Record Reviews

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

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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

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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

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VOLKER KRIEGEL ~ JAZZFEST BERLIN `81 ART OF GROOVE 80187 (Barcode: 885513801876) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Funk Fusion Recorded: 1981 Released: 2012 This is a wonderful album by the German guitarist / composer / bandleader Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist, recorded live at the annual Jazzfest Berlin festival (active continuously since 1964 and still doing very well today) with a dreamy quintet, which also included vibraphonist Wolfgang SchluterFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Thomas BettermannFind albums by this artist, bassist Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist and drummer Ralf HubnerFind albums by this artist. The album consists of seven tracks, five of which are original compositions by Kriegel, one is an original composition by Bettermann and one is en extensive solo by Weber, credited to him of course. Four of the Kriegel´s compositions originate from his album "JournalFind albums with this title", released just prior to this concert appearance and one originates from his "House BoatFind albums with this title" album from 1978. Sadly this is one of the last albums recorded by Kriegel, who died in 2003 (it was released posthumously in 2012). This album also includes a DVD filmed at the concert, which does not include any additional audio material not included on the CD. The quintet displays a very "typical" Kriegel attitude towards Jazz-Rock Fusion, personalizing the European approach, which is based on sophisticated compositions, delicate phrasing, space and freedom which allows for extensive improvisations and multi-layered interplay between the musicians involved. As a result these live versions of the tunes, which originate in studio recordings, are considerably more expressive and are by far longer in duration. There is no doubt that Kriegel was one of the "coolest" guitar players ever; his highly personal style sets him apart from most other guitarists, not only in Europe but worldwide. He played long, relaxed notes, letting them float on the air and settle down delicately straight onto the listener´s soul. There is none of the typical Jazz-Rock Fusion neck-breaking guitar playing a hundred notes per minute; Kriegel was a complete antidote of that approach. This album beautifully portrays the very special relationship Kriegel had with his musical partners. His duets with Schluter are absolutely stunning in their fragility and tenderness, but in fact all the contributions by the quintet members are nothing short of stellar. Weber´s bass is, as always, amazing with its melodious approach and harmonic choices and his solo piece captured here should be taught in music schools as an example of bass playing ingenuity. Bettermann plays a few incredible keyboard solos and Hubner switches skillfully between Free Form ornamentation and precision swing, both performed with equal virtuosity. This is a wonderful document of the European Jazz-Rock Fusion at its best and a superb tribute to Kriegel´s talents and his contribution to music. It is an absolute must for guitar lovers, but all Fusion and Jazz connoisseurs should have a field day with this extraordinary piece of musical history.

Updated: 04/04/2016Posted: 04/04/2016

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VOLKER KRIEGEL ~ WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS ART OF GROOVE 80192 (Barcode: 885513801920) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1968 Released: 2013 This is a reissue of the debut album by the German Jazz / Fusion guitar virtuoso / composer Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist. The original album featured Kriegel in a trio setting with bassist Peter TrunkFind albums by this artist and Dutch drummer Cees SeeFind albums by this artist on side A of the LP, and in a quartet setting with Brazilian born resident in Germany vibraphonist Claudio SzenkarFind albums by this artist, bassist Gunter LenzFind albums by this artist and drummer Peter BaumeisterFind albums by this artist on side B of the LP. The original album was expanded for this reissue with the addition of seven live tracks recorded at the same period as the studio recording, featuring additional musicians active on the German scene at the time, like American (living in Europe) clarinetist Tony ScottFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Gustl MayerFind albums by this artist, drummer Ralf HubnerFind albums by this artist and a few others. The original album includes four original compositions by Kriegel, a couple of Beatles songs arrangements and one traditional piece. Kriegel emerges as an extraordinary guitar player, who despite his young age presents a refined stylistic approach well beyond the ordinary. Although still very much rooted in the Jazz tradition, Kriegel moves away from the mainstream rigidity and pushes into a new territory, pioneering the emerging Jazz-Rock Fusion idiom, which for him is not yet completely crystallized at the time, but already shows highly advanced forward thinking about harmony and rhythmic patterns. As future was about to reveal, these early ideas were about to develop rapidly and Kriegel was about to create some of the most noteworthy European Jazz / Fusion moments in the years to follow. Already at this early stage Kriegel shows his affinity towards the vibraphone, which would become a faithful partner to his guitar throughout his career. The clearly defined sound of the vibraphone is undoubtedly a perfect partner to the precise sounds Kriegel produces on his guitar, using no sound effects or vibrato, with every note being absolutely crystal clear and perfectly articulated. The guitar / vibraphone collaborations Kriegel recorded later on were an integral part of his unique sound, which still remains unmatched decades later. The original compositions show Kriegel´s talent as a composer, which was no less spectacular than his performing abilities. Incorporating ethnic scales, odd meters and unusual melody twists, his music remained distinctive and idiosyncratic till his tragically premature death. He was an intellectual and was nor ashamed to admit it, and a multi-talented artist, which his later life was about to expose, and his music was always both highly emotional and deeply intellectual, with an advanced aesthetic sense of beauty. This is a most welcome reissue initiative, bringing back to life a little know gem of early European Fusion, which surely deserves to be heard by the new generation of music lovers. Although not specified on the albums packaging, the original master tapes were probably remastered, as the sound quality is nothing short of spectacular. Obviously this album is a highly recommended piece of music history, which still bites stronger than most other music made today. Not to be missed!

