Crate Digger’s Gold: Weather Report – Mr. Gone

This was the follow-up to the hugely successful “Heavy Weather.”  I remember when it came out and it was universally panned. I think it is highly underrated. Granted it is pop-jazz, but how is that a crime after Heavy Weather? I remember that this was considered a sell-out.  But if you listen to it now it is so much more significant than any of the light jazz that was all the rage in the 80’s.

This is jazz as imagined by Steely Dan.  I think it is fearless and I think it stands the test of time. Jaco Pastorius influence is all over this album.  He had a completely different vision for his instrument and for his genre.  Unfortunately he was insane – brilliantly insane.

I saw the tour that went with this album and it was amazing.  Weather Report is not light jazz – it is brave fusion.  Check it out and you will be satisfied.