Jeff Buckley, "Mystery White Boy"
To learn more about Jeff Buckley, visit his record company site, and also visit this superb fan site, "Kingdom For A Kiss".
Read my review of Jeff's album "Grace" on another
Ben's Picks page.
Check out the video, "Live In Chicago" for even more insight into the reality of Jeff's talent, and the subtle brilliance of his band.
And finally, for the most stunning, definitive live Jeff Buckley performance ever, pick up the Japanese import CD single of "Last Goodbye" and listen to the live version of "Mojo Pin." I get goose bumps and a lump in my throat every single time.
Also getting a lot of spins on my CD player:
Tower of Power, "Soul Vaccination: Live"- 30th anniversary tour album of the funkiest, tightest soul-fullest band ever. Have they still got it?- ohh, yes.
Miles Davis, "Love Songs"- A collection of Miles' best ballads- a superb jazz album from the master. Nuff said.
It's hard to be objective about Jeff Buckley, but that's part of why I love him so much. His work injects new life to the singer-songwriter-guitarist-in-a-rock-band format that I thought had been done to death, until I heard him. He brings a message of passion and spiritual yearning to rock and roll, and a depth and range of expressive power un-matched in my experience. His music compels the listener to be totally involved- his haunting lyrics, his unbelievably expressive, passionate voice, his inventive guitar playing, relentless energy- you can't help but get swept away by it (or it drives you crazy - there is probably no in between). He was supported by an amazing band that enhanced and completed his visions with remarkable sensitivity, as this set of live recordings affirms. In an age of bland mega-bucks entertainment, I hunger for a musician that cares, that is passionate, that is committed. Jeff Buckley was all these, and he had the talent to back it up. Tragically lost to this world by drowning a few years ago, we should cherish every new opportunity to be inspired by this amazing artist.
Stevie Ray Vaughan, "Live At El Mocambo"
Live concert video from 1983. Again the key words here are total commitment, total involvement. Stevie gives it his all, and he takes you with him! I never thought I could watch or listen to this much blues, but I have watched this video many times and am always blown away! Every guitarist should witness the total focus and complete dedication that Stevie delivered night after night; and he did so with a fire, and yes, finesse that many a guitarist in any style could learn from. Also, I gain more and more respect for the backup band with every viewing. The way they support, complement and enhance Stevie's playing without ever being intrusive or overplaying, is a rare gift.
