Keyboardist Neil Larsen's 1978 jazz-fusion release on Horizon Records features the horn work of soloist & session tenor Michael Brecker, who'd previously worked with Jaco Pastorius, Aerosmith and his own Brecker Brothe... more »rs, among others. Includes: the title track, 'Sudden Samba', 'Last Tango in Paris' & five others.« less
Keyboardist Neil Larsen's 1978 jazz-fusion release on Horizon Records features the horn work of soloist & session tenor Michael Brecker, who'd previously worked with Jaco Pastorius, Aerosmith and his own Brecker Brothers, among others. Includes: the title track, 'Sudden Samba', 'Last Tango in Paris' & five others.
CD Reviews
Smooth (but not boring)
Jim's neighbor | San Francisco, CA | 05/18/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I first heard and purchased this album when it was released and since then have gone through several (vinyl) copies, as I have played it numerous times over the years for myself and friends. What a sonic treat to finally have it beautifully remastered on CD.
The harmonic moods of Neil Larsen's organ combined with Buzz Feiten's guitar create a distinct, haunting, yet bright voice. During that period ('77-'81) Producer Tommy LiPuma was in his prime as a conduit for great talent (Brenda Russell, George Benson, Yellowjackets) and was adept at mining each player's unique talents for their better than best performance.
The tunes here are excellent and inventive. There is a reoccurring 'pop hook' focus to most of these compositions which is typical of the catchy riff syndrome of most '70s and '80s jazz albums that were not in the fusion camp, yet somehow this collection trancends that trend's predictability, mainly due to the vibrant group of musicians who's warm and dynamic interplay will inspire repeated listens.
The follow up LP "High Gear" (released the following year) could be described with an almost identical review, so consider them book end releases, and nab both titles
I would also advise burning back up copies since you'll most likely be playing (and sharing) them for a long time to come."
Exceptional Groove
Jorge Barbarosa | the back 9 | 04/01/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I can't believe they actually re-issued this. That's fantastic, this band was awesome! Feiten is in top form on the guitar, Larson is letting it all hang out. Tight rythmns, great bass work... and it STILL remains fresh after all this time. It certainly qualifies as one of the most under-rated releases in the last 30 years."
Great Songs, Great Buzz Feiten Guitar
stalker@home.com | Redondo Beach, CA USA | 06/20/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Chances are you're not stumbling upon this CD. Long out of print, this is Neil Larsens best group of songs and Buzz Feitens best guitar playing. The added bonus is that Andy Newmarks drumming is amazing! Great CD worth every cent!"
Fusion the way God intended
Scott Clayton | Mechanicsburg, PA United States | 10/04/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This may be a fusion album but it is a great example of how to do it the right way. Played with the passion of some of the best mainstream,classic jazz. Musicianship is first rate without being overdone. I agree with the other reviewer regarding Buzz Feiten's guitar work - absolutely first rate.As the Duke once said - There are basically only two kinds of music..Good Music and the other kind.This is some of the good stuff."
Jungle Fever - Catch it.
Scott Clayton | 09/04/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Jungle Fever is an awesome work from Neil. I bought this on vinyl back in my high school days and while at college, went to see Neil perform in Raleigh, NC. while there, I got Neil to autograph the jacket on the vinyl. My storied past aside, it is so refreshing to see this material available on CD. The sound is tight and undoubtedly someof the best jazz fusion you'll ever hear.
There was some other guy at the Neil Laresn show named Jarraeu."
Track Listings (8) - Disc #1