Search - Fourplay: Live in Capetown on DVD

Fourplay: Very Live in Capetown

Patrick Broenkow | Kirkland, WA USA | 08/24/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I am a jazz musician who seldom listens to what is called "Smooth Jazz." I find it is typically fairly bland with occasional exceptions.

That being said, I was invited to a Fourplay concert in Seattle at Jazz Alley. I was aware of the reputation and work of the players who currently make up the band and I was looking forward to a nice, if not too exciting of an experience at the show.

To make this short, I was astounded at what I witnessed. Fourplay used their smooth jazz repetoire as a mere platform to explore opportunities to create and excite. The juxtaposition of music with a great groove and on-the-edge musical adventure featuring in-depth interplay between players and virtuosity of improversation left me hungry for more.

I purchased a CD of their music and listened to it on the way home. To my displeasure, I found the recordings with some exception to revert back to the smooth jazz that I, franky, have slept through in the past.

Not satisfied with that outcome, I bought the DVD Fourplay: Live at Capetown. I was convinced that a Live DVD would likely capture what I experienced at Jazz Alley, especially if they found a performance that they were satisfied enough with to release.

When the DVD arrived and I imediately put it on to watch. I was taken back to that superlative performance I enjoyed so much. These men hit it out of the park. The performance is as near flawless as anyone could achieve. Solos were engaging and the audience was very appreciative. The quality of the recording is amazing with obvious care being taken in post production. You simply must see this DVD to know what Fourplay is all about. I don't think studio CDs do them justice.

I have watched this several times and it always satisfies. I have also shared it with musician friends and the reaction is unanimous. Great Stuff!"