AllMusic

Obituary

Frozen in Time

July 19, 2005

Death Metal

Obituary's reunion album wasn't only a surprise because of the long absence, but also because it's so darn good, up there with the best the band ever recorded, even in their heyday. Clocking in at a brisk ten songs in 35 minutes, it's a perfect Obituary album. Nearly 15 years later, "Redneck Stomp" still often serves as the band's live show-opener.

- Jason Birchmeier

James Blood Ulmer

Odyssey

April, 1984

Free Funk

A classic of the modern jazz avant-garde, this is the purest, most accessible showcase for the guitarist’s bold, genre-clashing guitar vision. With minimal trio accompaniment -- drummer Warren Benbow and violinist Charles Burnham--Ulmer's guitar’s unique tuning (developed for this album) allows him to cover bass parts as well as leads. There is a conscious emphasis on the smoother tones of Burnham's amplified violin, often fed through a wah-wah pedal. Highlights include, “Church,” "Love Dance" and Swing & Things.”

- Steve Huey