Watch Solos: The Jazz Sessions - James Blood Ulmer
- 49 min
Solos: The Jazz Sessions - James Blood Ulmer is a documentary film that follows the journey of James Blood Ulmer, the American jazz, funk and blues guitarist, through a series of jazz sessions in different locations across the world. The movie showcases his live performances and insights on music, influences, and life. Directed by Greg Olliver, the film gives the audience an in-depth look at the life and career of James Blood Ulmer. The movie showcases Ulmer's journey from his early days in South Carolina to his rise to fame in the jazz world. This journey is told through Ulmer's discussion and reflection on various topics and his live performances in New York, California, Austria, and other locations.
The movie starts with Ulmer's performance in a club in Brooklyn where he captivates the audience with his music. The movie then takes us to Ulmer's hometown in South Carolina where he talks about his family and how he picked up the guitar. He shares personal anecdotes and states what inspired him to pursue a musical career.
We then see Ulmer in California where he reflects on how he created his own unique style of music. He discusses his beginnings in the industry playing with various bands before becoming a solo artist. He shares how he was a part of the influential New York scene in the 1970s and how he evolved his music to become more experimental.
The film also showcases Ulmer's live performances that are recorded in high fidelity. We see him jamming with other musicians and giving impromptu performances which showcase his musical talents. One performance that stands out is his collaboration with the Viennese saxophonist, Wolfgang Puschnig, at the Jazzfestival Saalfelden in Austria. The two musicians blend their styles and create a unique jazz sound that is truly mesmerizing.
Through the interviews and conversations, the movie sheds light on the life of a jazz musician. Ulmer discusses the challenges of being a musician and making a living from music. He shares his thoughts on the industry and his approach to the art of jazz. He believes that jazz is a form of personal expression and that musicians should be true to themselves.
Overall, Solos: The Jazz Sessions - James Blood Ulmer is a documentary that captures the essence of jazz music and pays tribute to one of the most influential jazz musicians of our time. The movie showcases Ulmer's life, career, and music in a way that is honest, engaging, and inspiring. The film encapsulates Ulmer's philosophy on life and music, and leaves the audience with a sense of awe and an appreciation for the art of jazz.
In conclusion, if you are a jazz lover or even if you are new to the genre, this movie is a must-watch. Solos: The Jazz Sessions - James Blood Ulmer is a brilliant documentary that takes you on a journey of music, inspiration, and self-discovery. It is a movie that should not be missed.