A review for 2 Greg's CDs on air in the next few days on
RADIOVINILEMANIA in Italy

http://www.vinilemania.net/vGREGCHAKO.htm

Ciao ciao Pietro


courtesy: http://www.jazzreview.com


Featured Artist: Greg Chako


CD Title: Integration I & II

Year: 2001

Record Label: Chako Productions

Style: Contemporary Jazz

Musicians: Greg Chako-electric & acoustic guitars, Steve Thorton-
percussion, Reggie Perera-didjeridu, Edmond Branson-drums, Don Gomes-
piano, vocals, Brian Hill-trombone, Christy Smith-bass, Otrie Barret
Jr.-sax, Mei Sheum-piano, Greg Lyons-sax, Brian Hill-trombones;

Review: Its true what is said about people that face adversity head
on and overcome all obstacles put in front them; they come out of
the other side stronger and with more conviction about their lives
than ever before. Greg Chako, jazz guitarist and composer, is one of
those special people. For a guitar player to have carpal tunnel
syndrome is comparable to a singer losing their voice, it's a fate
worse than death. Chako actually stopped playing for a time then
regrouped and moved to Singapore, healed his wounds, and began
playing again. He found he could only use his thumb to play but
realized very quickly that he liked the softer sounds using his
thumb opposed to all of his fingers much better, so he stayed with
it. What was once a disability instantly became a new found ability;
much to the pleasure of Chako and his audience.

"Integration I & II" is the culmination of many studio hours,
tremendous discipline, concentration, and the ability to employ all
musical strengths in every composition. Chako says
that "Integration" has a multi-purpose meaning. In terms of relating
on a human level it refers to the four aspects of our being; spirit,
emotion, intellect, and body. On a level concerning the music it's
relating to the diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds found in
Chako's band. When was the last time you heard, if ever, the
didgeridoo used in a contemporary jazz setting? I can't say I ever
have. I found it very complimentary, and it gives the music a
distinctness and world feel to it without it taking anything away.
Instead of dismantling the essence and core of a composition it
enhances it. These two recordings are a jazz mosaic painted with the
very best of cultural, ethnic, and musical sensibilities. That
striking combination provides a sumptuousness and extensiveness in
the music that is rarely found in any genre.


Whether it's the Be Bop of "Funky Monkey" or the gentle acoustic
flow of "Smooth Ride" ala Joe Pass, this collection of songs has
something for everyone's taste. Every jazz discipline, or parts
thereof, is given an acknowledgement. Chako is up to the task on the
electric or acoustic six-string, allowing the necessary elasticity
for each song to build upon itself and congeal. After over 130
minutes of a trip around the jazz galaxy, I think it's safe to say
that Greg Chako and his magnificent band are one of the world's best
kept secrets. The word is now out; don't hesitate in seeking out
this essential jazz experience.


Reviewed by: Keith 'MuzikMan' Hannaleck