THE DEAD KENNY G'S

Bewildered Herd

2010-08-23

Between the band name and the line-up, I knew I was going to like this one. This is jazz with punk attitude. The Dead Kenny G's are a free-jazz Melvins, if you will. Formed in Seattle in 2004, this is Mike Dillon, Skerik, and Brad Houser's first release together, although all three band members have worked in the same bands at different times over the years (Garage A Trois, Billy Goat, Critters Buggin, Les Claypool's Flying Frog Brigade, etc.). Backed by strong percussion and bass, Skerik often uses electronic effects on his sax which lends many of the songs an aggressive character. Other times, Mike Dillon's vibes take the lead for more of a classic sound. All in all this is modern jazz that is well worth a listen. Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Jazz

  • reviewed 04/2006

    Joris Teepe's Gronigan Art Ensemble
    Jazz In Jazz Out

  • reviewed 03/2008

    Panthelion
    Life After 339

  • reviewed 09/2007

    THE DYNAMITES FEATURING CHARLES WALKER
    KABOOM

  • reviewed 04/2007

    MELODY GARDOT
    Worrisome Heart

  • reviewed 06/2010

    VARIOUS ARTISTS
    Next Stop...Soweto, Vol. 3: Giants, Ministers and Makers -- Jazz in South Aftrica 1963-1984

  • reviewed 06/2007

    VARIOUS ARTISTS
    John Pisano’s Guitar Night

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.