For the last year or so, the jazz fans have been blessed with the reunion of the original lineup of the Chick Corea Elektric Band. Although the group never officially broke up or seized to tour and record, it was only last year, in the summer, when John Patitucci rejoined the band. This year they are coming to my hometown of Skopje, where audiences already are warming up for the event. Luckily for us over here, the Skopje Jazz Festival has a huge reputation in the region, so this will be the fourth time we’ll see Corea live. Last time he was here with Stanley Clarke and Lenny White, and this time he’s coming with Patitucci and Dave Weckl. That’s what I call a treat! Of course, we mustn't forget Frank Gambale on guitar and Eric Marienthal on saxophone, who are one of the best on their respected instruments.
Chick Corea Elektric Band is a jazz fusion band, led by pianist Chick Corea. Following the demise of Return to Forever, Corea established the musical ensemble in 1986. They recorded six studio albums between 1987 and 1993, reuniting again in 2004 for “To the Stars,” which is stylistically close to the avant-garde and post-bop on “Inside Out.” The band is popular for the masterful musicianship of the members, complex rhythmic and harmonic compositions and exceptional interplay. Dave Weckl made it to the legends through his work with the group, as well as the other musicians who have participated in the groups of the already established keyboard guru, Chick Corea. Other musicians who have been a part of this legendary ensemble include Victor Wooten, Scott Henderson, Carlos Rios, Gary Novak, Mike Miller, Jimmy Earl, and others.
