Renegade Creation at the Blue Note Tokyo

Hey friends ~

Last night at the Blue Note Club (Tokyo) Josh and I checked out Renegade Creation, featuring Robben Ford, Michael Landau, Jimmy Haslip and my old neighbor, Gary Novak.  This was just about the best live music experience I’ve had.  Everything that is good about music was presented in one concert.  Blues,  soul, dynamics, usage of space,  creativity, R&B, magic, jazz,  inspiration, positivity, chops, rock, chemistry, ensemble playing, funk, listening..I can keep going.  Just got the record.  Brilliant.

Robben is a gracious new friend who I’ve had the pleasure of playing with. His phrasing is so lyrical and intentional. His voice is a fine tuned instrument that soothes the soul.  He combines blues, Jazz, rock and R&B guitar styles effortlessly. The command he has over his instrument floors me.

Gary Novak is simply world class. There’s no one better. He’s like a metronome oiled with chicken grease. I learned allot from him when we were neighbors, and not merely about drumming..try keyboards, bass and guitar!

Mike Landau is Jimi Hendrix reincarnate, add a landscape of gorgeous effects and textures, yet his sound comes from his hands ultimately.  A great fella as well.

Jimmy Haslip is a bass machine that won’t budge.  When in the support role, he’s exactly that, steady, simple and present. On his solos, take a hold of something, he just about knocked me over with his conviction and power.

I believe they’re touring on the East Coast of the US in November. Experience Renegade Creation.

Peace and Blessings,

Yogi