Since the end of the legendary Weather Report, Joe Zawinul's musical travels have never ceased. His ever-evolving group the Zawinul Syndicate has long led the way in blending various world-music styles into contemporary jazz/rock. This magnificent double-live disc, WORLD TOUR, captures the group in a series of European performances that can only be described as mesmerising. From the larger-than-life keyboards of the leader to the world rhythms of drummer Paco Sery and ex-Weather Reporter Manolo Badrena, this is a treat for the senses.
While everything Zawinul touches will remind followers of WR, it is fair to say that this group has a sound all its own. The vocals of Badrena, Sery and Richard Bona lend spirituality to the musical amalgam. This, coupled with Zawinul's fusion know-how and desire to include all of the music in his world, makes for a colourful mix, indeed. In fact, there are so many varieties of cultural flavours, it is sometimes difficult to grasp it all. The often dense textures, however, are what give the music its strength and beauty. Repeated listening to these performances will reveal many new discoveries.|
Rovi