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In the later part of the classic fusion era, Dry Jack emerged briefly to become one of the major fusion ensembles of the late 1970s. Their two Inner City recordings (Magical Elements and Whale City) documented the individuality and pure joy of this fine band.
Dry Jack, which was based in Kansas City, developed out of the collaborations of keyboardist Chuck Lamb and his brother electric bassist Rich Lamb. They originally played rock and were in the Bompa Bros. Band with their older brother John Lamb who played guitar. But by 1973, the Lambs had heard and been very impressed by Chick Corea's Return To Forever, and they changed their music to fusion and modern jazz. Dry Jack was formed that year and it lasted until 1982.
The personnel of Dry Jack changed a lot during its earlier years, but by the time it was documented by Inner City, it consisted of Chuck and Rich Lamb, guitarist Rod Fleeman (who in recent times has often played with singer Karrin Allyson) and drummer Jon Margolis.
At the beginning of Whale City's first selection, “Hammerhead,” the colorful keyboard work of Chuck Lamb does recall Chick Corea a little. But as the album progresses, his individuality and chance taking style emerge. While Dry Jack is generally a fusion group, their willingness to stretch themselves, and the pure joy that is constantly heard in their music causes them to be a standout.
“Heads In The Cloud” is a celebratory piece, one filled with exuberant spirit and high musicianship. “Neener Nawner” (based on a childhood taunt) is performed in two parts that cover two different moods. After “Wimpy Thing” (which sounds anything but a piece played by wimps), “Butch And Bruce Go Under The Sea” is a straight ahead jam that benefits from inventive guitar and bass solos.
Closing off the set is the most ambitious piece, a musical depiction of “Whale City,” complete with water sounds, adventure and intriguing episodes.
Review
"That suite by itself should result in Dry Jack being considered one of the top fusion bands of the late 1970s, and a group whose music deserves to be remembered and enjoyed today.
"During the late 1970s, when fusion was at its prime, Dry Jack emerged out of Kansas City. Originally inspired by Return To Forever, Dry Jack had developed its own sound by the time it made two recordings for Inner City. Consisting of keyboardist Chuck Lamb, bassist Rich Lamb, guitarist Rod Fleeman and drummer Joe Margolis, Dry Jack recorded Whale City as its follow-up to Magical Elements. The group’s joyful and enthusiastic playing, along with their desire to consistently stretch themselves, makes Whale City an exhilarating effort." -Scott Yanow
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