John Scofield - 1984 [2014] "Electric Outlet"

Guitarist John Scofield combines with Pete Levin on synthesizer to make this 1984 session both very electric and eclectic. With David Sanborn on alto, Ray Anderson on trombone, and Steve Jordan on drums adding acoustic voices to the mix, the results are as thought-provoking as Scofield's titles. The rock, funk, jazz, and techno elements proliferate and combine, putting populist and outside approaches in a new perspective. There are even touches of Ennio Morricone's film music in the wide-open spaces of "Best Western." While much fusion is about the easy mismatching of elements, Scofield manages to turn his different sources into distinctive and original music.

Guitarist John Scofield's music of the '80s (mostly recorded for Gramavision) blended together funk with post-bop improvising. Although not as timeless as much of his work of the '90s, there are always moments of interest on his many recordings. For Electric Outlet, Scofield performs eight originals (the best-known is "Pick Hits") with a notable quintet and also including altoist David Sanborn, trombonist Ray Anderson, Pete Levin on synthesizer and drummer Steve Jordan; there is no bassist, although the leader often plays basslines. Intriguing music.

John Scofield was an early favotite of mine from before he played with Miles. I picked up Shinola when it came out (looking for Steve Swallow stuff, actually). I really loved that. When he started playing with Miles, I was fortunate enough to see him a coulpe of times, and then later in solo form at a nice club. After that period, I have found his stuff 'hit or miss' ... but I was blown away by UberJam. However, Electric Outlet remains right at the top of my list of favorite Scofield work. It really lays out his style and preferences. Worth picking up!

This is a great Scofield disc. I like John's recent funk outings, but this disc from further back in his career really outlines his jazz playing in a more fusion-like setting.

Track listing:

All tracks by John Scofield

1. Just My Luck (5:21)
2. Big Break (5:15)
3. Best Western (5:41)
4. Pick Hits (6:03)
5. Filibuster (5:51)
6. Thanks Again (4:50)
7. King For A Day (2:28)
8. Phone Home (5:12)

Personnel:

John Scofield - electric guitar, bass
Peter Levin - synthesizers
David Sanborn - saxophone
Ray Anderson - trombone
Steve Jordan - drums