Scott Kinsey: Luniwaz Live

Fans of Weather Report or the Zawinul Syndicate or for that matter most any of Joe Zawinul's work, will likely appreciate this album led by keyboardist Scott Kinsey. The Austrian keyboardist Zawinul, along with legendary saxophonist Wayne Shorter, were the founders of Weather Report. Kinsey became a prodigy of Zawinul and has done more than just keep the music alive. First came (We Speak Luniwaz:The Music of Joe Zawinul, Whirlwind Recordings, 2019). That studio album affirmed not only Kinsey's affinity for all things Zawinul, it served as a celebration and tribute to his work.

Fast forward to 2023 and we find Kinsey even more fluent in Zawinul on this live performance recorded at the Jazz Dock in Prague, Czechoslovakia. Seven Zawinul compositions, as well as two Shorter compositions, originals from Kinsey, and more, make up this bold effort. Like Kinsey, drummer Gergo Borlai and electric bassist Hadrien Feraud also grew up revering the sound of Weather Report. They were on board in 2019 and bring their abundant skill sets and energy to this live recording. One could go on at length about the resumes of both Borlai and Feraud. Safe to say that they are both among the upper echelon of fusion rhythm sections. Alto saxophonist Patrick Bartley Jr was sensational. He did not attempt to fill Shorter's shoes. He instead brought his own magic. Bartley's solos were intriguing and demanded attention. Bartley Jr. was an integral part of the interplay and improvisational conversations. As much as there is a distinct Zawinul aura, Kinsey's creative musicianship stretches the boundaries and pushes the sound forward. Kinsey also had percussionist RobertThomas Jr. on a couple of tunes. Yes, the same Thomas that played with Weather Report at one point. Guitarist Pedro Martins and vocalist Meredith Salimbeni completed a well rounded cast.

This is more than simply playing the songs. More than just notes on a piece of paper. What makes it work, indeed what makes it special, is the feel for and reverence of the music. Zawinul put Kinsey on a pathway. A pathway that continues to bear fruit. This music was always about improvisation. Kinsey, Borlai, Feraud and Bartley Jr. have deep and often clever conversations within their interplay. Much thought was put into the song selection and making it all connect and flow.

Much to the delight of the crowd at the Jazz Dock, the tension and energy that goes with this music had built up over time. The band exploded with pure exhilaration and shared enthusiasm. They managed to respect the past while being in the moment.