Posts in category: Live Jazz

The Headhunters, a legendary jazz-funk fusion band, celebrates their 50th anniversary with a captivating live performance in their album ‘Live at Brooklyn Bowl.’ The album showcases their masterful musicianship on tracks like “Chameleon” and “Butterfly,” which feature hypnotic basslines, intricate drumming, and soulful melodies from the horns. The band’s energy and chemistry are palpable as they effortlessly switch between grooves and solos, creating an immersive experience that transports the listener straight to the Brooklyn Bowl. The album also features a cover of Jimi Hendrix’s “If 6 Was 9,” which pays homage to the band’s roots in the ’60s and ’70s. ‘Live at Brooklyn Bowl’ is a must-listen for any fan of jazz or funk, and a fitting tribute to a band that has influenced generations of musicians.

It’s amazing how history can repeat itself as what was once old is now new again. The Headhunters, a legendary band in jazz music, is still thriving today, thanks to the surviving members like drummer Mike Clark and percussionist Bill Summers who have taken on the mantle to continue carrying the band’s legacy forward even after the passing of some of its original members. While Herbie Hancock, bassist Paul Jackson, and saxophonist Bennie Maupin may no longer be with us, their music lives on through the Headhunters’ sound. Of course, fans of the band would already be familiar with drummer Harvey Mason who featured on their first album before being replaced by Mike Clark. However, today’s lineup brings a unique New Orleans flavor with Kyle Roussel on keys, NEA Jazz Master Donald “Chief” Harrison on alto saxophone, and Chris Severin on seven-string bass. The band’s latest studio album, “Speakers in the House” that featured Clark, Summers, and Harrison, along with Reggie Washington on bass and Stephen Gordon on keys and some equally talented guest musicians, was already covered by reputable music publications like ours back in November 2022.

The brilliant Herbie Hancock, a legend in the music world, had a vision to shift away from jazz-rock fusion and bring forth a brand new sound – one that blended jazz and funk in a fresh and exciting way. Now, this spectacular performance was recorded live at the renowned Brooklyn Bowl in the vibrant city of Williamsburg, New York. On the 9th of February in the year 2023, this exceptional show marked the beginning of an extraordinary global tour. For all fans of jazz, this concert is sure to be a treat as the band performs some iconic tracks such as “Watermelon Man,” “Chameleon,” and “Butterfly.” In addition, the latest original composition “Rocking At The Mole House” from the album Speakers in the House is also featured, adding to the already outstanding lineup. Furthermore, you can’t miss out on “Four String Drive” from the Mike Clark and Paul Jackson album The Funk Stops Here, the electrifying “Loft Funk” from The Headhunters Evolution Revolution, and a stimulating jam session. To top it all off, everything is rounded off with a classic New Orleans favorite – “Hey Pocky Way”, featuring stunning vocals by Clark, Summers, and Harrison.

The album has a clear focus on both co-leaders, Clark and Summers, and percussion play a significant role throughout the tracks. The first song, “Four String Drive,” showcases Severin’s impressive bass skills as he uses wah-wah pedals to bring out the funkiness of the song. Harrison’s reed playing takes centre stage as the band builds up the rhythm, followed by Roussel’s skilled piano playing that leaves the listener inspired. Moving on to the next track, “Rocking at the Mole House,” the funky bass beats take the lead role alongside Roussel’s impressive pedal-adorned keyboards. Remarkably, while Maupin was known for his versatility and creativity on the reeds, Harrison is equally talented but arguably plays with a more aggressive style, adding another layer of excitement to the album. It’s clear that Clark and Summers have hit the jackpot with Harrison, who, along with the other talented musicians, make this album a must-listen for all music lovers.

The live performance of Headhunters Jam exudes pure virtuosity, with each band member displaying a stunning showcase of their musical talents. Bassist Severin and Roussel demonstrate a deep understanding and fluency with The Headhunters’ musical language that justifies the praise Summers bestows on them, while Harrison’s newly awarded NEA status adds to his already prestigious reputation. The King Curtis-inspired structure of the tune allows each member of the band to shine in turn. The iconic “Butterfly” follows, offering a brief respite from the funk allowing Harrison to show off his impressive chops, before Roussel’s turn to astound the audience. “Watermelon Man” incites a passionate response from the crowd, leading onto the band’s smooth transition from “Loft Funk” to a drum-centric, intense Harrison-played “Chameleon” and culminating in a powerful performance of “Hey Pocky Way.” If anything, the listener might feel that the several faded-in and out segments rob them of an authentic experience, leaving them with a sense of something missing.

