Record Reviews
21 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | 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 |
  | MICHAEL BRECKER ~ NEARNESS OF YOU: THE BALLAD BOOK
VERVE 549705 (Barcode: 731454970525) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2001
Michael Brecker is considered one of the top US saxophone players and innovators. His illustrious career goes back to the late 1960’s when he was a member of the little known Jazz-Rock Fusion band Dreams (similar to BS&T and Chicago but more funky) and later as co-leader of the Brecker Brothers band (with his brother trumpeter Randy Brecker). His career as a leader started rather late with the release of his debut (self-titled) solo album in 1986 and marked his return to the jazz mainstream. Since then he released a series of consistently excellent albums, this being his 8th. With a stellar lineup including Pat Metheny on guitar, Herbie Hancock on piano, Charlie Haden on bass and Jack DeJohnette on drums Brecker presents an all- ballad repertoire, which of course is a great challenge for even the most accomplished players. Of course in his case the listener has nothing to worry about, as he passes the test with flying colors. His (and his band members) playing is perfect all the way through, lush and sensuous but always sensitive to the melody’s special ambience. A very nice surprise comes in the guest appearance (on two of the songs) by the veteran singer / songwriter James Taylor, who performs one of his everlasting songs and the title song. Listening to this album is nothing but bliss and pleasure, a true jazz gem.
Side Note: In 2005 Michael Brecker was diagnosed with a rare blood cancer and is fighting for his life to this day. Thousands of musicians and fans underwent blood tests (myself included) in search for a suitable donor for a marrow transplant for Michael, so far with no positive match. My thoughts and best wishes for a speedy recovery are with him always.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAEL BRECKER ~ TWO BLOCKS FROM THE EDGE
IMPULSE! 260 (Barcode: 011105026024) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1998 Released: 1998
Excellent album by Brecker with his quartet, which includes musicians from the younger generation of US jazz players: Joey Calderazzo on piano, James Genus on bass and Jeff Watts on drums. Veteran percussionist Don Alias joins the quartet to add his ornaments. Brecker and Calderazzo split the compositions performed and the players seem to have a great time throughout the entire session. Brecker plays several excellent solos in the best post-Coltrane tradition and the piano solos are brilliant as well. With the material being exceptionally strong this album is considered by many Brecker’s fans to be his strongest solo release to date. This is one of those albums where nothing can go wrong and the listener’s satisfaction is guaranteed. Recommended!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | DREAMS ~ DREAMS / IMAGINE MY SURPRISE
BGO 0940 (Barcode: 5017261209405) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2010
The fantastic US Jazz-Rock ensemble DreamsFind albums by this artist, which unfortunately recorded only two albums, both included here, was one of the best examples of the American branch of Brass-Rock, a relatively short-lived sub genre of Jazz-Rock, which also included such superb ensembles like Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, ChicagoFind albums by this artist, ChaseFind albums by this artist and a few others. Dreams originated in NY and had a somewhat flexible lineup of associated musicians, but the importance of these two albums is mainly due to the fact that they provided a debut recording opportunity to some of the genre´s most iconic figures: brothers -Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist (saxophone) and Randy BreckerFind albums by this artist (trumpet) - and drummer Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist. Other Dreams members were already established figures on the scene, like bassist Doug LubahnFind albums by this artist (DoorsFind albums by this artist), guitarist John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Don GrolnickFind albums by this artist. Other group members were keyboardist / guitarist Jeff KentFind albums by this artist, trombonist Barry RogersFind albums by this artist, vocalist Edward VernonFind albums by this artist, bassist Will LeeFind albums by this artist and guitarist / trumpeter Bob MannFind albums by this artist. Musically the group mixed genres freely, with Jazz, Funk, Rock and Soul adopted at will and beautifully arranged to create some of the most memorable sounds of the period. The music is just perfect; although spontaneous and improvised, every note is just exactly where it belongs, every drum beat precisely on time, every phrase brilliantly placed, every tempo change and every instrumental solo and above all the overall interplay are just what a music fun needs – pure genius. It is hard to believe that a bunch of young musician was capable of producing such magnificent music, but then on the other hand considering that Dreams seeded Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, Brecker BrothersFind albums by this artist and many other heroes of the Jazz and Fusion scene, perhaps one should not wonder. I own both these albums since the day they were released and have listened to them repeatedly over the years, always enjoying myself immensely and it was me who suggested to BGOFind albums on this label to reissue them – I´m glad they did! Now many more potential listeners have the opportunity to hear them as well – enjoy as this is essential stuff!
