Search - Jan Hammer :: Drive

A Little Traveling Music: Maestro

Jeff Feezle | Indiana | 08/29/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

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First things first: the initial scan of the cd shown with the listing is the BACK insert of the cd. You have to look at the second customer image to see the front cover art. Now, down to brass tacks: you want to know whether this cd is worth buying, and what's it all about . . . This is melodic fusion keyboard jazz at it's supreme finest. You will probably best remember Jan Hammer from his incredible background music he wrote for the TV series: "Miami Vice." His style is best represented by a comparison to Jeff Beck, the guitarist extraordinaire. What Beck accomplishes by bending time and phrasing with multiple chords seemingly played simultaneously, Hammer can duplicate with a keyboard. Both have an intense solo style, often couched around a more mellow base melody. In short, they both are more interesting in `style' than in melody.



In this unique cd, Hammer displays both harmonious melodies with improvisational licks that will keep the traditional jazz enthusiasts happy. The overall mood of the music is upbeat, and is not a somber keyboard jazz piece like McCoy Tyner often exhibits. Instead, the fusion brainset of both Jeff Beck and Hammer combine on this cd to blend two superior playing abilities into a cohesive group effort. To top it all off, the horn section is courtesy of Michael Brecker. This is a great introduction to Jan Hammer, although it was one of his later cds and easily available at a decent price under $5.



well....what are you waiting for?



Jeff Feezle of Macafeez

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