The Yellowjackets can still count themselves among one of the most adventurous quartets in contemporary jazz. With Altered State they wanted to take less obvious paths. Despite the complex rhythms, however, the Yellowjackets cannot separate themselves from their unique sound, the more than twenty years of collaboration irrevocably leaves a bold mark on their playing. That does not mean that Altered
… State has become a standard CD. On the contrary, the arch remains taut across the board. The influence of Joe Zawinul is evident in Russell Ferrante's playing, especially on March Majestic, which starts with a reggae beat and then ends in rhythm & blues. The Hope with vocals by Jean Baylor and The Perry Sisters sounds like contemporary gospel according to the gospel of the Yellowjackets. Altered State is yet another gem that can be added to the Yellowjackets huge treasure chest. (AD)more