Twentyfive is the essential recording/release of a band that has spanned the last quarter of a century with an eclectic mix of jazz, funk and R&B.  The Yellowjackets burst on the scene back in 1981 with their self-titled debut hit release and haven’t looked back since.  This one includes a concert DVD of nine tunes as well as interviews and behind the scenes features.  Recorded on their 2005 European tour, the CD was taped at the New Morning concert hall in Paris before an appreciative crowd.

The band is in great form throughout.  Russell Ferrante’s “Revelation”starts the set and gets the crowd into it early.  Bob Mintzer’s tenor soars on the chorus and leads to some great chops by Ferrante.  Jimmy Haslip walks his bass before giving way to Mintzer’s familiar refrain once more. It’s easy to see why guys went all the way back to 1996 to pull this crowd favorite from their Shades release.  The haunting “Geraldine” slows the pace down somewhat and plays on the soul of Haslip’s tenor.  You are also fortunate to be able to see this one because it’s included with the DVD.  “Jacketown”from the 1994 release Run For Your Life is a showcase for Haslip, and he doesn’t disappoint.  This original member keeps the bass going with invigorating riffs and runs that have made him a favorite for years.

The guys continue the march through time with “Sea Folk” from the 2003 release Time Squared.  Ferrante’s piano plays softly off Mintzer’s sax as if they’re stair-stepping with each other’s instruments.  This one showcases Mintzer and shows the range and virtuosity of the artist.  He hands off to Haslip once more who he picks up right where he left off.  “Free Day” completes the time travel as the band gets into the hit from last year’s Altered States disc.  There’s great work from the entire band as this one’s played tight and close to the cuff.  Their entrances and exits into phrases and passages are extraordinary.

Classic hits and title tracks “My Old School” and “Greenhouse” are both here and on the DVD.  The set closes with Mintzer’s 1994 classic “RunFerYerLife.” 

The disc is a must for any “jacket” fan and should be an important part of any jazz fan’s collection.  It’s a great look at a band in their prime after twenty-five years, and I think they could go another twenty-five years at this rate.  The DVD is a great addition and contains six songs not on the CD. Be sure to check it out today.

- Harvey Cline