| | Updated: 28/02/2024Posted: | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MORDY FERBER ~ BEING THERE
HALF NOTE ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 2003
This is the 3rd album as a leader by Israeli guitarist / composer Mordy FerberFind albums by this artist, recorded with a fabulous group of excellent musicians, which includes the rhythm section comprising of bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Peter ErskineFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Brad HatfieldFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist and Norwegian Ole MathisenFind albums by this artist (on one track), percussionist Frank ColonFind albums by this artist and finally bassist Will LeeFind albums by this artist and Japanese trumpeter Tiger OkoshiFind albums by this artist (both on one track). The album presents nine tracks, all original compositions by the leader.
The music is a brilliant collection of beautiful tunes, highly melodic and touching, all superbly performed by all the participants. Although Ferber is the main soloists, this album is not about showing his extraordinary guitar skills, but more of a team effort, to present the compositions at the most harmonious setting. That does not mean, of course, that his guitar is not featured prominently, and for guitar lovers this album is an absolute delight from start to finish.
Also prominent is the extraordinary talent and unique feel of Eddie Gomez, who seems to be an ideal partner in crime herein. His work throughout the album, and especially the duo and trio tracks, where his bass is up front, are simply stunning. But all the musicians on this album seem to have a great time and play their hearts out.
Overall, this is a stunning album in every respect, which spotlights Ferber both as a brilliant guitarist with a unique sound and feel, and an excellent weaver of melodies, which are coherent and aesthetically pleasing. In a world, where true artistry is appreciated, this album should have reached every Jazz lover and guitar enthusiast the world over, but alas that is nor the case. But it is never too late to grab a copy – you won’t regret it!
| | Updated: 07/09/2024Posted: 07/09/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERBIE HANCOCK ~ THE NEW STANDARD
VERVE 988403 (Barcode: 602498840351) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 2005
After playing jazz standards throughout all his life (in addition to original music of course), Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist decided to record an album dedicated to his rendition of contemporary Pop songs, which in his opinion deserve to enter the standard songbook. The BeatlesFind albums by this artist, Steve WonderFind albums by this artist and scores of other songwriters active since the 1960’s composed thousands of songs worthy of becoming classics, yet the jazz standards to this day are mostly tunes written in the first half of the 20th century. Hancock selected a dreamy sextet of some of the best contemporary jazz Masters to take part in this recording, with Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist – sax, John ScofieldFind albums by this artist – guitar, Dave HollandFind albums by this artist – bass, Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist – drums and Don AliasFind albums by this artist – percussion. He takes the original tunes quite far from the source, transforming them into jazz with masterful touch and divine sensibility. Of course all the players perform beautifully, with Hancock taking a few fiery solos and so do Brecker and Scofield. The rhythm section provides solid and sophisticated background and the entire session just swings like there is no tomorrow. Absolutely delightful!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHRIS HINZE ~ SENANG
KEYTONE 794 (Barcode: 8713094793001) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1996
This is an album by Dutch flautist / keyboardist / composer / bandleader Chris HinzeFind albums by this artist, recorded with a plethora of guest musicians / friends from all over the world, including American saxophonist Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist, German pianist Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist, American saxophonist Charlie MarianoFind albums by this artist, Hungarian saxophonist Tony LakatosFind albums by this artist, Dutch trumpeter Eric VloeimansFind albums by this artist and many others, including vocalists, percussionist, a choir, a string quartet etc.
The music is a wild mixture of Funky tunes with ethnic elements from many regions, strong percussive pulsations, brilliant Jazz soloing by the guest musicians, in short a unique amalgam of influences, which works together splendidly, and is even danceable, if needed.
