2010-08-23
Between the band name and the line-up, I knew I was going to like this one. This is jazz with punk attitude. The Dead Kenny G's are a free-jazz Melvins, if you will. Formed in Seattle in 2004, this is Mike Dillon, Skerik, and Brad Houser's first release together, although all three band members have worked in the same bands at different times over the years (Garage A Trois, Billy Goat, Critters Buggin, Les Claypool's Flying Frog Brigade, etc.). Backed by strong percussion and bass, Skerik often uses electronic effects on his sax which lends many of the songs an aggressive character. Other times, Mike Dillon's vibes take the lead for more of a classic sound. All in all this is modern jazz that is well worth a listen. Rebecca RuthMELODY GARDOT
My One and Only Thrill
Joel Harrison
Spirit House
MAUREEN CHOI QUARTET
Maureen Choi Quartet
BURT BACHARACH
At ThisTime
RASHIED ALI QUINTET
Judgment Day
VARIOUS
Rumble In the Great Lakes (Best of the Detroit Jazz Fest 2007)
The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.