Customer Reviews

Live in L.A.

5 star:		(16)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Live In L.A. was my introduction to Russ Freeman's incredible guitar playing and the music of the Rippingtons. I happened upon this album when it first appeared in 1993. I've bought everything Russ has done since. This album remains my favorite Rippingtons offering. The unity of the band during the 2 nights these songs were recorded is awe-inspiring. At the same time, we're treated to rare individual precision of each artist throughout the entire disk! Tony Morales' drumming causes new appreciation for those who handle the sticks. Kim Stone's bass riffs are astounding. Percussionist Steve Reid has earned a loyal following in his own right! Even the horn players are masters. Russ is especially appreciative of David Benoit's sitting in on piano on one track (who wouldn't be?). As always, Russ never disappoints with his incredible licks. I've never tired of listening to this recording and I know it's strong to say it's the best live album ever but I honestly testify it's true in my experience.

The great thing about the Rippingtons is that they are not a traditional jazz group. They overlap the boundaries that divide pop and jazz, and do so successfully. "Live In L.A." is actually better than the studio recorded material of the Rippingtons because (a)it shows the great musicianship of the players, and (b)it shows the energy provided by the band. I personally like the first song, "Indian Summer", the best. Russ Freeman and Jeff Kashiwa both shine with guitar and sax solos, respectively. Overall, this is a great live album, and a definite must-own for any fan of this group.

A dedicated Ripps fan I have the entire collection of their albums and this one without a shadow of a doubt is their finest!! They dont come any better than these guys and I cant understand why they havent done any other live albums. Of course we look forward to the release of Live Across America next May with great anticipation and it begs the question "hey guys how about a UK tour?"

I once heard someone say that you really cant capture the magic and beauty of really good music in a review and I have to say never a truer word said. The capture of the crowd's rapture in this cd is superb and there is no way I could do it justice. You really can imagine the atmosphere of actually being there.

I'm a passionate lover of the jazz guitar but the Rippingtons quite simply have great beat. If you havent purchased a Ripps cd before I recommend you start with this one and then move on to Black Diamond or Life in the Tropics.

Keep em coming Russ - your the best !!!

I agree with at least one of the other people who reviewed this recording who stated that it was the best "live" album he had ever heard. I borrowed the CD from a friend while on vacation and took over a month to give it back! Kim Stone's awesome bass solos inspired my 13 year old son to begin to learn bass guitar. It's hard to believe that even the best of musicians can play this level of music in a "live" setting so cleanly, but it IS an incredible sound. The mix is great. Whether you're a lover of "live" albums or not, this one should be in your collection.

This is a great example of what a Live instrumental CD should sound! The songs are close to the original versions but played with more passion!!!

I've heard the studio versions of most of the tracks. In the studio, Rippingtons consistently produce a polished product. On this disc, in front of a live audience, they keep the polish but add lots of energy. Given the choice of listening to the studio versions or the live versions of these tunes, I'll take the live ones any day.

"Live in LA" is one of the best live Instrumental Pop/Smooth Jazz Cds ever released. It captures only Rippingtons highlight songs - and HOT! Great arrangments of the studio recorded songs make this an undoubtly must have for any Instrumental Pop / Smooth Jazz fan, or for somebody who just likes music which BLOWS!! "Indian Summer", "Dream of the Sirens" and "Tourist in Paradise" make this Cd 5 stars alone - but all the other tracks are hot too! Yaw!

Great item, great price, and fast delivery. They provided with followup emials on tracking number with delivery date, and the shipment was great.

cd is in great condition! It didnt even take that long until I received it. I would recommend this to many.

Fantastic music. The Rippingtons in their fusion stage, before they went for 'soft jazz.' Upbeat and power-packed, with top-rated musicians. A must have if you want to hear a great bassist (Kim Stone). Recorded live in 2 LA venues.

I never tire of listening to this, regardless if I'm driving, reading, or just chillin'. My favs are tracks 2, 4, 6, and especially 8!

Highly recommend! And I want more Rippingtons jazz fusion!