Hinze is closely associated with Far East cultural influences, which he absorbed during his travels to the region, as well as meditative techniques and spiritual trends, but his music is always close to the Jazz influences he absorbed during his early days. His group Chris Hinze CombinationFind albums by this artist remains as one of the most important European Jazz and Jazz-Rock Fusion ensembles of the 1970s. Over the years he managed to record an impressive amount of albums, all of which are worth investigation.
Overall, this is a wonderful magic carpet ride above our globe, accompanied by splendid music performed by some of the best Jazz and World Music artists, which flows smoothly and is over way too soon!
| | Updated: 06/03/2025Posted: 06/03/2025 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOACHIM KUHN ~ NIGHTLINE NEW YORK
IN-AKUSTIK 869 (Barcode: 4001985008698) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 2000
This is a reissue / remaster of the album by German Jazz pianist / composer / bandleader Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist, recorded in NY with an all American team, which included saxophonists Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist and Bob MintzerFind albums by this artist, bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Billy HartFind albums by this artist. Percussionist Mark NauseefFind albums by this artist guests on two tracks. The album presents five tracks, all composed by Kuhn.
The music is a brilliant display of modern Jazz, performed by some of the best American Jazz musicians active at the time, and highly charged by the presence of Kuhn, who is taking both the music and the performances on a completely new lever both energetically and aesthetically.
The music is based on solid and beautifully melodic themes, and performed within the standard Jazz framework, but Kuhn’s piano playing is well beyond the ordinary and fills the aural space with incredibly dense arpeggios and sophisticated harmonics. The combined result of the “well behaved” Americans and the “wild” European, who originates from far-out Avant-Garde but proves that he can be seemingly as “tamed” as the best traditionalist, is simply epic.
In many respects this album is a classic example of the colossal difference between American and European Jazz, a dissonance which Kuhn manages to put to work together perfectly. In culinary terms it’s a bit like adding pepper to chocolate, which might have been shocking and unthought-of, when proposed for the first time, but soon found many admirers.
Overall, although being a rather singular episode in Kuhn’s extraordinary recording legacy, and probably one of his most obscure albums, this is a superb piece of music and a highly educational document of the Euro-American Jazz relations. It is, of course, an absolute must to all serious Jazz lovers.
| | Updated: 22/02/2025Posted: 22/02/2025 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROLF KUHN ~ INSIDE OUT
INTUITION 750447327627 (Barcode: 750447327627) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1999 Released: 1999
This is an exquisite album by German clarinetist / composer Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist, one of my all time favorite musicians, recorded in several different lineups and including American guest stars: saxophonists Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist and Lee KonitzFind albums by this artist and also Rolf´s younger brother pianist Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist. The rest of the musicians are members of the younger generation of the German Jazz scene. Together they perform nine tunes, four of which are originals by Rolf Kuhn, three are by Joachim Kuhn, one is by Konitz and the remaining one is a Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist standard. The album was recorded by the legendary sound engineer / producer Walter QuintusFind albums by this artist, owner of CMPFind albums on this label Records, and the sound quality is simply breathtaking.
Kuhn´s clarinet sound, which has been his trademark for decades, is absolutely unique, combining the traditional Jazz approach originating in the early Jazz days and European modernism. Kuhn, who often joins forces with his pianist brother, produced a substantial and consistently excellent body of recorded work over time, which in retrospect is an integral part of the European Jazz and one of its finest facets.
This album is full of beautiful melodies, mostly reflecting the European lyricism and melancholy, superbly executed by all the participants, with many splendid solos and outstanding ensemble playing. The younger musicians seem to have no problem whatsoever to stand shoulder to shoulder with the veterans. Considering the fact that Kuhn was seventy years old when this music was recorded, he manages miraculously to keep his head and soul eternally young!
