-genre trend, groove and even dance elements, which resulted in the music being much more widely accessible. As opposed to the intellectual image that Jazz is usually associated with, this music is intelligent fun music, with some Jazz associations, and should be treated as such, no more and no less. This album, which was recorded live at the legendary Jazz club "Alchemia" in Krakow, finds Pink Freud in an expanded quintet lineup, with trumpeter Tomasz ZietekFind albums by this artist and drummer Kuba StaruszkiewiczFind albums by this artist supported by saxophonist Tomasz DudaFind albums by this artist (who recorded with the group earlier) and brilliant young keyboardist Marcin MaseckiFind albums by this artist. Five of the six expanded tracks (all over 10 minutes long) on this album are originals by the band members and the remaining one is their interpretation of a Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist tune. In many respects this album is a "back to the roots" experience for the band, which returns to extensive Jazz improvisation, which although always present at the root of their music, was often subdued on their previous albums. The special atmosphere and ambience of the club and above all the presence of Masecki transform the band into a full-fledged Jazz combo and a great one at that. The trumpet / saxophone front line enables the players to stretch out, supported comfortably by a full rhythm section, with Masecki supplying some breathtaking solo spots as well. The emotional and more importantly musical level of the band heard here surpasses everything they managed to achieve earlier, and is truly exquisite. True to their basic approach, the band emphasizes personal expression and spontaneity rather that elaborate skills or scholarly musical background. For listeners, who can appreciate such approach to music, this is quite an experience. But this music is important enough to be heard by any music connoisseur and definitely should be re-visited for in-depth listening experience. Great stuff!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | KRZYSZTOF SADOWSKI ~ NA KOSMODROMIE
GAD 030 (Barcode: 5901549197389) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2015
This is a reissue (first time on CD) of the second album by Polish Jazz keyboardist / composer Krzysztof SadowskiFind albums by this artist recorded with an ensemble called Organ GroupFind albums by this artist, which also included flautist / vocalist Liliana UrbanskaFind albums by this artist, Dutch trumpeter Eddie EngelsFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Wlodzimierz NahornyFind albums by this artist, bass guitarist Pawel DabrowskiFind albums by this artist, drummer Tomasz ButowttFind albums by this artist and congas player Jozef GawrychFind albums by this artist.
This album was not released at the time as part of the legendary "Polish Jazz" series, for reasons that are way beyond the scope of this text. The original album included only six tracks, the first of which gave the album its title and was a twenty minutes long six parts suite originally found on side A of the LP. The five tracks on side B were all much shorter. All the compositions were originals, four composed by Sadowski and one each by Nahorny and Engels. This remastered reissue adds three bonus tracks recorded at the Polish Radio.
By the time this album was released the Polish Jazz scene was in a state of upheaval, torn between two extremes: Free Jazz on one side and Jazz-Rock Fusion on the other. Strangely this album presents a bit of both, since although conceptually belonging to the Jazz-Rock Fusion genre it features a few Free Form solos. Obviously Sadowski was shifting his organ playing stylistics from the traditional influences (Jimmy SmithFind albums by this artist) towards (then) contemporary keyboard approach represented by Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist or Weather ReportFind albums by this artist´s Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist. The use of vocalese, which was one of the trademarks of Polish Jazz at the time, utilized extensively by Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist in Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist´s ensemble, is only one of the parallels between these two pioneering Fusion bands active at the time.
The space exploration, which seems a bit strange as a subject matter of a Jazz album, was at the time one of the main pillars of the Socialist propaganda, which excitedly participated in the space race between USSR and USA, with an obvious winning side. Picking such a subject increased of course significantly the possibility to have one´s music released by the State controlled solitary record company in existence at the time in Poland (Polskie Nagrania).
In retrospect the albums is a great document of the time at which it was recorded, proving that in spite of the relative separation from what was happing beyond the Iron Curtain, Polish Jazz was responding rapidly to the changes in the Jazz idiom, often with ferocity and ingenuity, which were impossible to hold back by the political regime.
