The Chick Corea Elektric Band: The Future Is Now

I had the pleasure of seeing Chick Corea perform solo, just Chick and his piano. This took place at a famous jazz club in Schenectady New York called the Van Dyke, a very intimate setting. What I remember distinctly is how engaging and interactive Chick was with the audience. He talked between every song, and made you feel as if he was speaking directly to you. The other takeaway was how at ease he was, and he definitely had a presence.

According to articles, this was compiled by Corea before his passing in February of 2021, the performances were captured during their 2016/2017 tours. The opener “Charged Particles� is Frank Gambale’s shining moment, good lord, he is on fire. If you are a fan of late night television, you’ll remember David Letterman’s band being labeled the world’s most dangerous band. No disrespect intended, but The Elektric band should have that title! Chick’s music always has a bright feel, and the melodies stay with you. To be able to create music this complex and memorable is a rare feat. These live performances add an edge in comparison to their studio versions, just that extra little oomph that elevates them to the next level. You get a Latin flavor in “Trance Dance�, with Corea and Eric Marienthal, and John Patitucci all taking some stellar solos. Corea dances all over his electric piano on the intro to “Cta�, and the tight intricate arrangement will have you moving. Patitucci and Weckl are magic, locked in and grooving together effortlessly and it feels like the band are taking chances here. “Ished� is five musicians at the height of their powers, but the closer “Got A Match� as the saying goes, saves the best for last. High energy, and a melody that you can’t shake, this is how you end a live show.

If you aren’t familiar with the Elektric Band, I can’t think of a better starting point than right here. These tracks are extended, and yet are played so skillfully, the time flies, nothing drags. Exciting live performances of some of their best tracks, with that extra bite you get from live performance. You are treated to two hours of some incredible music and musicianship. Corea is a once in a generation musician, you owe it to yourself to hear this world class band in their element.

Track List:
1. Charged Particles
2. Trance Dance
3. Cta
4. Jocelyn �" The Commander
5. Beneath The Mask
6. Ished
7. Alan Corday
8. Johnny’s Landing
9. Got A Match

Added: November 18th 2023
Reviewer: Eric Porter
Score:
Related Link: Artist Website
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Language: english

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