This album is a classic example of the elegance, sophistication, panache and stylish flair, which characterize European Jazz at its best, and which manage to present relatively mainstream Jazz in a fresh and challenging way. I can´t imagine any true Jazz fan not enjoying this fantastic music, and therefore recommend it wholeheartedly. For clarinet lovers this album is simply beyond essential!
| | Updated: 05/02/2016Posted: 05/02/2016 | CD 1 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 |
  | 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 |
  | MIKE STERN ~ IS WHAT IT IS
WOUNDED BIRD 2571 (Barcode: 664140257122) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1994 Released: 2007
7th album (6th 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 performed by a superb group of musicians, which includes saxophonists Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist and Bob MalachFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Jim BeardFind albums by this artist, bassist Will LeeFind albums by this artist and drummers Dennis ChambersFind albums by this artist and Ben PerowskyFind 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 |
  | MIKE STERN ~ JIGSAW
WOUNDED BIRD 2027 (Barcode: 664140202726) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1989 Released: 2007
4th album (3rd 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 performed by a superb group of musicians, which includes saxophonist Bob BergFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Jim BeardFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff AndrewsFind albums by this artist, drummer Peter ErskineFind albums by this artist and guest musicians (including Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist and Dennis ChambersFind 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 Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | MIKE STERN ~ TIME IN PLACE
WOUNDED BIRD 1840 (Barcode: 664140184022) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1988 Released: 2007
3rd album (2nd 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 predecessor, presenting a set of his excellent compositions performed by a superb group of musicians, which includes saxophonist Bob BergFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Jim BeardFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff AndrewsFind albums by this artist, drummer Peter ErskineFind albums by this artist and guest musicians (including Michael BreckerFind 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 |
  | JAMES TAYLOR ~ HOURGLASS
COLUMBIA 5099748774828 (Barcode: 5099748774828) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1997
This is the 14th studio album by legendary American singer / songwriter James TaylorFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve tracks (and a hidden track), ten of which were written by Taylor. On the album he is accompanied by some of the best American studio musicians, and other musicians, many associated with Jazz, like saxophonists Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist and Branford MarsalisFind albums by this artist. StingFind albums by this artist adds vocals on one track and cellist Yo-Yo MaFind albums by this artist plays on two tracks.
Since his debut released in 1968 Taylor continues to create a steady stream of refined albums, mostly based on his own songwriting, which over time accumulated to one of the most significant American Rock songbooks. His personal musical style remains pretty unaffected over time and his sincere, heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melodies are all timeless gems.
Overall, this is a beautiful collection of songs, sung with great emotion and accompanied by superb musicians, which for any Classic Rock fan is a no brainer. Once familiar with Taylor’s songwriting, one simply never gets tired of his creations!
| | Updated: 24/02/2024Posted: 24/02/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAMES TAYLOR ~ OCTOBER ROAD
COLUMBIA 074646358429 (Barcode: 074646358429) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 2001 - 2002 Released: 2002
This is the 15th studio album by legendary American singer / songwriter James TaylorFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve songs, ten of which were written by Taylor. On the album he is accompanied by some of the best American studio musicians, many associated with Jazz, like drummer Steve GaddFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Larry GoldingsFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist, guitarist John PizzarelliFind albums by this artist and others.
Since his debut released in 1968 Taylor continues to create a steady stream of refined albums, mostly based on his own songwriting, which over time accumulated to one of the most significant American Rock songbooks. His personal musical style remains pretty unaffected over time and his sincere, heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melodies are all timeless gems.
Overall, this is a beautiful collection of songs, sung with great emotion and accompanied by superb musicians, which for any Classic Rock fan is a no brainer. Once familiar with Taylor’s songwriting, one simply never gets tired of his creations!
| | Updated: 11/06/2022Posted: 11/06/2022 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | FRANK ZAPPA ~ ZAPPA IN NEW YORK
ZAPPA 3856 (Barcode: 824302385623) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2012
This is a reissue / remaster of the 23rd album by iconic American guitarist / composer / bandleader / visionary Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist, recorded live during a series of concerts at the NYC Palladium in December 1976 and originally released as a 2LP album in 1978. A much expanded 5CD edition, including the original release and hours of bonus material, all previously unreleased, was released in 2019 as the 112th album, called “Zappa In New York (40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition)Find albums with this title”. All the music was composed by Zappa.
The group / orchestra accompanying Zappa, who plays guitar and sings, includes an incredible assemblage of musicians: rhythm guitarist / vocalist Ray WhiteFind albums by this artist, keyboardist / violinist Eddie JobsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Patrick O`HearnFind albums by this artist, drummer Terry BozzioFind albums by this artist, percussionist Ruth UnderwoodFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist David SamuelsFind albums by this artist and a brilliant brass section comprising of saxophonists Lou MariniFind albums by this artist, Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist and Ronnie CuberFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Randy BreckerFind albums by this artist and trombonist Tom MaloneFind albums by this artist. The material includes some compositions, which appeared on earlier Zappa’s releases, but most of the material was completely new at the time.