As usual it is my duty to thank GADFind albums on this label Records for taking care of the Polish Jazz heritage, who is sadly a lonely rider on that trail. This superb music definitely needs to be fondly remembered and discovered by new generations!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAROSLAW SMIETANA ~ SOUNDS & COLORS (POLISH JAZZ VOL.73)
POLSKIE RADIO 0533 (Barcode: 5901448115330) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1987 Released: 2005
This is an excellent album by Polish guitarist / composer Jaroslaw SmietanaFind albums by this artist, his first recording under his name in the legendary Polish Jazz series, although he already released two albums with his group Extra BallFind albums by this artist a decade earlier. Undoubtedly the best Polish Fusion guitar player, Smietana is also a great tunesmith; this album includes six of his wonderful compositions (and one standard), performed by a superb quartet, which includes side by side with the leader saxophonist Piotr BaronFind albums by this artist (one of future best Polish sax players), bassist Antoni DebskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Jacek PelcFind albums by this artist. The music is very similar to what one might expect from the best Fusion groups around at the time, especially Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, which is a clear model. The guitar (and occasional keyboards) - sax exchanges could be very easily mistaken for another Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist / Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist dialog. But there is enough originality here, both in the compositions and the performances, to dismiss any accusations of plagiarism. These excellent musicians are not to be taken for granted and overall this album is as good, if not better, that any other Fusion album recorded anywhere on this planet. Fusion fans will definitely enjoy this album with no reservations, but the general Jazz loving public should be able to have a great time with it as well. It lost nothing of its charm over time!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | UPPER AUSTRIAN JAZZ ORCHESTRA ~ IN THE SPIRIT OF HANS KOLLER
ATS 0918 (Barcode: 9005216009183) ~ AUSTRIA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2018 Released: 2018
This is an album by the veteran Austrian Jazz Big Band called The Upper Austrian Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist, which is a tribute to the Godfather of Austrian Jazz, saxophonist / composer / bandleader / painter Hans KollerFind albums by this artist, who is also the most internationally famous Austrian Jazzman (except perhaps for Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, which most people consider an American anyway). The album was recorded live at the legendary Viennese club Porgy & Bess and presents the orchestra, led by saxophonist Christian MaurerFind albums by this artist, in its full glory: four trumpets, five saxophones, four trombones and a rhythm section (piano / guitar / bass / drums). The double CD album presents fourteen superb compositions by the orchestra members, all inspired / based on original compositions by Koller.
Koller, who was one of the great pioneers of European Jazz, working with many German and other European musicians from the 1950s onwards recorded some of the most pivotal Jazz albums of the emerging European Jazz scene, some of them for the legendary MPSFind albums on this label label, truly deserves this loving tribute and it is great to see that his achievements are not forgotten.
The music, as expected, is absolutely sublime from start to finish, an exquisite example of European Big Band Jazz music, with sophisticated arrangements, clever balance between the sections, elegance and lyricism, all combined to create a powerful, moving experience.
Although recorded live, the orchestra manages to perform the intricate arrangements perfectly and with full emotional engagement. The performance offers many exquisite solos by the orchestra members and the music flows wonderfully for the entire duration, a true feast for the ears.
Although Austria is rarely at the center of attention as far as Jazz is concerned, this album clearly proves that the country has a lot to offer in that field. Over the years the Austrian Jazz schools educated generations of excellent musicians and the lively local scene is certainly worth checking out.
Many heartfelt thanks to Christian Maurer, who sent me a bunch of his recordings, enabling me to catch up with the Austrian Jazz scene, which I have admittedly neglected lately. Chapeau bas my friend – great job keeping the music alive!
