Yellowjackets
Heads Up, 2005, CD
Instrument: INSTRUMENTAL
Issue: 11.1
Jazz Ruler Type: R&B+Jazz
Performance: 4
Sound: 4
Score: 
O’s Notes: Russell Ferrante (keyboards), Bob Mintzer (sax), Jimmy Haslip (b) and Marcus Baylor (d) are back with another fine blend of popular jazz-fusion. There are eleven new compositions, each written by members of the band. Mixed among the usual instrumentals is “The Hope” with strong harmonized female vocals led by Jean Baylor. What makes the Yellowjackets stand out is the complexity of the passages, the unusual meters and harmony. It is orchestrated while maintaining accessibility to mainstream audiences.