The music, as I have already stated repeatedly, is beyond categorization, being first and foremost the idiosyncratic creation of Zappa’s musical Genius. Obviously at the time Zappa was emphasizing the Jazz elements in his music, as the Jazzy brass section certifies, creating his very own Jazz-Rock Fusion, but these terms are highly inappropriate to describe the full scope of this incredible music.
Every new piece of reissued vault material by Zappa expands the portrait of one of the paramount musical Geniuses of the 20th Century. As far as live albums are concerned, this gem certainly finds its place in the Pantheon of the finest live recordings of all time. Listening to these 5 CDs in a row is definitely a life changing Zappaorgy.
Overall, this is an absolute must have album for all Zappaoids, but in truth every true music lover should find this music outstanding in every possible and impossible way… beyond recommendation…
Side Note
Frank Zappa created a vast recorded legacy during his lifetime, which is continuously being expanded using music recorded and stored in his extensive vault. The albums officially released and approved by Zappa are numbered sequentially in the "Official Release" series, from #001 to the last release so far #126. The albums between #001 to #062 were released during Zappa's lifetime and all the others were released posthumously. There are countless unofficial / bootleg releases on the market as well.
Zappa's catalogue was remastered for CD release twice: in 1995 for the RykodiscFind albums on this label releases and again in 2012 for the ZappaFind albums on this label Records / UniversalFind albums on this label releases. The Zappa / Universal program includes 60 releases, which cover the entire catalog released during his lifetime (62 releases, except #013 "200 Motels" and the three Box Sets #043, #046 and #049 called "The Old Masters vol.I / II / III"), and 6 posthumous releases (#064, #065, #067, #068, #093 and #094), which were also included.
| | Updated: 22/09/2022Posted: 01/04/2022 | CD 2 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | FRANK ZAPPA ~ ZAPPA IN NEW YORK (40TH ANNIVERSARY DELUXE EDITION)
ZAPPA 20029 (Barcode: 824302002926) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2019
This is the 112th album by iconic American guitarist / composer / bandleader / visionary Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist, recorded during a series of concerts at the NYC Palladium in December 1976 and originally released as a 2LP album in 1978. This expanded / remastered edition includes 5 CDs worth of music, including the original release and hours of bonus material, all previously unreleased. All the music was composed by Zappa.
The group / orchestra accompanying Zappa on this album includes an incredible assemblage of musicians: rhythm guitarist / vocalist Ray WhiteFind albums by this artist, keyboardist / violinist Eddie JobsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Patrick O`HearnFind albums by this artist, drummer Terry BozzioFind albums by this artist, percussionist Ruth UnderwoodFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist David SamuelsFind albums by this artist and a brilliant brass section comprising of saxophonists Lou MariniFind albums by this artist, Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist and Ronnie CuberFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Randy BreckerFind albums by this artist and trombonist Tom MaloneFind albums by this artist. The material includes some compositions, which appeared on earlier Zappa’s releases, but most of the material was completely new at the time.
The music, as I have already stated repeatedly, is beyond categorization, being first and foremost the idiosyncratic creation of Zappa’s musical Genius. Obviously at the time Zappa was emphasizing the Jazz elements in his music, as the Jazzy brass section certifies, creating his very own Jazz-Rock Fusion, but these terms are highly inappropriate to describe the full scope of this incredible music.
Every new piece of reissued vault material by Zappa expands the portrait of one of the paramount musical Geniuses of the 20th Century. As far as live albums are concerned, this gem certainly finds its place in the Pantheon of the finest live recordings of all time. Listening to these 5 CDs in a row is definitely a life changing Zappaorgy.
Overall, this is an absolute must have album for all Zappaoids, but in truth every true music lover should find this music outstanding in every possible and impossible way… beyond recommendation…
| | Updated: 01/04/2022Posted: 22/09/2021 | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
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