Customer Reviews

Pots & Pans

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

 

 

. . . but still greatly satisfying.

I admit it--I had huge expectations for this solo disc from the former drummer for Dave Holland's brilliant quintet, yet this outing almost completely diverged from the direction I expected it to go in.

First off, before checking it out on Amazon or the artist's web site, I figured it was a drum/percussion solo from the inimitable Kilson. Thus, I neglected picking it up because I always thought (and continue to think) drum solo CDs an almost total bore, pace Milford Graves. Second, I hardly expected a fusionistic outing such as this one. I reckoned Kilson would be assaying territory not dissimilar to that purveyed on his recordings with Holland. Third, I was very pleasantly surprised to see he was accompanied by the great George Colligan on keys (although I think I prefer him on acoustic piano).

In any case, Kilson trots out huge though lightly worn chops on this very likable jazz/funk session. OK, it's not the edgiest, most outré music available. But what it is is entirely satisfying.

Once again, I'm blown away by jazz's ability to throw a curve ball at listener expectations--and yet come away with something not only unanticipated, but much more satisfying that what had been expected.

Billy Kilson - Drums
George Colligan - Keyboards
Kenny Davis - Bass
Mike Sim - Saxophone

Billy Kilson is one of the world's elite drummers and his newest Cd "POTS & PANS" showcases his talent with a bold and dynamic statement. Billy has many strengths and on this recording his use of dynamics and ability to lay down that mighty groove exceed expectations. He also demonstrates speed, dexterity, and a delicate touch with great listening skills by being truly in tune with the moment. While the recording mix has him clearly front and center, I found it was not a distraction since he doesn't overplay. In fact, one of this recording's highlights is that you can hear everything he does, thankfully! The cover art seems to indicate that Billy began playing as many drummers (including myself) by banging on the family pots and pans. While most gave it up, it's obvious Billy kept banging and now he's one of the very best drummers on the planet.

The BK Groove band is perfectly matched with Billy for this recording. No mistakes here and lot's of great intuitive contributions. There are some great compositions that are played flawlessly right next to some really tight improvisations. What I especially enjoyed is that no one dominated the sessions and the group plays as one unit throughout the recording. These guys are talented, really "together", and support each other from beginning to end.

Regarding the style of music here, the song titles give you a big clue to the combination of urban and international appeal. The overall feel is Jazz/Funk/Fusion but it also has a much wider appeal. Now, if you can figure out what that means, you've got something. I can't pin down the style to one particular genre and I feel that's one of the recording's strong points. Most Cd's that try to have a little bit of everything usually ended up sounding like a lot of nothing. Not here, and that's good for us fans, but hard if you're trying to give the music a name or to put a label on it. There's just too many ways to enjoy it or narrow down the style and pigeon hole it.

Overall, this new recording from Billy Kilson and BK Groove is a joy to listen to casually as well as scrutinize note by note. I would highly recommend it to drummers without hesitation, and to any instrumental music fans that appreciate great playing by talented musicians. I should also add that while I'm a Jazz Rock fan from it's hey day in the late 60's and especially early 70's, Jazz Rockers looking for a typical shred fest will be disappointed, and that's a good thing.

By,

Rick Calic
www.jazzrockworld.com

Although the album is good but this guy is GREAT! I saw him performing with Chris Botti this year and I have never witnessed anything better. He is truly amazing and this album does not do him justice. I hope he puts out another that better reflects his talent. Any one considering the drums should look this man up!

I was just introduced to Mr. Kilson by seeing him play on Chris Botti's dvd. I doubt anyone reading this has ever seen a drummer play like this. He is an amazing drummer, better than ANY I have previously enjoyed. When you see him perform, you will realize what a true professional really soun
ds like. All I can say is "Wow".