John Scofield's 1986 release, Blue Matter, is a vibrant journey through the diverse landscapes of jazz fusion, soul jazz, and jazz funk. This album, released on Ryko/Rhino, showcases Scofield's virtuosic guitar work and his knack for blending genres seamlessly. With a runtime of 43 minutes, Blue Matter is a concise yet powerful exploration of musical expression.
The album opens with the title track, "Blue Matter," setting the tone with its infectious groove and intricate guitar work. Tracks like "Trim" and "Heaven Hill" highlight Scofield's ability to infuse traditional jazz with a modern edge, while "So You Say" and "Now She's Blonde" add a touch of soul and blues to the mix. "Make Me" and "The Nag" showcase the band's tight chemistry and improvisational skills, culminating in the reflective closer, "Time Marches On."
Blue Matter is a testament to John Scofield's innovative approach to jazz, making it a standout release in his discography and a must-listen for any fan of the genre.