J. Kimo Williams takes us on a musical time-travel journey with “Rare 12 Sessions,” a collection of tracks that exude a funky vibe, evoking memories of 1970s television soundtracks. This album, featuring accomplished musicians such as Vinnie Colaiuta and Michael Brecker, delivers a powerful punch of brass, melodies, funky basslines, and driving percussion.
The story behind this project is as fascinating as the music itself. Kimo Williams, a Berklee College of Music alum, embarked on this endeavor in 2001 as a follow-up to his debut album, “War Stories,” which was inspired by his experiences serving in Vietnam. During those War Stories sessions, a connection was forged with Vinnie Colaiuta, who understood the profound emotional depth behind Kimo’s music. This connection led to the creation of “Rare 12 Sessions.”
Vinnie Colaiuta, a remarkable drummer, lent his exceptional talent to this project. He joined Kimo in his home studio in Chicago and recorded an impressive 21 songs over a single weekend. His ability to sight-read and play to Kimo’s midi renditions with a click track showcased the level of commitment and connection that drove this project.
Michael Brecker, another musical luminary, also became a part of this venture, further enriching the music. Kimo reconnected with former Berklee alums and gathered a talented ensemble that included Mike Stern, Victor Bailey, Kenwood Dennard, Jeff Richman, and Jim Odgren. These musicians lent their voices to create a captivating musical landscape.
What sets “Rare 12 Sessions” apart is the unique approach to recording. Kimo Williams opted for individual instrumental “tracking” sessions, allowing him to harness the nuances and sonorities that he envisioned but couldn’t achieve in earlier projects due to limitations in audio technology.
Kimo Williams’ musical journey and evolution are deeply rooted in his Berklee experience, where he honed his skills as a composer. His unique harmonic technique, known as Diagonal Harmony, has played a pivotal role in shaping his compositions. Over the years, he has used his ensemble, “Kimotion,” to express his musical ideas, fusing jazz and classical elements.
With “Rare 12 Sessions,” Kimo Williams not only revisits his musical past but also takes us on a groovy adventure filled with nostalgic vibes and powerful, emotive compositions. It’s a testament to his commitment to the art of music and his willingness to push creative boundaries. His music is not just a collection of notes; it’s a means of emotional communication, and “Rare 12 Sessions” is an eloquent example of this philosophy.