Djabe/Steve Hackett: Sipi benefit concert 2CD
2CD - GR-080
Djabe is the No1 Jazz/World fusion band of Hungary. In 2007 they organized a charity concert for their late percussionist Andras Sipos, as they call him, Sipi’s family. Their long time friend, the former Genesis guitar player helped out to fully pack the concert venue in Budapest. Steve was on stage more than two hours, and not only played in the Djabe tunes, but also has an own acoustic medley.
„A triumph homage”
„Djabe said farewell to András Sipos in a 4-hour monstrous concert. Several guest artists appeared, including actors and musicians, with the special guest, Steve Hackett, whom I have never before seen playing with such happiness. … they had never been better than on this night. I have never seen them playing so well, it was a fabulous show.
At the beginning the band was always joined by a different guest. The first in the row was Mihály Dresch on saxophone, who was followed by Said Tichiti, the singer and percussionist of Moroccan origin. The special guest appeared after them, who according to Attila Égerházi, upon hearing the news, offered that he would come to Budapest.
Steve contributed to the Djabe album titled ‘Sheafs are Dancing’ and he also played at the concert the group gave in London in 2004. He came on stage several times during the concert and he seemingly enjoyed making music. After playing all together, Steve stayed on stage alone and performed an acoustic medley. The block was closed by the wonderful Horizons.
World music, jazz, hard rock and metal elements were all present. Everybody added something to the production. Djabe was in its best form and Steve Hackett managed to blend into the band like an organic member, playing unusually freely. He apparently enjoyed every single moment. It was triumph homage, the musicians said goodbye to their always cheerful joker as he deserved it. ”
"One of the best fusion bands all over the world"
"What does Hungarian jazz sound like? Take smooth jazz played by seven guys who look like truck drivers and dump a couple of buckets of paprika on them. Add a little Eastern European folk sensibility, particularly that gypsy fiddle. A packed RIJF Big Tent ate it up."
"Friday night was a huge success - the weather was fine, and the crowds were ready! Folks jammed to a variety of great bands including Orquesta d'Soul, Djabe, and of course Big Bad Voodoo Daddy!"
"It's not hard to figure out why Djabe is the leading jazz-fusion band of Hungary. The group's music is filled with lush textures and appealing melodies. Group member Kovács Ferenc, who has worked with David Murray and Archie Shepp, is an excellent soloist on trumpet, flugelhorn, and violin."
"We all think that Djabe sounds great!"
"It is most beautiful music, an excellent production, and the music is superb."
"I love their sound and stage presentation."
"Djabe's music is very interesting, well played and well produced. Congratulations!"
"Their music is good, very good!"
Samples from the show:
Reflections of Thiérache
Doromb
Above the Skies
Distant Dance