Search - Eddie Harris :: Dancing By a Rainbow

Absolute Dynamite!!

Th3rdpwr | C.Hill, NC USA | 04/08/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Let's not waste time; I'd give this release 10 stars out of 5, if that were possible! Although recorded in 1995, this is pre-70s Eddie Harris; stripped down to the basics, the five member group gives us music that is solid groove oriented no holds barred jazz. Any who are familiar with Harris classics like "Listen Here', 'Sham Time', or his work with Les McCann, will be more than excited by what they hear on this cd. I'm not going to dissect each track, leaving that to individuals far more adept at such things; however, I can't resist describing the clear highlight of this effort, an updating of Harris' own classic 'Mean Greens'; by itself, worth the price of the cd. Clocking in at just under 13 minutes, everyone gets a taste of this piece; taken at a faster pace, askewing the originals more complex opening theme for a simpler statement, Harris and crew wastes no time getting right to the meat of things. The leader takes point and proves to still have been at the peak of his powers, giving us a bluesy, lyrical, solo with a touch of whimsy; everything you would hope. Trumpeter Nolan Smith, whom I'd never heard before, builds to almost Maynard Fergusonlike high notes; Jeff Chambers follows with a bass solo that bands once used to impress college aged males, he successfully gives the listener all he's got; up next is the true star of the piece, joining his old boss is former 70s Harris bandmember Ronald Muldrow; he is spectacular here! Beginning with confidence, Muldrow works his guitar solo to a musical frenzy; using all the tricks and skill at his disposal, he seems barely able to contain himself! Playing like this hasn't been heard since Melvin Sparks made his mark in the early 70s! What a welcome treat! One can, almost, hear the audience cheers and enthusiastic applause following Muldrow's effort. Indeed, although a studio recording, the entire cd has a live feel to it; simplified, basic themes, rich solos, concise endings. Believed to be Eddie Harris' final studio recording, he departed in fine fashion. If you've been a Harris fan, you NEED this cd. If you're merely curious, you can't go wrong here."