Sketches of MD

Kenny Garrett is a superb alto sax-player. This recording shows a comfortable Kenny playing this "funky-jazz" style, although I believe that he has recorded before better works. I was lucky to attend yesterday Kenny's concert in Sala Clamores Jazz (Madrid- Spain). The concert was excellent, although this recording in only fairly good.

A GOOD FEELING CD FROM KENNY GARRETT AND THE GROUP.HAPPY SOUNDS FROM ALL THE PLAYERS.5STARS ALL THE WAY.

I've been a fan of Kenny Garrett's since 1997 when I first purchased "Songbook" and since then he has remained my favorite saxophonist. I play sax myself and have been a musician for the majority of my life. Ever since I learned about Kenny Garret, he has been a huge inspiration for me.

This album captures the high energy that he is notorious for when you see him live. From the very first note he plays he goes non stop and always manages to get the crowd involved and to leave with a huge smile on their face. His stamina and ability to create musical artwork on the fly is absolutely amazing.

Sketches of MD and Wayne's Thang would have to be my favorite tracks if I am forced to choose. Wayne's Thang is just straight up funk which I love and Kenny's use of effects on his sax just adds to the flavor of the tune. Pharoah Sanders and Kenny obviously have a deep friendship and this is reflected in their musical conversations. I love everything Kenny does, but this album will be hard to top! However, I have no doubt Kenny will find a way. Thanks Kenny... you make me never want to stop listening, learning and playing!!!

I was somewhat surprised at the repetition of the groove, licks, you name it. Even on Happy People, the only real tune on this recording; I mean, how many times can you end the piece? I have several of Garrett's recordings, both solo, and when he was with Miles, so I know how good he is, but being into jazz, and not funk-jazz (excuse my labelling; I know Miles did it, but there was usually so much more going on with him) I was just a bit let down. Some other reviewer liked the drummer. hmm. Boring. This ain't Elvin here. Pharoah Sanders? Boring. Hey, I just saw Pat Metheny/Jack Dejohnette in Woodstock; now that was something! Now all the funkophiles can jump all over this review, but I am a practitioner (percussion), so I do know something about this music. Kenny Garrett has done way better before, although the audience really liked it. Speaking of Wayne Shorter, I witnessed his set at the Newport Jazz Fest- shocking!
A lesson in abstraction which had the entire crowd scratching their heads when it was over, as in-what just happened? And this guy is 70! His set is online somewhere; his group included Brian Blade, John Pattituci, and Danilo Perez.

"Sketches of MD" is among the best jazz releases of the year. Own it, love it. Imho, Mr Garrett is one of the finest and most influential alto sax masters (as well as artists in general) that have ever lived.