Customer Reviews

The Gospel According to Jazz, Chapter 1

5 star:		(18)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Since Kirk's debut in the mid-80s, he has always included a taste of gospel on his albums which was a clear indication that this was where his foundation lay - in the church. To have him record a full-fledged gospel album with yet another artist who has branched out, yet whose gospel foundation is also just as evident, none other than George Duke, the listener is in for an awesome surprise. The choir is wonderful but the real standout is how beautiful gospel and jazz mesh into a mesmerzing listening experience. George Duke's piano playing is positively beautiful and complements Whalum's expressive gospel sax. These musicians indeed make a joyful noise unto the Lord. Even as musical director with Whitney Houston, Kirk Whalum showed a remarkable affinity for Ms. Houston's gospel-inspired performances. I even had the privilege of hearing Mr. Whalum live and his live performances are equally exciting. If you are a gospel and jazz fan and can appreciate the blending of these two art forms, you will definitely appreciate this particular project. The audience is an excellent indication that the spirit was truly in the house. A definite plus as well as a must!

This is mind blowing, re-connected me to my spirit, when listening to this CD you just get lifted to a higher level. I am crazy about all the songs especially track no. 5, Kevin is just great. Kirk you have truly outdone yourself on this one. When I heard it for the first time it was at a live perfomance in South Africa and I knew it I had to get it, not as a luxury but a necessity, my life was just not going to be complete without it. This is one investment I will cherish, this is a classic and over and above all its the most beautiful gospel CD. Keep up the good work Kirk!!

This album is way overdue and shows the full range of Kirk's abilities. Passion, grace, and fire are all words that describe this cd, from the haunting rendition of "Lord, I want to be a Christian", the beautiful lilting 6/8 feel of "Blessed Redeemer", and the duet with vocalist and brother Kevin Whalum "Wade in the Water" is a delightful funky romp. The cd features incredible solo's from pianist George Duke and guitarist Paul Jackson, jr. and Kirk could not have picked a better pairing for this live album done at Nashville's Ryman auditorium in front of church folk and musicians alike. Buy this one, you'll be glad you did!

Gospel According to Jazz, Chapters 1 & 2, are outstanding projects. Kirk is an anointed artist, without a doubt.
The DVD of Chapter 2, is WONDERFUL! Artists like Jonathan
Butler/Ta-Ta Vega, Kirk's brother, Kevin/George Duke/
Paul Jackson, Jr. & Kirk's son, Kyle -- add a special
touch.

The Gospel according to Jazz is an example of how you can to mix together without compromise. A must CD for anyone who loves Gospel and Jazz. Remember Gospel and Jazz are from the same art form.

I am a huge fan and I recently had the opportunity to hear Kirk, his brother Kevin, and a new artist by the name of James Santos (I want to say) at my church at New Birth Cathedral in Lithonia, Georgia. It was wonderful he colloborated with his brother with songs from this album and a mixture of his other ones. He also gave us a sneak peak from his new album the Gospel According to Jazz II. I bought the first one afterwards and feel truly blessed to have heard such beautiful songs and mixed melodies. He's truly a legend in the making. Blessed Assurance is my favorite song it puts you in the spirit. Very much like Wade in the Water. I love it and I love you Kirk.

This cd is awesome. I loved the versatiliy and level of musicianship. I believe the project will help pave the way for other artists with similar goals. Additionally, the flow from one song to another keeps the listener attentive and excited. Great job Kirk!

This is a marvelous CD, Kirk has blended traditional songs with a jazzy feel. It will please both traditional and non-traditional christians!

Overall I think Mr. Whalum did a great job of introducing listeners to another side of his life, and a fine job of bringing together two seemingly unrelated worlds--Jazz and Gospel. It is one of the best works I've heard which crosses the lines. It's tasteful and inspirational. And for those who can understand, it really encourages the listener to hear God in new ways.

Praise the Lord for jazz musicians who love to serve Him! Kirk Whalum and George Duke are to be commended for this effort; their performances are almost hypnotic. The choir is adequate, but the musicians steal the show on this one. NICE WORK KIRK!