John Scofield
Überjam

This cover really seems conceived under acid. Undoubtedly stunning and colorful, perhaps a bit kitsch, but it's the kind of kitsch in which I naturally revel. In fact, as soon as I found it while rummaging through a second-hand stall, I seized it immediately for the modest sum of 5 euros.

I open the CD and read in the cover notes that "John Scofield wants his audience to know that (despite evocative tune titles) he has not used drugs and alcohol since July 1998." What a health-conscious bombshell. Good for him.

As soon as I pop it in the player, it reveals itself to be one of the most pleasantly funky albums I have ever listened to. And indeed, Scofield is probably one of the best jazz-funk guitarists currently out there. Moreover, in about half of the tracks, Scofield collaborates with another giant of funk-jazz, John Medeski of the band "Medeski Martin and Wood," a phenomenal virtuoso of the B3 organ.

The result is a truly complex and intricate sound tapestry, yet at the same time extremely immediate and easy-listening. A direct offspring of the Herbie Hancock sound from the '70s (you probably know "Head Hunters"). Also interesting is the hip-hop crossover in the track "I Brake 4 Monster Booty", not particularly daring but fun, it's perhaps the last thing you'd expect in the midst of a fusion album.

Overall, it's a rhythmic and jovial jazz, with cheerful and syncopated melodies. It's great to listen to in the car if you want to feel a bit like "Starsky and Hutch". Energetic and at the same time relaxing, a little tonic with meta-ampho-caffeine. In the end, a modest little disc, perfect as background music. Technically played to perfection and with gusto.

In the included link, you can listen to a lot of samples from this and other Scofield albums (I must say our volcanic guitarist has a very well-organized official website).

May the funk be with you!