Chick Corea’s Elektric Band Final Performance Features John Patitucci at Tokyo Jazz

The Chick Corea Elektric Band’s final performance at the Tokyo Jazz Festival captures a group that never lost its edge. From the first notes of “Charged Particles” into the relentless push of “Got A Match?” the band is in top form.

John Patitucci is laying the foundation the whole time, playing a 6 string Yamaha semi hollow electric bass through an Aguilar rig. His tone is full and articulate, cutting through the mix while still sitting deep in the pocket. He moves between supportive lines and rapid fire runs that match the intensity around him.  This is fast paced progressive jazz at its best. Dave Weckl and Frank Gambale keep the energy high while Eric Marienthal adds color. At the center, Chick drives it all with that unmistakable sense of motion and control.

A final performance, but nothing about it sounds like a farewell. It feels like a band still pushing forward.