| | Updated: 30/04/2019Posted: 14/04/2019 | CD 2 Mini-Sleeve 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 |
  | 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 |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ LIVE AT MONTREUX 1976
EAGLE VISION 629 (Barcode: 5034504962972) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2007
Every piece of music by the legendary Fusion pioneers Weather ReportFind albums by this artist is worth it’s weight in gold, and considering this one is a well filmed and well recorded brilliant performance at the Swiss Montreux Jazz Festival, this is truly a priceless addition to the band’s legacy. WR appeared twice at Montreux, this being the first of the two. The lineup is probably the strongest one of the band’s mid-life period, and includes Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist, Alex AcunaFind albums by this artist and Manolo BadrenaFind albums by this artist – the same band that was to record Heavy WeatherFind albums with this title a few months later. Everything that made WR great is evident here – the individual soloing, the incredible interplay and telepathic connection between the players, the great tunes and the total devotion to their music. It must have been pretty hot on the July night, as everybody sweats intensely, and the music is nothing but brilliant. I was lucky to see WR quite a few times, and this DVD is a great evidence of how incredible this band was live, even at times when their studio efforts suffered. This is an absolute must to all WR fans and all Fusion-heads out there. Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound and DTS, 84 minutes.
| | Updated: 17/06/2016Posted: | DVD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ LIVE IN BERLIN 1971
GAD 271 (Barcode: 5903068124884) ~ USA ~ Avant-Garde Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2023
This is a sensational 2CD live archival album by the legendary Fusion supergroup Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, captured soon after the release of their eponymous debut album just a few months earlier. The lineup includes Austrian keyboardist Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, American saxophonist Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, Czech bassist Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist, American drummer Alphonse MouzonFind albums by this artist and Brazilian percussionist Dom Um RomaoFind albums by this artist, who replaced the founding member, also Brazilian percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist. The album presents thirteen tracks, on three of which the quintet is expanded into an octet with the presence of Swedish trombonist Eje ThelinFind albums by this artist and British saxophonists Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist and John SurmanFind albums by this artist.
This particular album is completely unique for several reasons. This early lineup of Weather Report has almost no other live recordings, except for the Japanese only “Live In TokyoFind albums with this title” album. The music is characterized by highly improvised, often completely Free Jazz approach, before the group gradually shifted into the more melodic / Funky vein, which sounded completely different from the early period. Also the presence of the three musicians from outside the group’s lineup is of course unprecedented. Additionally, the fact that half of the tracks here last for well over ten minutes in duration, and the entire album lasts for two hours, emphasizes the highly improvised nature of the music. In short, this album presents mostly the less known side of Weather Report, which reflects their most ambitious, creative and challenging period.
It is worth to remember that although the group was formed in the US, it was never a typical American act, and when all the European elements were finally gone, it lost most of its initial impact before eventually falling apart. On the other hand, if the group would have continued in the same direction of advanced improvisation, it probably would have never achieved the popularity and fame they did achieve at their peak.
Overall, this album is a true revelation in every respect, and for the many Weather Report fans worldwide, it is an eye (ear) opener, which they can’t miss. The fact that it was released by a Polish reissues label GADFind albums on this label Records speaks volumes of the label’s initiative to uncover past musical treasures. This music is beyond essential!
| | Updated: 05/01/2024Posted: 05/01/2024 | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ LIVE IN BERLIN 1975
ART OF GROOVE 80020 (Barcode: 885513800206) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2010
This is a live recording by the legendary Fusion ensemble Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, captured during the Berliner Jazztage Festival, at the transition period between their original incarnation and their entry into the more Funk and Groove oriented period, but just before bassist Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist joined the band, which would lock their classic mid-period which lasted between 1976 and 1982. The lineup captured here consists of keyboardist Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, bassist Alphonso JohnsonFind albums by this artist, drummer Chester ThompsonFind albums by this artist and percussionist Alex AcunaFind albums by this artist. That particular lineup in fact never appeared on any album recorded by the band. Therefore this show captured by the German ZDF, presented here on CD and DVD, is of particular interest to Weather Report fans.
The music is right in between the two periods of the band: it features the groovy bass lines that characterize the second period but it also ventures into extensive and pretty Free improvised passages, which are less structured than the music of Weather Report that was about to follow and characterize the first period. As a result this live show is pretty unique and adventurous, as opposed to later live recordings by the band. Both Zawinul and Shorter play some pretty wild solo parts, including Zawinul´s acoustic piano solo, which is almost never present on other live recordings.
