Andrew Mendez | White Bear Lake, MN USA | 12/31/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This CD is a wonderful beginning to those venturing forth into the world of acid jazz, let alone the world of Cal Tjader. My most favorite cuts are "Cherry Blossoms" and "Theme from Burke's Law." These cuts, although diametrically opposed (musically speaking), present just the duality this CD offers. First, the Asian-influenced cuts create a sultry and spicy flavor of music for you to enjoy. The second half offers a more mellow, cocktail party-like atmosphere. No doubt you WILL find favorite cuts among the choice selection "Several/Breeze" offers!"
I can't belive no one has writen a review for this yet!
11/02/1999
(4 out of 5 stars)
"this CD or Two albums are well recommended. especially for the at the time original "Several Shades of Jade" sounds from the middle east(THE FAKIR)down to the south (BORNEO)across and up a bit(TOKYO BLUES,HOT SAKE) not to mention all the bits in between (SONG OF THE YELLOW RIVER, CHINA NIGHTS etc) all underlined by latin'ish rhythems so well known by Tjader fans. I would place the first of thease two albums amoungst Cal's best. "Breeze from the East" well theres the brilliant painting "The Wave of Kanagawa" by Hokusai on the cover and then theres the track "BLACK ORCHID" a very basic piece of class as for the rest of this album I would encourage the listener to make up their mind. If it was'nt for the inclusion of the second album on this CD I would not hesitate to give it five stars, but please not let that discourage a potential buyer of this wonderful CD as I am shure they wont be disapointed."
Breeze From the East is a wonderful album
Carole B. | 04/12/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Thanks to Verve Records (a division of Polygram Classics & Jazz) for remastering these. I bought this CD to replace my LP of Breeze from the East. I understand many critics, and Cal Tjader himself, prefer the "similarly-themed" album Several Shades of Jade, included on this CD. I do like several of "Jade's" nine tunes. But I was surprised to frequently hear a Big Band sound on that album - lots of brass; standard-fare and/or annoying percussion. Those same critics have pointed out faults of "Breeze." But there is a consistent, intriguing mix of instruments and rhythms here that are melded with - and not overpowering of - Cal's vibraphone riffs. A refreshing breeze all the way through."
Great Listening for Nearly Any Occassion
P. McCann | Rockford, IL | 03/31/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The first time I heard Several Shades of Jade was way back in 1968 as an undergraduate student, and I recall playing it non stop. Tjader has continued to follow my many years and various interests. It remains today among my favorite CDs for the house as well as the car."
Shades of Jade
Rosalie Knudson | California | 09/22/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have not heard this music since the early 60's, when I used to listen to the album. It is great to hear it again, and it sounds as good today as it did then!! Favorite on this CD: The Fakir"