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LP
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INFINITA 001LP
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Olindo Records launch sister label Música Infinita, with its inaugural release, a reissue of The Message by Gerry Weil -- a forgotten cornerstone of Venezuelan jazz, originally released in 1971 and greatly influenced by Bitches Brew-era Miles, Hendrix, Tower of Power and fusion of jazz and rock. The Message is packed with raw funk grooves, big band horns, and Gerry's gravelly Waitsian vocals. Gerry Weil decided to emulate Miles in 1971, but on Caribbean soil, gathering a dream team of 15 Venezuelan musicians to record an avant-garde album. The album opens with "The Joy Within Yourself", showcasing Gerry's dexterous organ playing within seconds, accompanied by stunning horn arrangements, a bluesy vocal by Weil himself and a killer electric guitar solo by Vinicio Ludovic. Continuing with "The Bull's Problem", the LP settles into a jazz funk groove with a nasty Rhodes and bass combination alongside a heavy drums and congas exchange between Alberto Naranjo and Freddy Roldán. Side A closes with title track "The Message", a sort of funky anthem or mantra that describes Gerry Weil's attitude towards life. On side B, "Johnny's Bag" kicks off proceedings on a spiritual tone. This time Gerry's on acoustic piano, accompanied yet again by a beautiful, but equally powerful horn section featuring a who's who of Venezuelan jazzmen, such as Benjamin Brea (alto), Victor Cuica (tenor), Rodrigo Barboza (trombone), and Luis Arias (trumpet). "What Is A Man" begins with a vocal duo between Vinicio Ludovic and Gerry before settling into a funky groove underpinned by Michael Berti's booming bassline. The album closes with "Little Man", a meditative, yet grooving piece that could easily be found on any of the best Blue Note albums from that same time period. Still active at the age of 81, Gerry is a living legend and a true testament to perseverance through music. Brand new artwork and an extensive interview with Gerry. Remastered by Frank Merritt at The Carvery. Edition of 500.
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