The Yellowjackets | Timeline

The Yellowjackets | Timeline
by Brent Faulkner

Veteran fusion jazz group Yellowjackets return with their newest effort, Timeline. On Timeline, Yellowjackets sound as if they have not missed a beat, adding yet another gem to their discography. A set of eleven cuts, there are no misses to mention, with each of the tracks exhibiting some special ‘magic.’ While Timeline may not be coined as being the group’s best effort – that would be their breakthrough and classic recordings – it certainly shows ‘the old guys’ still have their ‘mojo.’ Jazz enthusiasts shan’t be disappointed in the least by this effort.

Opener “Why Is It” possesses a crisp, ‘efficient’ sound about it, instantly hearkening back to the classic 1970s – 80s fusion sound. Russell Ferrante delivers a keyboard solo, not to mention solid alto saxophone work by Bob Minzter. Jimmy Haslip impresses on bass while William Kennedy buttresses the group with his fusion-helmed grooves. While it isn’t a revolutionary cut, “Why It Is” is a great opener nonetheless. “Tenacity” may be the stronger cut, cultivating ‘the modern fusion sound.’ Mintzer keeps it ‘hot’ with another great saxophone solo while Ferrante’s keyboard genius is indisputable.

“Rosemary” is the epitome of the post-fusion ballad, with its chief highlight being its cerebral harmonic progression. Ferrante serves as the driving force behind the deep harmonies, incorporating some nice pianistic ideas here. Title cut “Timeline” is a standout, opening with piano and scant percussive accompaniment. Soon, the bass chants ‘the head’ of the tune it its upper register, proceeded by Mintzer carrying the tune on the saxophone. Ornamented in an array of synths and pads from Ferrante and use of mixed meter, “Timeline” may be the valedictory moment from this effort; Lets not forget to mention the bluesy breakdown section instigated from the Ferrante towards the end!

“Magnolia” keeps up the momentum, while the stunning “A Single Step” allows soloists Ferrante and Mintzer to stretch out their creativity. With a groove incorporating the best of jazz, gospel and R&B, “A Single Step” is breathtaking and definitely amongst the top tracks of this effort. “Indivisible” finds more collaboration between saxophone and piano, while “Like Elvin’s” solo sections are killer, including an exceptional electric bass solo atop piano comping and a continual drum groove. “Like Elvin” continues in the mixed-meter vein, archetypical of the fusion/post-fusion styles of jazz.

“My Soliloquy” possesses a moodiness about it, portrayed in full by Mintzer’s beautiful, ‘vocal’ saxophone playing here. “Numerology” appears to be to be a ‘tone poem,’ as the angular harmonic scheme and neoteric soloing by Ferrante seem to paint a picture of the mystical ‘art.’ “I Do” closes the album solidly with another fusion-driven ballad. It is the balladry of Yellowjackets that make Timeline such a superb effort as it allows the band to showcase a brilliant vulnerability in their playing.

Essentially, Timeline is an enjoyable effort and a must-have for fans of the Yellowjackets. While the argument that ‘there is nothing new in jazz’ may rear its ugly head, Timeline exhibits a veteran group who are still trying to ‘push the envelope’ and are still performing at a high level together. Sure, the Yellowjackets’ peak may have passed, but they still have years and years of great jazz in their arsenal. The evidence? Timeline, ladies and gentlemen.

Brent Faulkner
The Urban Music Scene