LIVE IN NEW YORK CITY, VOL. 7: HISTORY

Some years ago I bought the "Live in New York City" series via Mail Order at a grossly inflated price. I anticipated an orgasmic experience as I've seen Jaco perform live with Weather Report in 1980, or 1981. Indeed, he was the only highlight there doing an extended solo and numerous Hendrix renditions. He saved the evening as the band as a whole appeared to be disinterested, tired and the performance was barely mediocre.

In this series he plays pretty much his own material over and over again - minus the grunt - and it can get a bit tedious. The main difference is the format. Either as in a trio (like here), or with saxes. It appears to me that the trio format is where he is somewhat compelled to pay more attention, but even then he doesn't appear to be under much pressure in order to excel. His bouncy style on the bass remains predictable and whilst still very credible, boredom soon sets in with me.

My impression is that he was much more innovative as a band member than as a solo artist taking liberties. Based on these series, he appears to be a rather overrated artist and by no means would I belittle his general talent. The fact is that there is hardly anything outstanding here.

As of these series I'd recommend either this, Vol. 2, or Vol 4, but I see little point in obtaining more than one, or two discs of Jaco just having some fun.

It certainly is good, but as for one who enjoys Jazz, I'd be reluctant to call it an excellent addition, let alone essential.