Updated: 22/04/2016Posted: 22/04/2016

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JOACHIM KUHN ~ I`M NOT DREAMING / DYNAMICS ART OF GROOVE 80232 (Barcode: 885513802323) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1983 - 1990 Released: 2014 This is a reissue of two albums by German pianist / composer Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist, which were originally released on the German CMPFind albums on this label label, owned and operated by recording legend / producer Walter QuintusFind albums by this artist. After a spell of activity in the Jazz-Rock Fusion idiom in the 1970s, Kuhn returned to experimentation in the Avant-Garde Jazz and contemporary Classical music in the 1980s, and these two albums reflect his work in that decade. "I`m Not DreamingFind albums with this title", recorded in 1983, marks the beginning of the association between Kuhn and Quintus and his CMP label. It was recorded by a quintet, which features two Germans: cellist Ottomar BorwitzkyFind albums by this artist (a Classical musician) and multi-instrumentalist Herbert ForschFind albums by this artist, and two Americans: the legendary trombonist George LewisFind albums by this artist and percussionist Mark NauseefFind albums by this artist (resident in Germany). Together they form a formidable ensemble, which performs seven original compositions by Kuhn. The music is floating somewhere between Free Jazz and contemporary Chamber Classical music, which is based on composed themes but is then expanded by extensive improvised passages. Over thirty years later this music is still as challenging and fresh as it was at the time of the recording, and remains a significant piece of the modern European Jazz history. "DynamicsFind albums with this title", recorded in 1990, is a solo piano album, which presents seven pieces, five of which were composed by Kuhn and two are interpretations of music composed by Eric DolphyFind albums by this artist and Dave LiebmanFind albums by this artist. Again, rather than playing completely improvised music, Kuhn prefers to have a compositional framework to guide him, as he creates his improvisations. Kuhn is of course one of the most important European Jazz pianist and his solo piano albums are always examples of sublime musicality, impeccable aesthetics and of course brilliant technique. This is demanding, serious music, which demands concentration and dedication in order to be fully appreciated and understood, but eventually it is as much rewarding. This reissue brings back to life some of the great European Jazz, that sank into the background in time, but which certainly deserves to be cherished and remembered. Therefore the Art Of GrooveFind albums on this label label deserves to be shown gratitude for their work in this area.

