Customer Reviews

Ray of Hope

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

 

 

Yeah, it is reminiscient of the crappy contemporary jazz you hear on the radio, but this is way funkier and full of groove. This is one of my all-time favorite albums. Great playing by all the guys, especially Steve Smith. I've heard the later VI stuff, and I'm just not into that monotonous Hammond organ material. This one has all the hooks!

I am sure these guys could do better, considering their musical pedigree. This is no less than a supergroup. But they fail to deliver on this release: the music on this CD is mostly unispired instrumental pop, not unlike Spyro Gyra, and definitely misses the mark as far as fusion is concerned. The production is excellent, or course, and the playing very good, but the composition is flat and colorless, the beat steady 4/4, with very little to distinguish one song from another. The title tracks are pretty cheesy too, and are a good indication of the type of music they represent. A couple of tracks stand out, but overall, not worth the investment.

This is a band that isn't given credit because there isn't anyone to give them credit. Noone knows about these guys. They are one of the best bands i have ever heard. The instromentals are breathtaking and even the tunes and melodies in the songs are catchy and very well phrased. The drummer really stands out because he hits hard and is definately a great live performer. Check this cd out, you won't be dissappointed.

This cd was Steve Smith's venture into Rippingtons and Yellow Jackets territory, I guess looking for the bucks. This is not the Steve Smith fusion with an edge that you are familiar with. Unless you like smooth jazz, Stay away!