Oh the days of old (early 80’s) when we jazz lovers would drop everything and head to a venue and see Jeff Lorber Fusion perform. I recall three concerts at the Exit-In (Nashville) where we all were happily packed into the small confine of the famous night spot. During that period Jeff’s band consisted of Jeff Lorber-Keyboards, Dennis Bradford –Drums, Danny Wilson -Electric Bass and Kenny Gorelick (Kenny G) alto & tenor saxophone, Flute. We partied to the sounds of the Soft Space, Wizard Island and Water Sign albums. Now Is The Time is a reflection of the old experience with a twist of now.
It’s only fitting to jumpstart this cd with “Rain Dance/Wanna Fly”. The groove is nasty with the added vocals of Irene B. You can feel the fusion vibe in Jeff’s new composition “Dr. Moy”. The instruments flow with the energy of a revitalized band. The tracks that will be added to my road trip mix are “Pixel” and “Sugar Free”. This will be a welcome addition to my ipod.
Jeff spices it up with the addition of Weather Report’s “Mysterious Traveller”. This track hit the spot bringing back memories of Shorter and Zawinul and Pastorius.
One of my favorite Jeff Lorber Fusion tracks is “Curtains” and it is remarkable how the “Before We Go” lyrics were added to this instrumental sung by Irene B. Another fusion favorite “Black Ice” cools off this hot mix of killer tracks.
Jeff show cases his remarkable keyboarding with Las Rosas and Chinese Medicinal Herbs. You can feel that Jeff truly enjoyed making this project. Wrapping it with “Water Sign” an old crown pleaser, you can’t help but get on you feet and dance to this. Jeff leaves you with the upbeat “Sumatra” as a reminder that this cd has a special place in your collection. A job well done Jeff!
Jeff Lorber Fusion is:
Jeff Lorber keyboards
Jimmy Haslip Bass
Eric Marienthal sax
Randy Brecker trumpet
Paul Jackson Jr. guitar
Dave Weckl drums
Irene B. vocals
Review By:
Jerry “The Mouse” Clark
Mellow Madness Music
