Michael Brecker/London,UK 1998 & more

In 1998, after releasing the masterpiece “Two Blocks from the Edge,” Michael performed at the Barbican in London with his own quartet, and this live album has been released, shocking fans. It is a recording of the amazing live performance that was rebroadcast by the British public broadcaster BBC. The members are Joey Calderazzo, who Michael trusts highly, on piano, James Zinas on bass, and Ralph Peterson on drums, making this the strongest quartet. The sharp touch of Michael’s tenor and Calderazzo, and the passionate improvisations are the highlights of this album. The last song, “Song for Bilbao,” is a great performance that runs straight to the grand finale. In addition, this work is a “Deluxe Edition,” and disc 2 includes a 1 hour 32 minute live DVD of the performance at the Gorizia Jazz Festival held in Italy in 2004, which is being released for the first time. This video was recorded by a fan from the front row of the second floor audience, but it is a powerful video with a lot of extra-large zoom. It is a work that penetrates the soul of those who love Michael. Disc 1 1.Slings And Arrows 2.El Nino 3.Cat’s Cradle 4.Delta City Blues 5.By George 6.Song For Bilbao Live at the Barbican Hall, London 07/05/1998 Michael Brecker (ts) Joey Calderazzo (p) James Jinas (b) Ralph Patterson (dr) Disc 2 1.Arc of The Pendulum (inc) 2.Slings and Arrows 3.The Cost of Living 4.Midnight Voyage 5.Naima 6.Autumn Leaves 7.Bye George Michael Brecker (ts) Joey Calderazzo (p) Chris Minh-Dawkey (b) Jeff Watts (dr) Live at the Gorizia Jazz Festival, Italy 02/21/2004 (DVD)