Leon

This is the follow-up to 1981's much loved Rockin' You Eternally. While that effort had Ware engaged and willing to do rich and melodic work with no commercial consideration, Leon Ware more often than not seems to be overly concerned with making a big hit. Leon Ware was co-produced by Ware and the legendary Marty Paich. Although Paich had everyone from young Ella Fitzgerald to Boz Scaggs on his resumé, there wasn't much he could do with Ware. Paich also arranged the rhythm here, which is undoubtedly Ware's forte. That's not to say Leon Ware is a dismal failure – far from it. The first track "Slippin' Away" is Ware's best track here but it's reminiscent of a so-so track from Earth, Wind & Fire's Faces. In fact, Leon Ware employs some of the same players and writers from that effort…

Leon and Mary Russell's debut album together Wedding Album was a personal and musical triumph for everyone involved. So it seemed obvious that a fairly emmediate follow up album was in order and they delivered one. At the very same time this is a completely different musical experience…

Leon Thomas & Oliver Nelson - In Berlin (1970) {RCA Victor 09026638772 rel 2002}
XLD rip (secure mode) | FLAC (tracks)+CUE+LOG -> 314 Mb | MP3 @320 -> 110 Mb | Artwork | 5% repair rar
© 1970, 2002 Flying Dutchman / Bluebird / RCA Victor / BMG | 09026638772
Jazz / Post Bop / Afro-Cuban Jazz / Soul Jazz

"Leon Thomas in Berlin" is an excellent example of the work of this almost forgotten vocalist. Thomas was very much a maverick in terms of his singing style, his use of the yodel and other effects turned his voice very much into another frontline musical instrument in much the same manner as scat was used by earlier singers . The lasting impression given by this is of a highly Afro - American form of the idiom which was much in fashion in the late 60's and early 70's. In many ways it is a great pity that this vibrant music has fallen so far from grace to be replaced by the mainstream conservatism that is so omni-present in a great deal of the performances which define Jazz at the present time.

Leon's romantic collaboration with his new wife Mary continued on into the recording studio, with her voice helping him to go Top 40 with his first Paradise LP…