[.ca] Akoustic Band

A mixed bag....:
There's a lot of really masterful playing on this album; the problem is that it doesn't alway come together. At times it's more like three solists following a chart but not really listening to each other. Taken individually, the playing is first rate. Corea is playing better than he ever has. His take on tunes like "Sophisticated Lady" combines his unique style with classic tunes in a very appealing way. Pattitucci is a tremendously skilled bass player, and his facility on the fingerboard is impressive. The problem is that he's not supporting Corea so much as he is competing with him. The same goes for Weckl, who keeps a rock solid beat and shows off an impressive collection of chops. But here, too, you just don't hear any interplay between soloist and sideman. I suspect this album will have its greatest appeal to those who are more familiar with Corea's electric ensemble playing, as that's what it sounds most like. And that's not a bad thing, as it may help to introduce the electric fans to a new style. But those looking for traditional jazz trio playing would find more satisfaction in Corea's "Past, Present and Future" album.

get this one:
this was my second jazz cd. being new to the jazz arena, I have to say that chick corea definitely captivated my mind. I think all 3 musicians are very skillful, and the chemistry between them is truly awesome. this cd make chick corea my number one jazz pianist above everybody elese. I'm looking forward to collect all of his other works as well. The akoustic band cd is a must have for every serious hardcore fan.

Way to go Chick!:
This is in my opinion, the best group that Chick Corea has ever been in, and will ever be in. (Unless they decide to get back together again.) The song selection is quite good, and each artist's playing is superb! Obviously don't expect to hear any rhodes or electric keyboards, hence the name of the album "Akoustic Band," but that doesn't diminish the album any more. My favorite tracks are "T.B.C. (Terminal Baggage Claim)" and "Spain," which is an alternate arrangement from his 1970's take. Very good cd.

RHYTHMIC TIGHTNESS MAKES FOR A BLISTERING ALBUM:
The best thing about this album and the thing that makes it stand out from just about every other trio is the rhythmic tightness and energy. I think too often jazz players use excuses like "its supposed to be relaxed and free" for why they cannot all be perfectly working together as a unit, and why every player is slightly detached from the others rhythmically. However, Chick, John Patitucci and Dave Weckl have no time for lax rhythm but maintain a sharp focused sound that is literally overflowing with life and bounce.

An Interesting, Sophisticated Jazz Masterpiece:
In this album, Chick Corea returns to his early acoustic jazz style which he used in his early albums like Now He Sings, Now He Sobs. This album is not easy listening at all, I only started liking it after I listened to each of the songs a few times. Now this is one of my favorite albums, and it has the best rendition of Spain I've ever heard.

• Bessie's Blues
• My One and Only Love
• So in Love
• Sophisticated Lady
• Autumn Leaves
• Someday My Prince Will Come
• Morning Sprite
• T.B.C.
• Circles
• Spain