Search - Bob Brookmeyer, Stan Getz, Herbie Hancock :: Bob Brookmeyer & Friends

With "Friends" Like Sony...

Michael B. Richman | Portland, Maine USA | 01/19/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I waited years for "Bob Brookmeyer and Friends" to get reissued, and when Sony pulled all of their infamous copy-protected, virus-attracting CDs, I was nervous that I would never have a chance to hear this album. Thankfully, Sony has produced new discs without the notorious software, and I have finally been able to purchase and listen to "Friends." Well it was probably inevitable that after all the hype and drama surrounding this title, I would be in for a let down. Don't get me wrong this is a solid session. Recorded in 1964, it features the incredible lineup of Brookmeyer, Stan Getz, Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter, Elvin Jones, and (then) newcomer Gary Burton. Unfortunately, in my opinion, the whole doesn't equal the sum of the parts. From the opening bars of "Jive Hoot," I could tell the emphasis here was more on a commercial sound than an experimental, modern one. Brookmeyer's arrangements and compositions surprisingly favor a more conventional and accessible approach. The playing throughout is subdued, and even Getz only simmers in a setting best suited to his style. (Come to think of it, '64 was when another Getz disappointment was made -- "Stan Getz & Bill Evans.") Of course, this approach really stymies the rhythm trio, particularly Jones who is pushed back in the mix. Even Tony Bennett, making a guest appearance on "Day Dream," one of three bonus tracks not on the original vinyl, can't save the day. Overall, this "Friend" is not tried and true, but instead a bit of the fair-weather variety."

So what's wrong with lyricism?

Case Quarter | CT USA | 10/16/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"this is probably the most lyrical cd i've heard, upbeat and hummable. i can't imagine hearing too much stan getz. his opening on misty is just great. all of the musicians here are great. i love the sound of brookmeyer's trombone in this setting. a bit commercial? so what. it marks an aspect of an era. it's not a tribute to body counts or a nod toward social awareness, what it is is good, enjoyable music."

Brookmeyer & Friends

Chris Covais | 11/01/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album is beautiful. Who would of thought that this pairing would work so well. You got an East Coast rhythm section, (Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter, Elvin Jones), West Coast horns, (Brookmeyer, Stan Getz) and a midwest vibraphonist, (Gary Burton in one of his early and few appearences as a sideman.)



The reviewer who thought this album was commercial represents everything thats wrong with most jazz listeners and musicians. There's nothing commercial at all about the first track. Because it's in a major key?

It's almost like a folk song, soulful and groovy. And nothing else on the album is really very commercial at all. This is jazz! And jazz at it's best.



I recommend this to anybody who likes great music. Don't be fooled by people who don't know what they're talking about, and who are afraid to listen to anything that's not bebop."