Search - Rippingtons :: Live in L.A.

Best Live album ever recorded

Michael T. Howard | Libertytown, Maryland, USA | 03/03/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Live In L.A. was my introduction to Russ Freeman's incredible guitar playing and the music of the Rippingtons. I happened upon this album when it first appeared in 1993. I've bought everything Russ has done since. This album remains my favorite Rippingtons offering. The unity of the band during the 2 nights these songs were recorded is awe-inspiring. At the same time, we're treated to rare individual precision of each artist throughout the entire disk! Tony Morales' drumming causes new appreciation for those who handle the sticks. Kim Stone's bass riffs are astounding. Percussionist Steve Reid has earned a loyal following in his own right! Even the horn players are masters. Russ is especially appreciative of David Benoit's sitting in on piano on one track (who wouldn't be?). As always, Russ never disappoints with his incredible licks. I've never tired of listening to this recording and I know it's strong to say it's the best live album ever but I honestly testify it's true in my experience."

AWSOME !!!

H. J. Sandford | Yorkshire, England | 03/24/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"A dedicated Ripps fan I have the entire collection of their albums and this one without a shadow of a doubt is their finest!! They dont come any better than these guys and I cant understand why they havent done any other live albums. Of course we look forward to the release of Live Across America next May with great anticipation and it begs the question "hey guys how about a UK tour?"I once heard someone say that you really cant capture the magic and beauty of really good music in a review and I have to say never a truer word said. The capture of the crowd's rapture in this cd is superb and there is no way I could do it justice. You really can imagine the atmosphere of actually being there.I'm a passionate lover of the jazz guitar but the Rippingtons quite simply have great beat. If you havent purchased a Ripps cd before I recommend you start with this one and then move on to Black Diamond or Life in the Tropics.Keep em coming Russ - your the best !!!"

Great live album!

Jarvis Johnson | Long Beach, CA United States | 06/14/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The great thing about the Rippingtons is that they are not a traditional jazz group. They overlap the boundaries that divide pop and jazz, and do so successfully. "Live In L.A." is actually better than the studio recorded material of the Rippingtons because (a)it shows the great musicianship of the players, and (b)it shows the energy provided by the band. I personally like the first song, "Indian Summer", the best. Russ Freeman and Jeff Kashiwa both shine with guitar and sax solos, respectively. Overall, this is a great live album, and a definite must-own for any fan of this group."