I’ve discovered that I have a time machine right here on my laptop. You might know it by it’s other name: Youtube.
I didn’t intend to travel in the time machine tonight. But someone had posted a short video of a Japanese a cappella group doing a Steely Dan cover…and someone else had posted in the comments a link to a Russian band that covers the band Chicago.
Well…! Chicago was huge when I was in high school. In fact, the one and only rock concert I ever attended was the very first “Day on the Green” in the Oakland Coliseum with Chicago and the Beach Boys (and yes, I realize that I am totally dating myself). 🙂
After revisiting a number of Chicago’s hits, I saw that this amazing band, Leonid & Friends, also covers Blood, Sweat & Tears — my absolute all-time favorite band growing up. (Did I ever mention that throughout high school I played saxophone in jazz bands?)
After listening to a few of the covers, I simply had go to the source and find some real Blood, Sweat & Tears recordings. And, oh my! I hadn’t listened to those tunes in I don’t even know how many years, but they are just as powerful and dynamic and satisfying to me as ever!
And I suddenly understood the important part these bands (Chicago; Blood, Sweat & Tears; Earth, Wind & Fire; Tower of Power; etc) — with their jazzy harmonies, intricate rhythms, perfect intonation, and tight ensemble — played in establishing my musical foundation.
To see what I mean, check out Blood, Sweat & Tears’ recording of God Bless the Child. The level of musicianship is simply incredible.
How fascinating to be able to travel back in time and — through music — reconnect with my younger self.