[.ca] Dreamland

The Eclectic "Jackets" Win Again.:
As big a fan of the roots that the Yellowjackets blossomed from, the decade of the '90's continues to be an amazing romp in the fusion world with the usual steady traits that have made this band one of the all time greats. In the past decade, The Yellowjackets produced brilliant recordings that reminds me of the way the New York Yankees produced baseball championships, after a while, it becomes the norm to expect excellence with every outing. Dreamland doesn't dissapoint nor does it even come close, in fact, if it we're possible, they just keep getting better. The band envolves musically and highlights this project with a maturity reflected in diversity, arrangement and some risk taking. When you can drop a clarinet in the middle of a soft song as the melody and it's not your usual sound, trust me, you're taking risks, confident about who you are and growing by willing to be different! Never settling for usual, the Yellowjackets not only embrace change, but they give it a bear hug resulting in their most diverse recording to date. Although change isn't always met with good results, consider this the exception. Here's a few to look for: Four Favorite Tracks 1. The Chosen 2. Summer Song 3. Dreamland 4. Take My Hand "The Chosen" is a softly played piece highlighting brilliant sax and effortless chord progressions with a nice horn section in the chorus. My goodness what a song! If you're in a reflective mood, this is your soundtrack. Fans of scat are sure to take notice on the hypnotic "Summer Song" featuring tour de force performances on vocals while the composition flirts with a smooth jazz sound. The opening vocals sequence is extraordinary. This isn't the mass produced smooth jazz you would find on the dial of you stereo, this is a deep composition with knockout production. What a mind blower! One of the more usual songs is the brilliant "Dreamland" that showcases Russell Ferrante's awesome songwriting. The balance of the song is very appealing, equally carrying the weight of melody is piano and sax both driven with precise percussion. One of my favorites is "Take My Hand". This song really has a light ballad feel to it. Actually I always thought would make a great upbeat slow dance song. Don't be fooled, it's not mushy, in fact this song sets a great tempo and you can tell these guys are having fun recording this. Great melody and superb saxophone as only the "Jackets" can deliver. Overall another strong project with the Yellowjackets charm and inventiveness. Can't beat the champs, hang up another banner and enjoy this wonderful recording.

Smooth and good listening:
Another very good yellowjackets cd. Smooth and relaxing, the music is great to put on as a background. Bobby Mcferrin adds a nice sound. Definitely 5. Later -H.D.S.

My favorite jazz group:
This is an excellent album. There are many different styles of jazz present here so any jazz fan would find something to get attached to. This is the first jazz group that was refered to me and I have been listening to them every since. This album in particular is my favorite. I never thought that music could bring tears to my eyes until I heard the title cut, Dreamland. I is dedicated to one of the musicians' baby. I loved the song so much that I learned to play it on the piano. Every time I get to the section of the bass solo, I get misty eyed. The piano arrangement is beautiful. I highly recommend.

Dreaming:
Appropriately titled CD. The music is probably some of the Yellowjacket's most mellow, melodic tunes. Very good long drive music for letting your mind wander as you endure hours of boring scenery. The music will pick you up and take you to places you've never been to before and make even the bleakest surroundings seem bright. Enjoy. Peace Out.

Creamy smooth funk/jazz:
This is one of the most 'creamy' albums I've ever heard. Listen to track #1! Fly on the little, yellow cloud and hum along. Dream along with Bobby McFerrins super-soft singin' on #3. Wow. Just, wow. If you are to buy ONE of the Yellowjackets' albums, buy this. No hesitation.

• Chosen
• Blacktop
• Summer Song
• Small Town
• Walk in the Park
• Turn in Time
• Father Time
• New Lullaby (For Gabriela)
• Dreamland
• Take My Hand