Here's a cover/legacy/repertory/(whatever) project that stands head and shoulders above the usual type of effort in this area. Jack Bruce, Vernon Reid, Cindy Blackman Santana and John Medeski have teamed up to play the music of Tony Williams Lifetime.
Among the players in the current group, Spectrum Road, Bruce was a member of the original Lifetime, and Blackman was mentored by Williams. It's clear that all members are using this music as a starting point for something new, not as a nostalgia trip.
"Vuelta Abajo" (video above) showcases the fierce drumming of Blackman Santana and the intense shredding of Reid. It's interesting to hear, around the 2-minute mark, how the dynamics ratchet down a notch, but Reid's playing becomes more creative, integrating blowtorch runs with shreds of melody.
I'd like to hear more of Medeski's input and listen more closely to Bruce's approach to the music that he helped create 40 years ago. Spectrum Road has recently released an album by the same name — which must be added to the lengthening list of must-haves.
Among the players in the current group, Spectrum Road, Bruce was a member of the original Lifetime, and Blackman was mentored by Williams. It's clear that all members are using this music as a starting point for something new, not as a nostalgia trip.
"Vuelta Abajo" (video above) showcases the fierce drumming of Blackman Santana and the intense shredding of Reid. It's interesting to hear, around the 2-minute mark, how the dynamics ratchet down a notch, but Reid's playing becomes more creative, integrating blowtorch runs with shreds of melody.
I'd like to hear more of Medeski's input and listen more closely to Bruce's approach to the music that he helped create 40 years ago. Spectrum Road has recently released an album by the same name — which must be added to the lengthening list of must-haves.
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