In short this is not to be missed by the Weather Report fans, since in addition to the very interesting content the music is relatively well recorded and the balance between the instruments, which most live Weather Report recordings suffer from, if well captured this time. The only disadvantage is the fact that the music last only for just over forty minutes. Definitely some of the best live Weather Report moments are waiting herein to be heard.
| | Updated: 17/06/2016Posted: 17/06/2016 | CD+DVD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ LIVE IN COLOGNE 1983
ART OF GROOVE 80052 (Barcode: 885513800527) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1983 Released: 2011
This is a live recording by the legendary Fusion ensemble Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, captured by the German WDR at the beginning of final period of their activity and presents the last steady lineup of the group: keyboardist Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, bassist Victor BaileyFind albums by this artist, drummer Omar HakimFind albums by this artist and percussionist Jose RossyFind albums by this artist. The music is spread across two CDs and is excellently recorded, being probably one of the best live Weather Report recordings as far sound quality is concerned.
This revitalized lineup, formed following the departure of Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist, created an influx of new creative energies into the group that was slowly going out of steam. This music was recorded before the album "ProcessionFind albums with this title" was recorded in the studio by this lineup, and includes several early version of the album´s tunes, but also rearranged versions of Weather Report favorites. The band is in excellent shape and seems to be very excited and relaxed, which if felt in the music. In addition the album also features a wonderful Zawinul / Shorter duet as well as a short Rossy / Hakim duet, which of course can only be heard on live recordings such as this one.
There is very little live Weather Report material available from this period and therefore this album is a true gem for the many fans of the group, filling many gaps. It is worth to remember that Weather Report never played bad music, contrary to what some people would like you to believe, which this album proves splendidly. Personally I remember hearing them at that time and those memories, compared to memories from gig in earlier periods always stood up to the challenge.
Overall this is a great tribute to the memory of one of the most important Fusion bands of all times, which deserves an honorable place in any decent record collection, especially of course in collections owned by the band´s numerous fans. In short this is a must have if you love or ever loved this band!
| | Updated: 18/06/2016Posted: 18/06/2016 | CD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ LIVE IN OFFENBACH 1978
ART OF GROOVE 80090 (Barcode: 885513800909) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2011
This is a live recording by the legendary Fusion ensemble Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, captured when it enjoyed the peak of its popularity. The band in its kernel lineup 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 performs over two hours of their classic material. The show, captured by the German WDR, is presented here on two CDs and a DVD, which includes the same material as the CDs.
As I have already written extensively in my review of the Weather Report´s album "The Legendary Tapes: 1978-1981Find albums with this title", additional releases of the band´s live material are often quite problematic for a variety of reasons: the sound quality, performance quality and other considerations. The numerous fans of the band are therefore faced with the dilemma of craving for more previously unreleased material on one hand and getting recordings which are of problematic quality and basically offer nothing new beyond what was already revealed many times in the past on the other hand.
To put things in perspective, this is still Weather Report – one of the greatest Fusion bands ever, so the music is splendid all the way through, as expected. The only shortcoming of this release is the comparison with very similar live recordings, which present almost identical musical content in somewhat better quality, both sonically and artistically.
For die-hard Weather Report fans this is of course an absolute must have, but others who already own many live albums by the band, might think twice about it. Personally I enjoyed both the audio and the video presentations, but I am definitely far from being objective about something, that dominated the soundtrack of my life for many years.
| | Updated: 17/06/2016Posted: 17/06/2016 | 2CD+DVD 3 Digipak 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 |
  | 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 |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ THE COLUMBIA ALBUMS 1971-1975
SONY 886919934229 (Barcode: 886919934229) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1971 - 1975 Released: 2012
It is almost impossible to imagine contemporary music in general and Jazz in particular without the contribution made by Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, one of the most eminent, pioneering and revolutionary ensembles that ever existed. In the decade and a half that the band recorded and performed music together, they managed to set an example to entire generations of musicians, changing the face of music as we know it.
