Chako, Greg
Chako, 2001, CD
Instrument: Guitar
Issue: 8.1w
Jazz Ruler Type: Latin
Performance: 4
Sound: 4
Score: 
O’s Notes: Greg’s first release of Integration was in 2000, a blend of musicians and music of different cultures. Chako, himself is from Cincinnati but moved to Hong Kong in 1992 and to Singapore in 1994 and has since gone native there. His adaptation of a new culture comes through in his music. He shares the stage with his fellow musicians and makes a good contribution with his guitar as well. His jazzy playing is relaxed and confident. Most of the upbeat tunes share a groove that will makes your head bounce. Of note are “Coming Home”, “Inspiration Blues” and “Poiciana”. Integration II (2001 release) continues the trend but with adds more fusion elements. The addition of Greg Lyons on sax extends the range of the band. Simply put, Chako has two solid and entertaining modern jazz albums with Latin, straight-ahead and contemporary/fusion based songs.
