Lifecycle-Yellowjackets

It's been fifteen years since the Yellowjackets featured a guitar player on one of their recordings. While the idea simmered for years, it didn't reach critical mass until jazz-fusion guitar virtuoso Mike Stern performed with the renowned jazz quartet at the 2007 Montreal Jazz Festival.

Six months later, the newly formed quintet convened in rural New York State to record their fusion of styles in the state-of-the-art, hi-res audio format. The result: Lifecycle, a hybrid stereo/multichannel SACD that pushes improvisational jazz to new realms of performance and technical excellence.

Seven of the ten tracks are quintet pieces featuring Stern and the Jackets. Sterns guitar processing creates a lush sonic palette which blends effectively with the Jackets traditional instrumentation. Stern has commented, rhythmically, these songs were a challenge for meI dont usually play in odd time signaturesbut Im always up for a challenge. While the techniques may have required focused determination, the end results sound effortless. Stern also contributed two songs to the album the syncopated and playful Double Nickel and the more somber Dreams Go.

The engineering and mix by Rich Breen provides a transparent soundstage that also envelops the listener in 5.1 surround. The stereo mix is also first-rate; however, the arrangements and performances truly come alive in surround sound (the preferred listening format). A standard resolution layer in stereo is also included for regular CD players. The mastering by Michael Bishop ensures a healthy dynamic range, so turn up the volume and immerse yourself in Lifecycle's diverse cross-section of sound and rhythm.

Release Date: May 20, 2008

SACD, Heads Up, Technical Rating A+