From day one Weather Report was different. Although it is considered an American band, in fact it included at any given time of its existence more members that were not American-born than those that were. They band´s basic concept was different from everything that was a standard at the time and put forward collective improvisation and multicultural musical approach rather than the standard theme followed by individual solos approach. Also the band kept constantly evolving, frequently changing lineups, styles and sound, totally unpredictable and free of any conventions.
Weather Report was formed by two musical friends, who knew each other for quite a while before their individual careers allowed them to join forces and make music together. Austrian-born keyboardist / composer Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist and American saxophonist / composer Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist had both paid their dues in top Jazz ensembles of the 1960s, most importantly both playing in the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist revolutionary ensemble of the "Bitches BrewFind albums with this title" period. Joined by the Czech-born bassist / composer Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist, the original band was born, with American drummer Alphonse MouzonFind albums by this artist and Brazilian-born percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist. The double drums / percussion team would be kept throughout the entire history of the band, with just one brief period when the lineup was just a quartet.
During the first five years of its existence Weather Report recorded six albums, including the live double LP, which was initially only released in Japan, all of which are included in this magnificent Box Set. The bonus tracks are taken from the two compilation albums: "Forecast: TomorrowFind albums with this title" and "Live And UnreleasedFind albums with this title", which were released in the 2000s. Vitous left the band at the end of this period, playing only on one track of the last album in this Box Set, which marked the end of the first phase of the band, which would soon enter a new phase when Jaco Pastorius joined Weather Report, a phase which is documented by the other Box Set of Weather Report albums called "The Columbia Albums 1976-1982Find albums with this title".
This Box Set is not only a holy grail of contemporary music, but also a sublime document of the music itself going through a perpetual change and transition. It is beyond recommendation, as its place on the pedestal of contemporary canon was already established long before these lines were written. Essential stuff!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 7 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEATHER REPORT ~ THE COLUMBIA ALBUMS 1976-1982
SONY 886979394025 (Barcode: 886979394025) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1976 - 1982 Released: 2011
When bassist / composer Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist joined the ranks of Weather ReportFind albums by this artist in 1976, a new phase of stability and prosperity opened for the band, which would last for almost the entire next seven years period and produce an incredible body of work, considered today as part of the classic Jazz, Fusion and Funk heritage. The six albums recorded during that period and included in this Box Set, including the live double LP, are all perfect examples of the band´s incredible writing and performing talents and their everlasting search for new sounds, musical explorations and means of expression.
Pastorius brought into the band not only his youthful energy, but also his unparalleled virtuosity, extreme rhythmic sensitivity and of course his compositions, which were every bit as good as those of the group founders keyboardist / composer Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist and saxophonist / composer Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist. His musical personality was in fact a perfect choice for the direction the band was taking already by the end of the previous phase, which meant more pre-composed melodic themes and more individual soloing, although the overall concept of group improvisation on top of a solid and resourceful rhythm section continued to apply.
With Shorter gradually taking a step back from the front line, allowing Zawinul to dominate the group´s repertoire with his compositions and musical direction, it was Pastorius who kept Weather Report as an organic group, rather than a Zawinul backup group, which they would eventually turn into following the departure of Pastorius at the end of this phase. In spite of these internal tensions and changes, in retrospect this phase in the group´s lifetime proved to be the most productive and also commercially successful, both as a recording and a touring act.
The bonus tracks used here come mostly from the compilation album "Live And UnreleasedFind albums with this title" and two are previously unreleased. This Box Set is a companion release to the "The Columbia Albums 1971-1975Find albums with this title" Box Set, which covers the first phase of the band´s activity. Hopefully the four remaining Weather Report albums, recorded 1983-1986, will also get a similar reissue treatment, to complete this seminal band´s complete discography.
