Bottom's Up

In 1989, shortly after his departure from jazz fusion supergroup Weather Report, Victor Bailey shocked the music world with the release of his debut solo record, Bottom's Up. As much as his previous work had gained him respect as one of the best bass guitarists ever, he had always maintained that he had a lot more to say than anyone knew. And he proved that on this record. With a stellar cast featuring the likes of Michael Brecker, Wayne Shorter,and Branford Marsalis on saxophones, Omar Hakim and Dennis Chambers on drums, Terence Blanchard on trumpet, and Wayne Krantz on guitar,you can just imagine what a special treat this music is. It also showcased for the first time his unique composing and arranging skills. It shows his complete mastery of modern electric jazz, without getting caught up in the complicated technical gymnastics many artists confuse with good music. But don't get it wrong,the guy has as much chops as anybody. Most importantly it contains some of the most incredible bass playing ever put down on any record, by anybody, in any genre. Upon it's release the New York Times dubbed Bailey "a bass player with gold plated credentials".