DEAD
PINHOLE
PHOTO
GRAPHY

In a collective gasp of awe and bewilderment, Mookie Kramer and his legendary ensemble, The Eight Balls, deliver a live jazz experience that transcends the boundaries of time and space. Recorded in Paris at a hole-in-the-wall club in 1955, this seminal album captures the raw intensity and avant-garde brilliance that has come to define the genre. With help from the progressive label Dead Pinhole Records, it comes as no surprise that Kramer and his group push the boundaries of artistic expression with this audacious creation. ​LIVE! At the Escargot Club, with its unabashed confidence, invites the listener into a world where jazz is not a mere form of entertainment but an exalted, transformative experience. The centerpiece of this opus, the jazz standard "Not Guilty," is a masterclass in musical storytelling. Kramer’s languid sax dances playfully with the melancholic wails of Hick's trumpet, creating an emotional journey that leaves one yearning for more. It is a testament to the genius of Kramer and his Eight Balls that they can infuse such a widely known standard with a freshness that is nothing short of revelatory. However, it is in the audacious drum solo, "Wilder Honey Pie," that The Eight Balls truly reveal their mastery. A relentless kaleidoscope of percussive virtuosity, this track is a tour de force that leaves the listener breathless and questioning their own understanding of rhythm and time. Paul Bufano's wild abandon behind the kit is reminiscent of a mad scientist conducting a chaotic symphony, defying the norms of traditional jazz sensibilities. While some may find this bombastic display self-indulgent, one cannot deny the sheer audacity and technical brilliance that defines this momentous performance. ​Yet, for all its artistic merits, "LIVE!"  is not without its faults. Kramer's unmistakable virtuosity occasionally veers into the realm of pretentiousness, leaving the listener yearning for a respite from the unrelenting barrage of musical complexity. The lack of restraint can be overwhelming at times, overshadowing the raw emotion that jazz, at its heart, should convey. Nevertheless, it is this very audacity that sets Kramer and his "Eight Balls" apart from their peers, elevating them to the pantheon of jazz greats. Ultimately, LIVE! At the Escargot Club by Mookie Kramer and The Eight Balls is a daring exploration of the genre that dares to challenge even the most seasoned jazz enthusiasts. With their trademark avant-garde sensibility, Dead Pinhole Records has once again proven their commitment to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. While it may not be accessible to all, the group's unparalleled talent and unapologetic artistry make this live recording an essential addition to any jazz aficionado's collection. Prepare to be enchanted, bewildered, and ultimately transformed.  You won't get stuck behind these eight balls.