Blues for Tony

For rabid Allan Holdsworth devotees, this is a slightly different album. Not dramatically different, but the inclusion of Jimmy Haslip and Alan Pasqua makes for a different tone set, different soloing styles, different song offerings than the usual Holdsworth album. I am a longtime Holdsworth fanatic. This is a very interesting album in my estimation. Great production, everyone sounds great! Great performances abound, and the impetus for the album is very thoughtful and appropriate as well (A tribute to the late, great, Tony Williams, ground breaking and innovative fusion percussion stylist). Chad Wackerman, who regularly tours with Holdsworth, sounds invigorated and fresh, as well as his usual masterful playing. All the players on this album seemed to be inspired and invigorated working in this somewhat different outting. If you are a fusion fan, or a Holdsworth fan, this should be an interesting and provocative album for you. The songs are interesting vehicles for this group of soloists, and all leave their own unique stamp on each song. Pasqua and Holdsworth seem to blend well, and each seems to provide the project with a wealth of different tones, approaches, and incendiary soloing. This is also a unique opportunity to hear Jimmy Haslip step out a bit more than in usual recordings. Haslip is solid, inspired, and I was personally a bit surprised how readily and well he fit in this slightly higher profile/octane style of performance. Definitely a must have for the devoted Holdsworth listener!

I was actually at a concert where I saw these guys play all this stuff. I tell you, it was AMAZING! These guys are all such virtuosic musicians, and when they come together in one amazing jazz-fusion band, you just know it's gonna be awesome. And from the beginning piano line of the opening song, you can tell how good the album will be. BUY IT!

The best Holdsworth album by far, and I've been steeped in his music since 1975. Alan Pasqua just rips this up and Holdsworth just kills - his tone, power, and virtuosity are like no one else on the planet. The recording quality is so transparent that everyone's parts shine through beautifully. Just buy it! And remember the old adage: Holdsworth Rules, Satriani drools.

With a distinct ear for perfection these four musicians come together for an exceptional live record. The album opens with the title track and explodes with percussion, then "The Fifth" cools things down and gets you entranced which is where you stay for the rest of the songs. You music check this one out!!