James Blood Ulmer - Berlin 1981

This live album captures a pivotal performance by the avant-garde guitarist James Blood Ulmer, recorded in 1981 in Berlin. Featuring his electrifying band with Jamaaladeen Tacuma on bass and Ronald Shannon Jackson on drums, the performance showcases Ulmer's signature 'harmolodic' guitar style, blending blues, jazz, and funk with raw intensity. The recordings offer a raw and immediate glimpse into one of the most innovative guitarists of the era at the height of his powers.

While 'Berlin 1981' is a re-release of older material, it has been appreciated by critics and fans of experimental jazz and blues for preserving a significant live performance. The album is lauded for its energetic improvisation and Ulmer's distinctive guitar playing. It serves as an important document of his early influential work and the tight musical interplay within his band.

• Praise for James Blood Ulmer's unique guitar style and 'harmolodic' approach.

• Appreciation for the raw energy and improvisational prowess of the live performance.

• Recognition of the album as a valuable archival release for fans of experimental jazz and blues.

Google audience: Specific Google user reviews for this particular archival release are scarce, but fans generally acknowledge Ulmer's significant contribution to avant-garde jazz and blues guitar. His innovative sound and energetic live performances are consistently highlighted.

James Blood Ulmer's distinctive 'harmolodic' guitar style, which he developed with Ornette Coleman, involves a unique approach to rhythm and harmony, often eschewing traditional chord structures in favor of melodic and rhythmic freedom.