This is an essential release and should be a part of any decent music collection, especially in view of its accessibility, which should appeal to quite a wide spectrum of listeners. They don´t make music like this any more…
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks 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 |
  | 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 |
  | ADAM WENDT AND FRIENDS ~ RHYTHM & JAZZ
SOLITON 862 (Barcode: 5901571098623) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2018 Released: 2018
This is an album by veteran Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer Adam WendtFind albums by this artist recorded in a quartet setting with pianist Wojciech NiedzielaFind albums by this artist, bassist Zbigniew WrombelFind albums by this artist and drummer Marcin JahrFind albums by this artist. American trumpeter Randy BreckerFind albums by this artist guests on two tracks and guitarist Dean BrownFind albums by this artist on one track. The album presents nine original compositions, all by Wendt. The album was beautifully recorded at the RecPublica Studios and engineered by Lukasz OlejarczykFind albums by this artist and offers a truly spectacular sound,
The music, as the title suggests, is all mainstream Jazz that emphasizes the Rhythm And Blues stream in American Jazz popular in the 1950s and 1960s. It is pretty astounding how American this music sounds, although it is completely "Made in Poland"! When blindfold tested this music might have been identified as a "lost" Cannonball AdderleyFind albums by this artist album. For the Jazz cognoscenti the Adderley´s great hit "Mercy, Mercy. Mercy" comes immediately to mind when this music plays, but we should remember it was written by Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, who was as European as they come. Niedziela´s vamping on this album and his piano parts are a great tribute to Zawinul.
The execution is absolutely perfect in every respect – the sound, the beat, the feel and everything else sounds like top American musicians at work. But considering the fact that these are original compositions, one can only take the hat off in full respect and admiration.
Although this album does not overall offer anything new or unexpected, it presents a truthful reproduction and a tribute to the lighter side of American Jazz, with originally contributed music, which does hold its ground perfectly. For the many enthusiasts, who still love this kind of Jazz, this album is a true delight and an irrefutable proof that "White Man Can Jump", especially if they are Polish.
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 29/12/2018 | CD 1 Digipak 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 |
  | JOE ZAWINUL ~ BROWN STREET
INTUITION 3450 (Barcode: 750447345027) ~ AUSTRIA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2006
This is an album by Austrian Jazz keyboardist / composer / bandleader Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, recorded live with a superb rhythm section comprising of American bassist Victor BaileyFind albums by this artist, (Peruvian born) percussionist Alex AcunaFind albums by this artist and drummer Nathaniel TownsleyFind albums by this artist and the great German WDR Big BandFind albums by this artist. The 2CD album presents ten original compositions, all by Zawinul, which span his entire career from his stint with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and his bands Weather ReportFind albums by this artist and Zawinul SyndicateFind albums by this artist. Following his return to Austria Zawinul opened a club in Vienna’s Hilton hotel called Zawinul’s Birdland, which is where this music was recorded in October 2005. This is one of the last recordings by Zawinul before his untimely death in 2007.
The music is a brilliant mixture of Jazz-World Fusion and Big Band Jazz and pays a great tribute to Zawinul’s compositional genius, in addition to his unparalleled keyboard magic. The Big Band arrangements are absolutely amazing, as are the performances, which makes the fact that these compositions have been recorded before irrelevant, as this new attire makes them sound completely fresh and worth being rediscovered. There is not one dull moment on this album and the soaring music is worth its weight in gold.
Overall, this album is full of wonderful music, brilliant performances and innovative Big Band arrangements, which should leave no true Jazz fan indifferent. For Zawinul fans and his many followers around the world this is an absolute must!
| | Updated: 31/08/2021Posted: 31/08/2021 | CD 6 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOE ZAWINUL ~ THE RISE & FALL OF THE THIRD STREAM / MONEY IN THE POCKET
RHINO 71675 (Barcode: 081227167523) ~ AUSTRIA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1965 - 1967 Released: 1994
Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist arrived in the US in 1958, after being one of the first European musicians to win a scholarship to Berklee, but he left the school almost immediately and became active on the US jazz scene as pianist, arranger and composer. He played with Maynard FergusonFind albums by this artist, Slide HamptonFind albums by this artist and Dinah WashingtonFind albums by this artist before landing on the piano chair with Cannonball AdderleyFind albums by this artist’s quintet, where he stayed for 9 years (1961-1969). Towards the end of his Adderley days Zawinul played for almost 2 years (1969-1970) with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, participating in the seminal recordings Miles made at that period.
