Chester Thompson’s ‘Wake-Up Call’: A Jazz Fusion Odyssey for the Modern Era
Renowned percussionist Chester Thompson, celebrated for his work with Santana, Genesis, Frank Zappa, and Weather Report, is set to release his latest album, ‘Wake-Up Call,’ on January 31, 2024. This eagerly anticipated album, available for pre-order from ProgRock.com’s Essentials, marks Thompson’s third solo venture following 1991’s ‘A Joyful Noise’ and 2019’s ‘Steppin’’.
‘Wake-Up Call’ is a testament to Thompson’s mastery in jazz fusion and prog rock. The album is a blend of complex yet accessible arrangements, showcasing Thompson’s signature style that has made his career both remarkable and timeless. It features a stellar lineup of guest musicians, including his son Akil, Ronnie Vann, Caleb Quay, Brendan Harkin, Scheila Gonzalez, Jeff Coffin, and Gary Hedden, with fellow percussionist Walter Rodriguez being the only new collaborator.
The genesis of ‘Wake-Up Call’ is as intriguing as its music. During the Covid lockdown, a casual conversation with bassist Robert “Peewee” Hill and pianist Michiko Hill led to an innovative remote collaboration. Thompson laid down a drum track and sent it to the Hills, sparking a creative process that resulted in the album’s nine tracks, including standouts like ‘Hide and Seek’ and ‘Sunrise’.
What sets ‘Wake-Up Call’ apart is its communal creative ethos. Thompson, stepping back from the role of a traditional music director, allowed each collaborator to freely express themselves. This approach has resulted in an album focused more on melodies and harmonies than on showcasing drums. Remarkably, all parts were recorded in the artists’ home studios, a first for Thompson in terms of recording all his drum tracks at home.
‘Wake-Up Call’ is not just a jazz fusion album; it’s a journey through various musical landscapes, appealing to both jazz aficionados and rock enthusiasts. Thompson’s rich history of working with iconic artists across genres shines through in this album, making it a must-have for serious music fans and collectors.
‘Wake-Up Call’ is available in multiple formats to suit every listener’s preference. Fans can choose between a 16-bit or 24-bit digital download, CD, and vinyl. The album can be pre-ordered from ProgRock.com’s Essentials, Burning Shed, and Bandcamp page.
Chester Thompson’s ‘Wake-Up Call’ is more than just an album; it’s a celebration of musical collaboration and innovation. Its release is not just a wake-up call for the jazz fusion and prog rock world but a beacon of creativity and communal spirit in modern music-making.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
