Steve Coleman makes some of the most unique music I have ever heard. I would describe it as extremely intelligent, conceptual, modern funk jazz. Although some 'fusion' music makes compromises in order to come together, this does not. Steve Coleman has been doing his thing for years and this music and this band is VERY tight, real, and highly evolved.
Imagine James Brown's band jamming in some inner city nightclub. Whilst getting 'funky', a mummy walks in and starts expanding their minds with some trippy ancient Egyptian philosophical concepts. Then Einstein comes in to help them apply these ideas to their music. Suddenly the drummer is playing in 9/8 time, the bassist in 7/8 and the pianist in 3.5/6. Charlie Parker walks in and hears this crazy-mad funk, pulls out his horn and starts to blow... That kinda describes just some of Coleman's Five Elements stuff.
Also check Tale of 3 Cities – Best rap/jazz hybrid ever. TIGHT grooves and rapping.
and The Sign and the Seal – sublime afro-cuban beauty.
Anybody else dig this cat???
Imagine James Brown's band jamming in some inner city nightclub. Whilst getting 'funky', a mummy walks in and starts expanding their minds with some trippy ancient Egyptian philosophical concepts. Then Einstein comes in to help them apply these ideas to their music. Suddenly the drummer is playing in 9/8 time, the bassist in 7/8 and the pianist in 3.5/6. Charlie Parker walks in and hears this crazy-mad funk, pulls out his horn and starts to blow... That kinda describes just some of Coleman's Five Elements stuff.
Also check Tale of 3 Cities – Best rap/jazz hybrid ever. TIGHT grooves and rapping.
and The Sign and the Seal – sublime afro-cuban beauty.
Anybody else dig this cat???