The Future Is Now is a newly released live album featuring the classic Elektric Band line up, consisting of Chick Corea, John Patitucci, Dave Weckl, Eric Marienthal, and Frank Gambale. The album was produced and compiled by Chick Corea himself, before his untimely passing last year. It consists of previously unreleased recordings from the band’s 2003 world tour, showcasing their virtuosic musicianship and groundbreaking fusion of jazz, rock, and electric instrumentation. The Future Is Now captures the band at the height of their powers, with electrifying performances of classic tunes such as “Got a Match?,” “Silver Temple,” and “To the Stars.” Corea’s vision and legacy live on through this thrilling new release, which is sure to delight both longtime fans and newcomers to the world of jazz fusion.

Chick Corea, a legendary figure in the world of jazz, passed away in February 2021, leaving behind an incredible collection of music that fans and listeners around the world have come to love and admire. Fortunately, his brilliance and talent will continue to live on in the form of this remarkable collection of live recordings that have never before been released to the public.

Curated by Chick himself, prior to his untimely passing, the collection features performances from the reunited classic Elektric Band, captured during tour stops spanning over two years between 2016 to 2018. The live recordings showcase the incredible skill and musicianship of the band, who deliver a powerful and unforgettable performance, full of energy, passion, and soul. Listening to the music, one can’t help but feel transported to a time and place where jazz was at its finest, and Chick Corea was leading the charge.

The new 3 LP and double CD release is an exemplary work of art produced by none other than Corea himself, with the talented Bernie Kirsh who served as the original Elektric Band recording engineer. The album is co-produced by Dave Weckl, who has an ear for mastering and adding the finishing touches to music that is music to the ears. The band’s legacy is commemorated with a beautifully mastered album, expertly curated and put together, giving us all a chance to experience the magic of the Elektric Band’s music once again. Adding to the charm of the album, it includes in-depth liner notes written by Corea himself and all the Elektric Band members, giving fans a glimpse into the band’s behind-the-scenes moments, making it an absolute must-have for all Elektric Band enthusiasts. This album serves as the perfect closing chapter, a fitting tribute to this dynamic and groundbreaking group.

The story of the Elektric Band is one of innovation, passion, and exceptional musical talent. Led by the incomparable 27-time Grammy winner and Jazz Master, this sextet of virtuosic musicians came together in the mid ’80s to push the boundaries of contemporary jazz and redefine the genre for a new generation of music lovers. With a sound that was both visionary and accessible, the Elektric Band quickly made a name for themselves with their electrifying live shows and pioneering fusion of jazz, rock, and funk elements. And they didn’t just set the bar – they raised it with each new album, earning critical acclaim and countless fans along the way. With their unparalleled musicianship, contagious energy, and groundbreaking approach to jazz, the Elektric Band remains a beloved and influential force in music to this day.

The group truly stands out for its remarkable musical talent. Comprised of some of the most accomplished musicians of their time, the core lineup included John Patitucci, who was a virtuoso on the bass guitar and whose innovative approach to playing bass lines was legendary. Dave Weckl, on the drums, was no less of a luminary and was renowned for his thunderous style and explosive solos. Eric Marienthal’s saxophone playing was soulful yet technically astounding, and Frank Gambale’s guitar playing was nothing short of mesmerizing. It is easy to see why these four musicians were able to create a sound that became synonymous with jazz fusion. Together, they blended complex compositions with captivating improvisations, creating a dynamic and electrifying musical experience that captivated audiences everywhere. Their albums were testaments to their collective artistry, showcasing a stunning array of musical talent that left listeners in awe of their incredible ability and undeniable genius.

Chick Corea, the legendary jazz musician and composer, has been constantly pushing the boundaries of his art for over three decades. His remarkable commitment and passion for music have kept his fans in awe since the release of his five impressive albums in just six years. The stunning albums, which have now been made available across various CDs and the vinyl box set The Complete Studio Recordings 1986-1991, have received numerous accolades and positive reviews from both fans and critics alike. Despite this immense success, Corea never stopped exploring new directions and challenging himself artistically. Throughout his illustrious career, he experimented with various genres, from jazz fusion to world music, classical music, and beyond. Corea’s unwavering dedication to his craft has cemented his position as one of the greatest musicians of our time.