#10 What It Is - Dave Weckl Band - by profyousion
Wednesday, February 4th, 2009PROFYOUSION’S VIDEO REVIEW dave-weckl
“What It Is” is a track by the Dave Weckl Band exemplifies what I like best about fusion. Maybe these cats hear music differently than us “ordinary” folks.
No intro, they jump right to a funky bass/drum groove. The bassline has an off kilter vamp like it’s behind the meter, producing a kind of jerky feel, which is also replicated by the drums. Laid on top is a throaty sax, along with subtle rhythm accents on synth.
#9 Cry - Chris Ballin - by profyousion
Wednesday, February 4th, 2009PROFYOUSION’S VIDEO REVIEW Cry
Chris Ballin’s vocals are often compared to Luther Vandross, although I don’t think so. Although Luther could sing, I never particularly cared for him. I think if a big cat can sing, they automatically say “Luther”, because it’s easy.
I like Chris. Think of a lower pitched Frankie Beverly, a smoother Bobby Womack, or more…a Christopher Williams. He’s got a slightly raspy quality to his voice lending that “special something” that makes anything he sings enjoyable.
Born in Nottingham, England,he began playing drums at the age of 8, joined his first band at 10, and has been a session musician singing background for a number of high profile acts over the years, including Incognito,ZZ TOP, Belinda Carlisle and Chaka Khan, Pink Floyd, Mark Morrison, M-People, Brand New Heavies, Desiree, Mica Paris and Tina Turner.
Combining the above chops with his ability to not only write, but phrase lyrics in unexpected ways, you can expect to be inwardly moved.
