Customer Reviews

Milkyway Express: Tribute Music of Wayne Shorter

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

 

 

A relative newcomer to the music of Rachel Z, I was not sure what to expect on my first listen to this. I had seen her in cocert with her trio (+1) playing alternative rock and watched in amazement as she played some evidently two-handed parts with one one hand (due to an injured finger on the other). Her playing was quite impressive in that setting and even more so here on this CD.

The CD has everything one could hope for in a CD: great music and a lot of talent and energy brought to bear on playing it. At times, it becomes quite contemplative and you really have to listen intently to catch it all, but at other times, it really swings and the playing (of all three members of the trio) just reaches out and grabs you. The last two tracks (Three Marias and On the Milkyway Express) are especially rewarding in this way. If you have heard either of Rachel Z's last two CD's, it may help you to know that this one is closer to Room of One's Own than to Love is the Power--but it is still very different from both. If you like really good straightahead jazz, there's a real good chance you will love this CD. I give it my highest recommendation!

I first heard Rachel Z on KPLU 88.5FM in Seattle and scrammbled to write down the name when I first heard it! Fresh, invigorating, reminded me of some of the Pat Metheny "trio" works, and Pat Metheny Group in general (minus synths, effects). My feelings were of happiness, joy, and the desire to tell others of a wonderful new Jazz trio I had heard. If Jazz makes you happy, makes you want to explore the world, sing, play, and generally be thankful...Wow, this is a CD to get. These women ROCK (JAZZ?)! Gonna find a ticket to their local gig as soon as can. In short, thank you Rachel Z (and your group). Ahimsa.

I saw rachel z trio on 22 dec. 2000 at "AlexanderPlatz" in rome,
and bought the disc from her at the end of the concert.
No way i would have gone home without it!!!
I remember she told me that allison (drums) felt a little sick so she wasn't at her best, and i thought, "Oh my god, can she play even better than this ?".
great drum work by allison (interesting rhythms and very nice work on those cymbals).
pure magic from rachel,
You can easily hear how much she loves Wayne Shorter's music,
and i think i hear clasical influences too.
I'm just waiting for a chance to enjoy once more rachel and her trio in concert, meanwhile i spoile my self with the album.
Truly a work of art.

itaisim@yahoo.com

I first saw Rachel Z playing with Wayne Shorter and was impressed,her first album I found dull. So I wasn't expecting much with this album, but it really swings and the gentler setting of the piano trio shows off the beauty of the compositions. I can't wait for her versions of his electric stuff.

This trio of young jazz artists has put forward a promising and enjoyable work. For the most part, Rachel's take on the material comes across as fluid and thoughtful. The disc is highly complimented by the competent and expressive drumming of Allison Miller. The performances sound better and better with each listen.

I once mistook Rachel Z for (yet another) Smooth Jazz artist and I had to take it back when I heard this CD. She has totally demonstrated her playing skills (already present on the Vertu album) and great mastery in arrangements. For instance, her version of "El Gaucho" is quite a delight. The same applies for "the Three Marias", mixing fluidity and rythm. The trio works well though I would enjoyed more solos from the side girls. Anyway, Wayne Shorter's masterpieces are so numerous that a second volume including "Speak no Evil" or "Juju" could easily be released.