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 02/05/2016

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JEREMY STEIG & EDDIE GOMEZ ~ MUSIC FOR FLUTE & DOUBLE BASS / RAIN FOREST ART OF GROOVE 80242 (Barcode: 885513802422) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion Recorded: 1978 - 1980 Released: 2015 This is a reissue of two excellent albums recorded by the two American Jazz Masters, flautist / composer Jeremy SteigFind albums by this artist and bassist / composer Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist. "Music For Flute & Double BassFind albums with this title", recorded in 1978, is a duo album which finds Steig and Gomez exchanging licks in an intimate setting, while "Rain ForestFind albums with this title", recorded in 1980, finds them in the company of several musicians: Austrian guitarist Karl RatzerFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Mike NockFind albums by this artist, drummers Steve GaddFind albums by this artist and Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and percussionists Nana VasconcelosFind albums by this artist and Ray BarrettoFind albums by this artist. Both albums are remastered and each features one bonus track recorded by the duo live during the 1978 Berlin Jazz Days. Both albums were originally released on the German CMPFind albums on this label label and present all original material composed by Steig and Gomez. Steig and Gomez go together way back to the 1960s, when they were members of the proto Fusion band Jeremy & The SatyrsFind albums by this artist, and their paths crossed regularly over the years. They have developed over time a rare affinity and understanding between themselves, which comes into beautiful fruition on these albums. The duo album is a superb opportunity to witness the incredible virtuosity these two players are capable of delivering, as well as enjoy their telepathic dialogues. The studio environment enables them to multi track and overlay several instruments in parallel, producing a richer and more impressive sonic result, without disturbing the intimacy and delicacy of that session. The group album presents several different lineups from the list of participants above, and is an orgy of brilliant performances, polyrhythmic complexity and joy of life. Many excellent solos chase one another and everybody gets an opportunity to show their chops, as appropriate for the occasion. It is much more Fusion oriented than the intimate duo album. Musically these albums amalgamate many different influences, obviously based on the Jazz tradition but incorporating many World Music characteristics, some Fusion tendencies and even contemporary Classical music vistas. Sadly these two albums never enjoyed the popularity they truly deserved and therefore this is a great opportunity to get hold of them again for a very fair price. After all this music should definitely be part of every serious music collection.

Updated: 28/06/2016Posted: 28/06/2016

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HEINZ SAUER / JASPER VAN`T HOF ~ HAMBURG EPISODE ART OF GROOVE 80332 (Barcode: 885513803320) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1983 Released: 2015 This is a fabulous archival live recording of a duo concert by two of the most prominent European Jazz musicians: German saxophonist Heinz SauerFind albums by this artist and Dutch keyboardist Jasper van`t HofFind albums by this artist. Together they perform six original compositions, each of them contributing three of his works. The entire concert was beautifully recorded by the NDR, with the legendary Michael NauraFind albums by this artist at the helm. In spite of the fact that the music was recorded thirty two years before it was released, it lost absolutely nothing if its vitality and relevance over time and is an extraordinary example of the "Art of the Duo". Among the countless number of saxophone players around the world, Sauer has surely one of the most distinctive voices on his tenor saxophone, immediately recognizable and using a completely unique playing technique, which allows his to play the melody line and the complex improvisations around it, sounding like one inseparable sound. Often describes as Free without being totally Free, his playing has always been one of the most advanced Avant-Garde and yet completely romantic and likeable. This fantastic dichotomy marks Sauer as one of the European Jazz everlasting icons. Of course van`t Hof is also a great Master, playing every possible keyboard instrument from a grand acoustic piano to the most advanced electronic instruments, always doing so with the utmost sensibility, inventiveness and elegance. His numerous recordings over the years are a brilliant record of great musicianship and immense contribution to European Jazz. His performances on this album are of course as perfect as can be imagined, balancing Sauer´s sonic vistas with his own inventions, as if all this music was written down in great detail, where in fact it was completely improvised. This album is not only a document of great individual performances, but more importantly is shoes a level of interplay and communication achieved by the great Masters of the Jazz idiom. These veterans speak one language at all times, regardless of what instruments they play. Such telepathic coordination and artistic symbiosis happens only now and then, and this encounter was simply one of those magic moments. Kudos to the Art Of GrooveFind albums on this label Label for releasing this wonderful music, as it certainly deserves to be heard. This album should be a pride possession of every serious European Jazz collector, so please try to get it ASAP and you won´t regret it.

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 29/04/2016

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