|
jazz is dead isn't even a real jazz band like it's a cover of grateful dead.anyway I think the music is good.I'm not huge fan of regular jazz music like miles davis, etc. This band Jazz is Dead, and also others like Jeff Beck an instrumentals that Frank Zappa did is the closest to jazz music that I'll ever like.So if you like instrumentals then check out this band or if your into fushion jazz or rock jazz or whatever then you get the picture.
"Fool me once -shame on you. Ultimately, this sophomore release is equally mediocre; it just has more focus since it covers "Wake of the Flood." I now hypothesize that the good reviews for "Laughting Water" are a result of circular reporting. This was a big selling point since I've always been one of those few heads who actually appreciated Donna's singing. I was disappointed by the fact that the recording contained no jazz and the instrumental rock was mediocre and bland. So you thought she was good enough to use as an advertising gimmick, but you didn't think that she deserved the "honor" of actually playing with you. That written, I still believed in the potential of Jazz Is Dead based on the project's vision and the otherwise quality musicians. Fool me twice -shame on me." I purchased "Blue Light Rain" as soon as it was released, ecstatic at the potential of a Grateful Dead inspired jazz band. Furthermore, this CD came with a big sticker that proudly advertised the participation of Donna Jean Godchaux.
I hoped that these guys would learn from their initial mistakes and redeem themselves the second time around. When "Laughing Water" came out in 1998, I immediately picked it up. All the band "gave her" was a 45 second a cappella track to introduce 'Mississippi Half-Step.' That's it. Cashing in on the true talent of the Grateful Dead, Jazz Is Dead is an undistinguished knock-off.
They try and play a bunch of Dead ballads and it's kind of cheesy. I love Jimmy Herring and Alphonso Johnson, both killer players. But this album is pretty lame. Get "Blue Light Rain" instead, that one is sweet. Especially the "Blues for Alla Medley," face-melting.
Simply put, this is the best Grateful Dead cover. To me, it'seven better than most Dead recordings. Alphonso Johnsons basslines on "Row Jimmy" are woth purchasing this cd.
JiD play tunes with their own interpretations. It seems when people cover the Dead they always try to sound to true to the original. they know it is futile to try and match the magic that Jerry, Phil, Bobby, et al put forth on stage, so they make the music their own. that's not what I consider creative. But when a group of hardcore jammers like Jazz is Dead play they put a new spin on things. It's awesome. The hightlights include "Row Jimmy" "Eyes of the World" and a killer "Weather Report Suite"
|
