Record Reviews

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

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 8 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

LARRY CORYELL ~ I`LL BE OVER YOU CTI 67238 (Barcode: 024646723826) ~ USA ~ Smooth Jazz Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995 This is an album by American Jazz / Fusion guitarist / composer Larry CoryellFind albums by this artist, the third of the three albums he recorded for the CTIFind albums on this label label owned by producer Creed TaylorFind albums by this artist. The album features a large team of musicians, including vocalist Peabo BrysonFind albums by this artist, guitarist Chuck LoebFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Grover Washington, Jr.Find albums by this artist, bassist Will LeeFind albums by this artist, drummer Steve FerroneFind albums by this artist and many others. The album presents eleven tracks, most of which are arrangements of Soul songs with some original contributions by Coryell. This album was undoubtedly Coryell’s most commercial album ever, almost completely outside of his usual Jazz / Fusion environment. The title song even enjoyed some chart success. Obviously Coryell was convinced to try his commercial luck by the producer, and thank God the album was not a success, with Coryell retuning to playing Jazz. Having said that the album offers some great acoustic guitar licks, which show his true skills. The production and performances by all the musicians involved are as perfect as slick, commercial music allows. Overall, this is a short stunt with commercial music by one of the greatest guitar players of all times, which can be easily forgiven, and perhaps forgotten as well. It is listenable at all? Well, if you’re in a mood for a smoothie, it certainly is.

Updated: 21/08/2023Posted: 21/08/2023

CD 1 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

MIKE STERN ~ ALL OVER THE PLACE HEADS UP 33186 ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 2011 - 2012 Released: 2012 Some musicians simply can´t go wrong, and guitarist / composer Mike SternFind albums by this artist is certainly one of them. Decades of superb performances, composing and recording albums produced an incredible volume of music, which is always first rate and stays fresh, vibrant and eternally uplifting. This, his 17th album as a leader, is another of those wonderful albums that are simply perfect in what they are. It includes eleven new Stern original compositions, performed by an incredible all star band and guest artists, which reads like the who´s who of American Jazz and Fusion. In time Stern managed to work out a formula, which works perfectly. His compositions combine great melodies with catchy licks and funky groove, but maintain incredibly high aesthetic standard and intelligent arrangements. The level of musicianship and stellar performances make the entire package irresistible. Stern´s Fusion is always an amalgam of the good old Blues roots with modern electric Funk and of course deep respect for the Jazz tradition. The list of the performers on this album is really very long, so here are just a few of the better known names: trumpeter Randy BreckerFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Kenny GarrettFind albums by this artist and Bob MalachFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Jim BeardFind albums by this artist, bassists Anthony JacksonFind albums by this artist, Will LeeFind albums by this artist and Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, drummers Dave WecklFind albums by this artist and Al FosterFind albums by this artist and many others. His wife, guitarist Leni SternFind albums by this artist, also makes a rare guest appearance. Fusion enthusiasts and Stern fans alike need absolutely no encouragement to grab this gem immediately. If anybody on this planet is still unfamiliar with his music, perhaps now is the time to remedy the situation. This album smokes!

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