The Same Tunes But in a Very Different Form
06/11/2000
(3 out of 5 stars)
"On this CD, The Gil Evans Orchestra performs enjoyable versions of popular Jimi Hendrix songs. Overall, the arrangements are creative, while still remaining faithful to the originals. One unfortunate fact that does take away from the quality of the music is the heavy use of early electronic sounds and synthesizers. At the time of the recording, the orchestra was starting to explore such devices, and their heavy use in some of the songs, while probably sounding advanced and avante garde at the time, sound low-quality and dated now.This album would appeal more to Jazz Orchestra fans than screamin' guitar Hendrix fans, but anyone who enjoys the creative melodies of Hendrix' composition will enjoy those same melodies here, presented in this more soft and thoughtful form."
"Bizarre" doesn't even begin to describe it...
David McConnell (hermit13@enteract. | Chicago, Illinois | 05/23/1999
(2 out of 5 stars)
"It's weird, wacky and essential for collectors of the peculiar. The two-star ranking applies only to the musical arrangements - the intro to "Voodoo Chile" has to be heard to be believed; it rates a big five stars for concept. I don't know if the CD has the original liner notes that the LP had - I just ordered it today - but, if they are correct, Hendrix was supposed to record with Gil and his Orchestra shortly after the Isle of Wight Festival, but he died before the session could happen. If this recording is any indication, the result of Jimi recording with them would have been weird deluxe. But if you're really into the truly strange, this is another disc that belongs in your collection. Superb musicianship in an extremely odd context; I can't believe this has been reissued on CD!"
Cutting edge arrangements
06/09/1999
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I've actually owned this album for many years. Gil plays with a bunch of hungry young New York musicians in the early 1980's and pushes the envelope. Horns, synthesizers, gritty guitars, vocals. Some arrangements keep close to the original Hendix but most have unique interpretations. I love this CD."
Track Listings (9) - Disc #1