‘Up From The Skies’ by Electric Lady Big Band
This find is a pure delight. ‘Up From The Skies’ (2021) is the second release by Electric Lady Big Band. It’s an exuberant reimagining of the psychedelic blues of Jimi Hendrix from the unique vantage point of a 16-piece big band. The spirit of Hendrix is ever present with the personality and vibrance of the band bursting through. Blaring, pounding, swinging.
The project formed in 2018 when bandleader/guitarist/vocalist and lifelong Hendrix fan Denny Ilett wanted to commemorate the 50th anniversary of ‘Electric Ladyland’. Comprised of uber-talented, world-class musicians, Electric Lady Big Band released their first compilation in September of that year. It was a high-spirited, joyous, and fiery tribute. Then their 2021 followup ‘Up From The Skies’ continued to build on the momentum of the first by digging deeper into Hendrix’s catalog.
These songs combined with the instrumentation of a big band is a perfect fit. In fact, Hendrix himself was interested in working with a big band. Shortly before his passing he had been discussing such a project with legendary arranger/composer Gil Evans. In 1974, Evans would produce an album of Hendrix compositions with an all-star big band and those arrangements would remain a part of his live sets until his passing in 1988.
Electric Lady Big Band is the newest successor to that tribute complete with scorching guitar, blazing brass, boisterous drums, smooth vocals, and a refreshing energy. The distinct reinterpretation of the songs on both releases is powerful, honest, and done with sense of genuine respect. It showcases the sometimes overlooked genius of Hendrix as a composer which is often upstaged by his well-established flashy guitar god image.
Both releases are a must have and available on Bandcamp:
→ ‘Electric Lady Big Band’ (2018)
→ ‘Up From The Skies’ (2021)
Cheers!
Stephen
Electric Lady Big Band (Website) → electricladybigband.co.uk
Denny Ilett (Bandcamp) → dennyilett.bandcamp.com
Denny Ilett (Instagram) → instagram.com/dennyilett
Denny Ilett (Website) → dennyilett.com
