BUDDY RICH BIG BAND
Buddy & Soul (Pacific Jazz)
Reviewed by John Sekerka

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Here's a prime example as to why Buddy Rich was chastised by the jazz community. While rock'n'roll was threatening to obliterate the jazz scene in the sixties, instead of rallying against the upstart and often mindless art of pop, Buddy Rich jumped on the bandwagon and started covering the hits of the day. This live document recorded chiefly at the Whiskey A Go-Go (along with bonus cuts not included on the original vinyl release) shows the influence of the L.A. scene as Rich gets good and funky with his kicking band. Putting young sax blower Richie Cole in the spotlight worked in generating a younger audience as Rich, now in his fifties, stayed in the spotlight while other jazzers faded. A couple of Doors covers ("Hello I Love You" and "Soul Kitchen") were tailor made for the time and place, and their big band makeover fit the bombastic treatments the cocktail set demanded. This was Playboy mansion swing and Rich was on top of the world. Funny thing is, that for all it's foibles Buddy & Soul has worn well with time sounds pretty darn fine today.

© 2000 - John Sekerka