Customer Reviews

The Gathering

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I recently had an on-air interview with Geri. I've always liked her work as a composer so I was excited for this opportunity. Before we met I listened to everything from her discography I could get my hands on, I listened to them in chronological order. From her oldest release to her current one. When I put "The Gathering" on I couldn't believe the development in Geri as a composer and performer. If this is any indicator of where she will be in the future, be prepared for great things. The day after our interview I o got to hear Geri with her trio...I was awestruck. Not only does she have the ability to play her own wonderful compositions with a beauty and flair but, she is also a very strong, yet generous leader with her trio. If Geri Allen comes to your town...GO SEE HER! If she doesn't...GO PURCHASE "THE GATHERING!" You won't be disappointed.

What does one actually hear when sonic signatures impregnates the ear? I do not know. Music is extremely personal. I would never propose how one should listen and what they should hear. However, I vehemently disagree with some of the previous statements made regarding the worth of this work.

These musicains collective ,and individual genuis may appear as "too polished" ,"not ground breaking". I would argue that the importance of ones contribution does not rely on its ability to break new ground. We yearn for new creative endeavours to do so. However, this is not always possible or necessary. Artistic intergity, effective communications and the need to create and/or explore morally admirable 'soundscapes' tells the story. Does this effort surrenders to the mold of commericialism? No, it doesn't. Is there a story worthy to be listened to and repeatedly told? Yes, it is. Does this music have the potential to evolve into something even more beautiful? Yes, most definitely.

This effort is extremely lush and hypnotic. Geri Allen-Roney's performance and compostions are unflawed. The ensemble work and solo expressions shines too bright for some. This set of originals commands you to release preconceived expectations. She does not repeat her past truimphs. I have been a fan of Geri's work since her days with Oliver Lake. She maintains a relentless intergity. Yes, she has put together a stellar ensemble. But more important is the fact that they all work amazingly well together. The music does not suffer ,and illuminates our world by mere existence.

The solo work of husband Wallace Roney, and friends: Robin Eubanks and Vernon Reid is outstanding! Thank you all for the wonderful music!!

I have unfortunately just discovered Geri Allen and I can't get enough of listening to this CD. Thanks to Charles Lloyd who I happened to see at the Catalina Bar and Grill in LA, I was blessed to see this brilliant pianist perform. After the set I approached her to tell her I loved her playing. The next day I rushed out and bought her CD and I will be a loyal follower from this point on. I've recommened her CD's to friends and family. Geri Allen should be a household name in my opinion, and if I can promote that possibility I will.

This is the first time I hear of Geri Allen (2007). I just bought this album and I was more than surprised; in a very positive way.
The Gathering (her debut album); although this CD is more piano oriented, since GA is a pianist, it sure fits well among the solid great Jazz Fusion albums I own with a small Rock touch on some tracks.
If you are eager to hear a great Jazz Fusion album (which is rare lately), "The Gathering" would be well recommended
Again, Great album for Geri Allen and will be looking for buying all her other releases.
She surely fits well among the well Jazz Fusion musicians such as Herbie Hancock, Santana (only his jazz fusion albums) and John McLaughlin
If you enjoy this album, I recommend that you add the following albums to your collection:
1. Love Devotion and Surrender by Carlos Santana and John McLaughlin
2. Caravanserai by Santana
3. Illuminations by Santana
4. Devotion by John McLaughlin

Curiously inviting....it's real jazz...not the fake stuff. It's the kind of music that triggers nostalgia....the stuff that makes you feel like you're in a dream....how can I say it?....I know.....it's like....the musical equivalent of a Van Gogh.....A Masterpiece. Geri Allen has done it again. Buy it.

Similar to her last few projects, Geri has put together an ensemble of stellar musicians. The majority of the compositions are modal and the entire CD flows from one mood to another. Geri is perfecting her sound as a composer and seems to be leaning towards reaching a larger, more accepting audience.

This is the first purchase of Geri Allen's work. On the whole the CD is enjoyable, nothing ground breaking. Not having listened to her previous works I can not comment on it's relative merits. Starts well with 'the gathering', and 'dark prince' but after that I found my concentration wondering only to be awakened by the occaisonal Robin Eubanks on trombone (always impressive). However, improving with each listen, technically - no complaints - would I buy the next release - maybe?

This release by geri Allen is very polished, so much so that it reduces some of it's impact and thus reflects the 3 star rating as opposed to four. The music ranges from straight ahead jazz to mild free explorations. All in all a dark tone is felt throughout the entire disc culmintaing in the last piece "Angels" which is probably the best composition here. Allen has talent both as a player and a composer and despite the overpolished production that is what makes this release worthwhile.