Search - Yellowjackets In Concert: Ohne Filter on DVD

The 'Jackets In Their Prime

Chicago Music Fan | Chicago, IL United States | 09/06/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"When I saw that this DVD was recently released, I immediately ordered it from Amazon.com, and I was not disappointed when I received and watched it! This performance is from a 1994 appearance on the German music show "Ohne Filter", which focused on less mainstream jazz, soul, blues and funk acts of the time. All of the songs performed by the 'Jackets were from the distinct GRP Records era of the early 90's, when Bob Mintzer took over saxophone duties from Marc Russo. For my tastes, I have equal love for almost all of the 'Jackets albums after the Rickey Lawson era (including the current period with Marcus Baylor), but the period when this performance was recorded has a special place for me because it was when I first discovered the band. So it would have been hard to get less than 5-stars anyway! (Disclaimer: I love Rickey Lawson's drumming ability and do not wish to imply that his "era" was not a good one, but the band's song-writing style changed dramatically after he left - for the better to me, not so much better for others, but that's another subject!)

Most of the songs were from the Greenhouse/Like A River/Run For Your Life albums, except "One Music", which is actually a song from Bob Mintzer's album of the same name from 1994 or so that the other YJ members took part in. All songs were performed with the usual skilled musicianship, with additional subtle changes and extended solo sections that distinguished them from the album versions. Video quality was good, audio was top-notch (with an additional 5.1 surround mix included) and brought out the best of these master musicians. All in all, it was an enjoyable show to watch and hear!

If you are a fan of the Yellowjackets, specifically the early-mid '90's era, you will thouroughly enjoy this DVD, especially watching the departed drum-master, Will Kennedy, doing his thing in his own special way. I would also recommend Bob Minzer's "One Music" CD mentioned above - it's basically a YJ's album from the same period. Enjoy!"

The Jackets at their best!

Grillman | Mass. USA | 01/23/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This dvd is just a superb example of why the band is still going after 25 years. Great musical compositions played with skill, passion, and intensity. What can I say, if you're a Yellowjackets fan this is a must own DVD.I still can't understand why Will Kennedy left the band. The new drummer Marcus Baylor is a fine musician, but Will was such a big part of the "SOUND" of the yellowjackets. The only down side is the DVD is way too short at about one hour long. Still I highy recommend it for the awesome audio and video quality."