Eric Marienthal is the best improviser on that stage. No question. If you have heard one recent Jeff Lorber solo you have heard them all. If you want to hear Jeff Lorber at his best go back the Soft Space or Wizard Island days. Listen to Jeff's intro to Terry's Lament. Those days are gone unfortunately.
I know what you mean about Lorber today versus back in the Wizard Island days. His solos back then were really amazing, innovative and so very original. His solos today are kind of samey-samey, but I think it’s just because I truly believe he has said everything musically he can possibly say in one lifetime. I also think he’s simply exhausted and burned out. He looks so tired. I honestly don’t know how he’s done what he’s done all these years. A truly original voice in jazz - a field where it’s practically impossible to find your own uniquely identifiable voice. I don’t know Jeff personally, but my take on him is that he’s “all done” with playing live - but I could be wrong. I’ve always been a huge fan of Jeff ever since Wizard Island. What a talent.
It's really crazy to think how musician can evolve their personal musical preference from playing in a band like Judas Priest, Danger Danger to this fusion gem masterpiece. wow!
