Jack DeJohnette - Have You Heard

Review by Tinu Cleatus

Jack DeJohnette's album, Have You Heard, is a masterpiece of jazz fusion that showcases the drummer's virtuosity and versatility. The album features a stellar cast of musicians, including guitarist John Scofield, bassist Larry Grenadier, and keyboardist John Medeski, who all contribute to the album's rich and complex sound.

From the opening track, "Soulful Ballad," it is clear that DeJohnette is in top form. His drumming is precise and dynamic, driving the rhythm forward while leaving plenty of space for the other musicians to shine. The interplay between DeJohnette and Scofield on tracks like "Dirty Ground" and "In Movement" is particularly impressive, with both musicians pushing each other to new heights.

The album also features a number of beautiful ballads, such as "Blue" and "Ballad for Marion Brown," which showcase DeJohnette's sensitive side. On these tracks, his drumming is more restrained, providing a subtle but effective accompaniment to the melodic lines of the other musicians.

Summary by Tinu Cleatus

Have You Heard is a stunning achievement that demonstrates why Jack DeJohnette is considered one of the greatest drummers in jazz history. Whether you're a fan of fusion, straight-ahead jazz, or something in between, this album is sure to impress. Highly recommended.