ROCKIN' JAZZ
Baddstuff | astoria, ny United States | 04/26/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I just got this disc today and I love it. I recently caught Hiromi and the band at the Blue Note in New York and they played selections from this disc and it worked live as well. I wish I had gotten the CD before I saw them but it really doesn't matter. The addition of guitarist Dave ' Fuze' Fiuczynski was a great move by Hiromi. He brings another dimension to the band and his playing is tasteful throughout. He and Hiromi nail it down. Bassist Tony Grey and drummer Martin Valihora are superb. I am especially impressed with Martin. He is fairly new to me but his playing is very impressive.
If you're looking for a traditional jazz CD, this isn't it. Hiromi continues to mix in electronic keys and does so very nicely. The fusion element is present throughout and since I'm a fusion head, it works for me. All in all a very well put together disc. I know Hiromi has been getting quite a bit of hype lately and that may turn some people off and they may not see what all the fuss is about. I could care less as I don't pay much attention to that stuff. I have always let my ears be the judge and that's worked pretty good for me thru the years. Hype or no hype, I like what Hiromi is doing, period!
[...]"
Best jazz in years
Howard M. Edwards | 03/28/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Hiromi has done it again. Big time. Hiromi is the best thing to happen to jazz since "Heavy Weather" came out 30 years ago. Inventive. Creative. And every player is at the top of their game. The addition of a guitarist added a new energy to Hiromi's music, as if she needed any more energy. "Fuze" often plays a fretless guitar, which is very different, and fits perfectly. If we could give six stars for "over the top good," this one would get it! Every single song is great."
Hiromi's Sonicbloom; Time Control
Michael Musial | 05/02/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I've been a huge fan of Hiromi Uehara for several years even though I'm not the biggest fan of some of her albums. Don't get me wrong, she is a HUGE talent and it baffles me that most of the world hasn't woken up to discover her. Hiromi is very impressive on her current album. Her sound still remains in tact; blazing rythmic chops that don't come out too jumbled. This is my favorite album by far. I liked it right away. There are moments where I hear Mahavishmu Orchestra, Brand X, James Hurt, Weather Report, Pat Metheny etc.
As a drummer, Martin Valihora is EXTREMELY impressive on this album. I especially enjoy his Drum & Bass licks at the beginning of Time Travel.
Buy this album but more importantly watch these musicians live! Hiromi is an amazing colorful performer. She's uplifting, energetic and very passionate about her music."