Bob James David Sanborn – Double vision (1986 reedition 2019 – LP – ENG review)

Jazz
Bob James David Sanborn

Vinyl is in fashion in the USA, and so are CDs; we talk about them regularly. For this first article concerning this illustrious jazz album, I’ve chosen to tell you about this album that was released in both versions at the time and boasts a high-quality hi-fi sound. Studio sound enthusiasts will naturally prefer the CD.
“Double Vision” is the album where, in addition to the two illustrious, undisputed musicians who have been true cornerstones of various jazz styles from the 80s to the present day, we also find the late Al Jarreau. This album is practically a document of a happy and prolific era.
So, for the occasion, I revisited this album that hasn’t aged a bit. Why? Because simply put, the immensely talented composer and keyboardist Bob James skillfully manipulated sounds to make this album timeless. David Sanborn, consistently excellent and truly sublime on this project, brought all of his artistry while seamlessly blending with Bob James, and vice versa.
There are few albums that withstand the test of time without showing any signs of aging, and this is a perfect example. Not to mention the evergreen Marcus Miller’s involvement, who is also utterly captivating on this album. This is where the allure of experiencing this album in vinyl format lies – for the richer bass tones and the saxophone’s resonant depth of Sanborn’s sound, all of which come together wonderfully in this record format.
No need to introduce the drummer you all know, Steve Gadd, in his prime. Truly, this album is a delight on all levels. Those who, like me, looped this album upon its release won’t be able to resist humming the tunes that have become standards over time. In 2022, “Double Vision” embarked on a tour again. I invite you to read this article, “The Night Was Magic!” on The Weekender, available here.
I’ll return from time to time to talk to you about a jazz album on vinyl. If you’re a Hi-Fi enthusiast and don’t yet own a turntable, here are Bayou Blue Radio’s recommendations:

  1. Technics SL 1200MK7, for its exceptional sound reproduction, reliability, and durability.
  2. Ortofon Concorde MKII Mix Single, for its precision in vinyl playback.

And, to tell you the truth, we’re contemplating a vinyl-focused show in the upcoming version of Bayou Blue Radio on FM.

Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News

PARIS-MOVE, August 7th 2023

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Double Vision – Vinyl version is available here

Bob James’s website 

David Sandborn’s website

Marcus Miller’s website 

Steve Gadd’s website