I am a fairly new fan to Dave Weckl (mostly started listening because of Brandon Fields) and I had a quick question. His "The Zone" album, are the songs arranged differently or are they just the same studio versions as before? And how good is the instructional DVD that comes with it? Thanks in advance (:

I just ordered "Rhythm of the Soul" and "Transition", so I can't wait to hear those! As of now, "Synergy" is my favourite. Gotta love "Panda's Dream"! I've always loved electric guitar in jazz, and Brandon Fields has a tight solo in that one.

keikofan89 . . .

"The Zone" is a compilation from three of Dave Weckl's albums, "Rhythm of the Soul," "Synergy" and "Transition." The arrangements are the same as on the individual releases. As for the included DVD, this is Weckl's demo promoting a whole series of videos featuring him teaching drum techniques, exercises, etc.

The Weckl Band's latest release, "Perpetual Motion," is very good. I might add that it is apparently the last release with Brandon Fields on saxophone. Brandon left the band after most of their recent tour. And apparently the band had to bring in saxophonist Gary Meek (soprano, alto and tenor) to fulfill any remaining 2002 and some 2003 tour dates. Meek is also a highly respected musician, but I do not believe that he will be a permanent part of this band's personel.

I was disappointed to hear this development. I felt Brandon had really found a niche with this band that could do nothing more than enhance the attention he has always deserved to a wider degree as a truly great musician.

Brandon left the band? How sad... hopefully that means he'll start to do some more solo projects. One can only hope...

Thanks for the info! I've never heard of Gary Meek, but hopefully he'll sound good with the band

Gary Meek is also the featured saxophonist on Jeff Lorber's new "Philly Style".

The Zone has some great music and great sax by Brandon Fields. If you love guitar I’d also like to highlight that on that compilation there are two fine guitarist: Buzz Feiten and Frank Gambale. Gambale, most known for his work with Chick Corea’s Elektric Band. Buzz Feiten one of the most over looked in the world of jazz/rock guitar. He’s been around forever and has played with everybody. He had a band in the 70’s called Full Moon, they had a self-titled album of just outstanding jazz-rock. Very smooth yet very electric. I’ve just started noticing the original Full Moon studio album appearing for sale as a cd along with a new Full Moon Live recording from around 1982.

PS - Brandon Fields is apart of a Buzz Feiten 2002 release titled "Buzz Feiten & The New Full Moon". I currently have this one on order and will report when it arrives.