Customer Reviews

A Twist of Marley: A Tribute

5 star:		(17)
4 star:		(6)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(4)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

I read a comment from a reviewer that stated, "If you are a reggae purist you probably won't like this CD." First and foremost, much love and respect to all the reggae purist. Lee isn't trying to recreate something that has been created. No one can do this better than Marley himself. A twist of Marley is Lee Ritenour's interpretation upon the music. What's really impressive about this CD is that Lee features various artist paying tribute to Marley. Truly keeping in the Marley spirit of unity. This entire CD is great from start to finish, and of course I have some of my favorites: "Get up stand up", "Could you be loved?" and "Redemption song." I've been an avid follower of Lee's work, and this particular CD is testimony as to why this man continues to produce quality music. Got cash? Get the CD.

If you are a reggae fan first and not a jazz fan, you may not like this CD. If you have no clue who Lee Ritenour is or you've never heard of Jonathan Butler, then you may feel like this CD is worthless! BUT, if you truly enjoy people like those above and Gerald Albright, Will Downing and Dave Grusin, you will put this CD at the top of your collaboration collection! Just the fact that those artists are performing together on this CD, any CD, is worth the price alone!

I love Bob Marley and his lyrics and this CD does no injustice to the Marley legend. Instead it bridges the gap between true contemporary jazz fans and reggae fans. It does exactly what the title says...gives it a "twist". I love both styles of music so I LOVE this CD.

Will Downing's version of "Is this Love" is almost hypnotizing. I love "get up Stand up" (Lee Rit and Grusin), "waiting in Vain" (Lee Rit and Maxi Priest), and "jamming" (Albright and Lee Rit).

If you want to add some variety to your collection and if you want something to play to entertain guests of all tastes (those who like neither jazz or reggae) buy this CD.

For someone like me who likes raggae, smooth jazz, and Bob Marley, this CD is fantastic. It never strays far from the underlying raggae sound, but at the same time gives you a whole new perspective on his songs. The cd includes one song with West African lyrics and is just beautiful. All in all I am so pleased to own this album, and I'm glad that I ordered 2 so that I can share it with my friends...

and go out this minute and buy this CD. Lee Ritenour has done it again with this brilliant salute to the master of Reggae, Bob Marley. In these days of uncertainty and troubled times, listen carefully to each track of this CD. You will feel renewed and washed clean with the joy and spirituality that was always in Marley's music. As always, Ritenour and his Merry Men (and women) revel in paying homage to the grand master, just like with his A Twist of Jobim CD (also a marvelous effort).

From Michael Brecker's phenomenal sax solos to the exquisite vox of Maxi Priest and Lisa Fischer, Dave Grusin's lovely piano tones, and Mr. Ritenour's gorgeous guitar riffs, this CD is a must for any jazz lover's collection. And to those naysayers that think Ritenour is "dissing" Marley's music, please read the liner notes. Mr. Ritenour says ..." Marley's message of freedom, courage, love and joy carry the same weight today as (sic) when he was alive... and as they will for future generations." Mr. Ritenour's respect for Marley's songs resounds from the rooftops!!

This was a great tribute to a wonderful artist, Bob Marley. If you are a reggae purist you may not like it but the fusion between jazz is great. I enjoyed the combination of artists that participated - great sounds.

Never could get into Marley until this album. Maybe his politics or lo-fi production just put me off. But I enjoy good musicians playing pop. I would have liked it even more if there were REAL percussion, or that it sounded REAL. Music played to click sounding tracks has its drawbacks. There were some opportunities for good fiery percussion here that were missed. So though I like the positivity and sunny approach to Marleys low-brow musings I couldn't rate this album higher than 3 stars, maybe 3.5 but just not a 4. High octane talent sure.... but, you need REAL sounding drums and percussion. All shine but the too reigned in drummers. I'm a guitar player but I'm nothing with out the sizzle of a great rhythm track. Richard Bona shines brightly. So too Rit. That cast is so great I expected more. However, I probably would've always dissed Marley without this production to open up his music for me. So thanks Rit!

When I first heard this CD in at the salon nearly 6 or 7 yrs ago, I begged my hairdresser to not only tell me what she was playing, but also to lend it to me. I subsequently bought one. Last Christmas we had an inter office gift exchange and the guy I got asked for some contemporary jazz as one thing I could get him. I immediately thought of this CD. When he opened his present he was BLOWN AWAY, and gave me a big hug! Not sure I've ever seen this usually reserved, older guy so excited about anything. He walked around showing it to everybody and said he couldn't wait to get home to listen to it!
I would recommend that this be a part of any jazz lover's collection, if nothing else, for the diversity it brings to jazz!

a must buy. Top guys & divas working together.
Excellent arrangement by Mr Lee.R.
Order. Play .Cloz eyes and dream.

Very good jazz album. Especially track #7: Jamming by Gerald Albright, which is an excellent jazz remix.

If you love reggae, love Bob Marley,or even think you might! This is a must have for your collection! Sit back, relax and take a mental cruise to paradise!