Album Review: John Scofield - "Überjam Deux"

John Scofield
Überjam Deux
EmArcy

No fear. That’s what John Scofield displays when he digs into his 6-string on this funky collection of instrumentals. Oh yes, he’s imaginative and so rhythmically sly on this sequel to 2002’s Überjam. But it’s his willingness to chase slithering lines wherever they lead—even if he winds up fumbling a note here or there—that makes Scofield’s fretwork so compelling.

Guitarist Avi Bortnick was in Sco’s original Überjam lineup and once again he plays a pivotal role in these percolating tracks. On “Snake Dance,” Bortnick reveals his passion for afrobeat with chattering chord work and ostinatos, and when he and Scofield start messing with filter sweeps and backward effects, things get downright trippy. Some of the tunes—“Al Green Song,” for example—could veer into happy jazz in lesser hands. But just when you think a section might be getting a bit too chill, Scofield starts plucking back by the bridge saddles or bending notes with sassy, Roy Buchanan-approved volume swells.

With its mix of wicked dual-guitar interplay and smoldering beats—boogaloo, JB funk, ’60s soul-jazz, Memphis R&B, and more—Überjam Deux has what it takes to satisfy both your brain and booty.

Must-hear track: “Snake Dance”