CD Review
Jack Casady
Dream Factor
Eagle Records ER20008-2
by Putnay Thomas
Review date: October 2004
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This is the first CD bassist Jack Casady has recorded under his own name.
It’s a bit hard to categorize his style of music on this CD. That’s because
he uses a variety of vocalists, instrumentalists, and songwriters. It was
probably Mr. Casady’s intention to not put his music into a particular genre
and that’s how Dream Factor comes across. Although not immediately
recognizable, some of the songs are truly memorable.
Of the eleven songs on Dream Factor, Casady wrote or co-wrote all but one
song. It’s not hard to evoke the thoughts of Little Feat because Paul
Barrere takes the vocal and slide guitar parts on “Paradise” and “Listen To
The Wind”. On “Dead Letter Box”, Casady and Barrere write some killer
lyrics that any bluesman would be proud of. Even if Casady (who doesn’t sing
and rarely speaks in concert) recited the words, “Dead Letter Box” would be
a great song.
Although Casady’s bass work has been stellar with Jefferson Airplane and Hot
Tuna, his playing never takes front and center except for the lone
instrumental track “Outside”. He really tears it up on bass and something he
calls “ Lead Versatone bass”. I’m not sure if it’s a different instrument or
just his style. Whatever he wants to call it doesn’t matter because his
playing makes you forget that Allman Brother Warren Haynes is trying to keep
up with Casady on this track. The interplay on this jazzy-rock cut is
astounding and the dynamics keep you on the edge of your seat. The sound is
reminiscent of the former Mahavisnu Orchestra. By the time this wild ride
ends you’re wishing it was longer or that there were 3 of 4 more like this
on the CD.
Casady also shows off his prowess on acoustic and electric guitar and
acoustic bass. Ivan Neville adds his soul-drenched voice to the mix. Jorma
Kaukonen, Casady’s guitar- playing partner in the Airplane and Hot Tuna only
appears on one track and definitely doesn’t “steal the show”. Having seen
acoustic Hot Tuna earlier this year, it’s apparent that they play together
beautifully and enjoy themselves. It’s the same way on this track and
throughout this CD that Casady is enjoying himself.
Casady has shown himself to be the perfect accompanist and team player. His
skill as a bass payer is unquestionable. This CD makes the casual listener
aware that Jack Casady is more versatile and talented than just as a
sideman.
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