Customer Reviews

Synergy

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

 

 

As a drummer and a jazz fan I am dissappointed with the lack of jazz on radio stations (including those so-called "Smooth Jazz" ones that are turning out to be merely oldies stations). This CD has it all in terms of hard core fusion (with a modern touch) and smooth, relaxing tracks. I cannot tell you how refreshing it is to finally get a hold of the kind of exciting, hard core music that I call "rock jazz". This CD is a must- have if you are a drummer. It illustrates how short solos can be a part of the whole song and not overpower the tune.

Dave has finally come full circle. His previous projects have always showcased him as the lead musician with his rudimentally monster filled, hard driving chops... and rightly so, playing in intricate meters that seem mind blowing to other drummers. But this CD displays the group effort that allows his bandmates to showcase their varied musical talents. A refreshing, exciting change. But make no mistake, when Dave gets to solo, he definitely reminds you that "Hey... I'm Dave Weckl"...

I much prefer acoustic jazz to electric; but being a drummer, I buy ever new Dave Weckl CD that comes out. The guy is just so smooth it's ridiclous. Although every aspect of his drumming is nearly flawless, his combo tom/splash fills are just the best. Additionally, Buzz Feiten plays some great guitar solos on this record, particularly track 2. Unfortunately, he won't be on the new release. Jay Oliver has left the band too. Personally, I love over-the-top drums, and could listen to Dave's earlier solo-fest recordings all day. That is why this recording and the first Weckl Band release were a little disappointing to me at first. I wasn't expecting so much in the pocket playing from Dave. They grow on you though. All of the songs are inventive and well crafted. After repeated listening, you become more and more in awe of what the best of the best can do. Can't wait for his new one. Check out the live mp3s downloadable from Dave's website. They will blow your head off!

The Dave Weckl Band returns with their second release, "Synergy", to find a more diverse and exciting forray into instumental soundscapes. If the first release, "Rhythm of the Soul", gave you a thrill, this album will blow you clean out of your chair. Of course, this album will be snatched up by musicians, due to the impressive lineup, but the general jazz afficionado will also be stunned at the level of playing and compsition this release has to offer. "Highlife" starts out the album with a joyus 12/8 stomp that preludes the fun to come. "Panda's Dream", a composition offered from guitar legend Buzz Feiten, soars with beautiful tones and melodies. Another happy musical brawl, "Swunk" is a fast-paced mix of (of course) funk and swing. Rapidly changing through paces, it's nearly 5 minutes are over just leaving you wanting more. Finally, a lovely reprieve with another Feiten composition, "A Simple Prayer". "Cape Fear" is an ominous jam leading off with Tom Kennedy on bass and Dave chugging like a demented carnival train. That should give you an idea of this moody jam. A song that would do ol' JB proud, ("Say it Loud!") "Wet Skin" is a tribute to the sound that Dave grew up to. The aptly title track, "Synergy", is a wonderful showcase of a myriad of different styles from latin, jazz, and funk. The jazz ballad, "Where's My Paradise", (God, that man Buzz can write!) is a beautiful example of the maturity that this band has come into. Now, what's a drummer's album without an odd-time groove? "Lucky Seven", a Brandon Fields composition, is the tricky meter 7/4 that we as musicians have come to love. Back it up with such funky sax, a person could almost dance to this. Then watch them start snapping their fingers. (Giggle here!) One of my personal favorites, "Swamp Thing", incorporates the New Orleans funk with purposeful melody lines that drive this tune. Just sit there. I dare you. Ahh, the last bastion; the drum solo. "Cultural Concurrence" is a dizzying display of ethnic percussion and drum set mastery. Beginning with tribal triplets, it quickly spins on one heel into a slamming 4/4 of an onslaught of Dave's latest bag 'o' tricks. Just about laid down the sticks after this track. (Naaaaaah!) The only tune performed from Dave's past albums, "Tower '99" is a return visit to "Tower of Inspiration" from his album "Master Plan". Revamped, and giving the indelible stamp of the whole band, this send-up to the Tower of Power influences Dave grew up with, is a fitting transition from the past to the bright future this collective has in front of them. All in all, this is a album that doesn't sacrifice groove and feel for the technical wizardry. Challenging as well as fun to listen to makes "Synergy" a shining gem in any music lovers collection.

By far, this is my favorite of The Dave Weckl Band. Yes, his previous releases really were a whole bunch of flying sticks bashing out ridiculously perfect rhythms. But this album shows true musicianship and very nice composition. I think this is the one that turned peoples' heads and made them realize that Dave Weckl is far more than just a master percussionist.

And for the one that thinks there was an "infringement"...synergy is a word...you can't trademark a word and think that suddenly that word can't be used.
From Webster's dictionary:
Synergy -
1. The interaction of two or more agents or forces so that their combined effect is greater than the sum of their individual effects.
2. Cooperative interaction among groups, especially among the acquired subsidiaries or merged parts of a corporation, that creates an enhanced combined effect.

If you look at those two descriptions, both describe the music on this album to a "t".

Dave Weckl is an amazing musician, this is clearly stated in this great album, his drumm-driven compositions are enjoyable even to those who dont really care about the drummer. Great playing all around and a very fun recording, i keep comming back to this one.

I have all of Dave Weckl's CD's. I've seen him play 4 times. He is one of the greatest drummers of our time. The only drummer better than him is his favorite drummer, Vinnie Colaiuta (drummer for Sting). All of the songs on this CD are ultra-hip! Jay Oliver and Dave Weckl are excellent composers. This is definitely a winner, as with the rest of Dave Weckl's recordings.

This is an absolutely incredible masterpiece! As a bassist I can really appreciate the superb rythym section and incredible grooves. The opening track 'High Life' is a great starter, but every track graps you by the phoenominal playing and brilliant musicianship. Brandon Fields does a marvellous job on sax as does Tommy Kennedy on bass (with some breath taking solos).. Before I run out of superlatives completely, BUY IT!!

It is great! The melodies are great. The muscians are top notch. The drumming...What did you expect? Its Dave Weckl! One of my favorite drummers! Arguably one of the best modern drummers in the world. (No this isn't Dave Weckl writing the review) If you are a drummer and you don't own this CD you owe it to yourself to check this out! The CD is great for non-drummers as well! Worth the money!

Dave Weckl out did himself again...The cd has some great grooves and super solos.The grooves are funkier and more complicated than Rhythm of the Soul.It is a must buy for drummers!