Published on Dec 18, 2019
Jack Bruce was a legendary performer — an amazing bass player and a great vocalist. His claim to fame was being a member of Cream, considered to be the first super-group in the history of rock. Alongside Eric Clapton and Ginger Baker, Bruce made history. He never reached the same heights again, but he managed to stay a working artist with nearly twenty releases to his name. Jack Bruce passed away back in 2014 at 71 years of age.
What we have here is a tribute concert for a departed artist who was very prolific and influential. The artists included here are people who worked with Bruce at one point of his career. Also, there are plenty of newer artists who were influenced by Bruce’s playing, singing, or songwriting. It’s a great show with many different performers taking on Bruce’s songs. What makes it really interesting is that Bruce didn’t always stay with the same style of music; therefore, the songs range from rock to jazz, to blues, and even pop.
This concert took place in London back in 2015 on the first anniversary of Bruce’s passing. This fact made it come across more personal and more spiritual. The love for Jack is very visible here. This release includes both CD and DVD, so you can choose to listen or watch, or simply do both.
Some of the performers include Ginger Baker (now also sadly deceased), Phil Manzanera of Roxy Music, Uli Jon Roth, Vernon Reid of Living Colour, Mark King of Level 42, Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull, and Joss Stone. Also, Jack’s children who are musicians in their own right make a special appearance as well. It is a very special performance that is done for all right reasons.
As much as I prefer to watch old footage of Jack Bruce himself, this really captures the spirit of who he was. It is also a good sign that his music will continue to live on through many of these artists. Jack Bruce gets a very meaningful tribute here.