In 1970 Zawinul formed the legendary Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, which would revolutionize the jazz and fusion genres and continue (in a slightly different direction) the pioneering breakthroughs made by Davis. Over the years Zawinul recorded only three albums as a leader (on AtlanticFind albums on this label and VortexFind albums on this label), two of which are included here (The eponymous album from 1969 was really the starting point for Weather Report). Money In The PocketFind albums with this title, recorded in 1965, finds him in a setting similar to his Adderley’s quintet gig both musically and personally. He uses the quintet’s bass player (Sam JonesFind albums by this artist) and drummer (Louis HayesFind albums by this artist) and adds three excellent horn players: Blue MitchellFind albums by this artist (trumpet), Joe HendersonFind albums by this artist (tenor sax) and Pepper AdamsFind albums by this artist (baritone sax). The sextet plays a great set of bebop material, including mostly original material by Zawinul, Jones and Henderson and two standards. Zawinul’s elegant and soulful piano playing sets a firm basis for the music’s graceful flow.
The Rise & Fall Of The Third StreamFind albums with this title, recorded in 1967, is a completely different album and a most ambitious and pioneering jazz venture for the time. It involves a meeting between the American jazz tradition and the European classical tradition, but as the title suggests it was meant to be a new kind of synthesis to the one attempted earlier in the US by Gunther SchullerFind albums by this artist and named “The Third Stream”, which seemed to be forced and artificial rather than natural. A meeting between Zawinul and American classical composer William FisherFind albums by this artist led to the two of them working together in an attempt to create a natural synthesis of the two musical worlds. The project involved a jazz ensemble and a string quartet, playing music composed and arranged by Fisher. The jazz ensemble includes Zawinul on acoustic and electric piano, Jimmy OwensFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Richard DavisFind albums by this artist on bass, Roy McCurdyFind albums by this artist and Freddie WaitsFind albums by this artist on drums, Warren SmithFind albums by this artist on percussion and Fisher on tenor sax. The result is a stunning piece of music, a completely new and previously attempted kind of musical vista.
In retrospect one can of course hear the seeds of what Zawinul will be doing just a couple of years later with Davis and then Weather Report. Although sadly overlooked and rarely mentioned, this is a seminal album in every respect and surely ahead of its time in every respect. For the intelligent jazz lover, interested in the forces that forged the jazz revolution of the late 1960s this is an absolute must!
| | Updated: 09/01/2025Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOE ZAWINUL ~ ZAWINUL
ATLANTIC 81375 (Barcode: 075678137525) ~ AUSTRIA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 1994
This sadly overlooked and almost forgotten masterpiece by Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist is one of the most pivotal recordings of the emerging Jazz-Rock Fusion movement. Following Zawinul’s stint with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist (with whom he recorded the timeless masterpiece In A Silent WayFind albums with this title), he was looking for a new environment to express his unique music vision, which combined his European classical music heritage and the American jazz tradition, spiced by the funky and rock rhythmic patterns. His vision was to be realized soon, when the greatest Fusion group of all times – Weather ReportFind albums by this artist – was formed just weeks after this album was recorded.
In fact this album could (or rather should) be considered the first Weather Report album for several reasons: two soon to be Weather Report founding members – Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist (bass) and Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist (saxophone) take part in these sessions and the musical direction of the future group is basically all present here already. The main difference is that Zawinul decided to invite his ex-Davis partner Herbie Hancock to play along with him on this album, making it a double keyboards affair. The effect of two exceptional keyboards players soloing in tandem and in parallel creates a magic atmosphere, reminiscent of course of the Davis recordings. Other prominent musicians taking part in these sessions include the great Wood ShawFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Walter BookerFind albums by this artist on bass, Joe ChambersFind albums by this artist and Billy HartFind albums by this artist on drums, etc.
All the performances are of course absolutely brilliant, with Vitous contributing some superb bow solos, which compliment the music perfectly. I have no idea why this album is not given its proper importance as a true classic, but in my book this is an absolutely essential piece of music.
| | Updated: 31/08/2021Posted: | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
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