playlist #10 | Jaco Pastorius: Six String Stories

Let’s embark on exciting bassy drive through the discography of Jaco Pastorius whose trailblazing work forever changed the landscape of jazz bass history. Here are six significant songs in the terrain carved out by Jaco Pastorius’ illustrious career.

Portrait of Tracy (Jaco Pastorius, 1976)

Can you feel how delicate and natural his harmonics are? “Portrait of Tracy” is a multi-layered harmonic gem that transformed the electric bass into a soloist. His cascading harmonics dance delicately over the fretboard, creating a sense of otherworldly beauty that captivates listeners and bass players.

Birdland (Heavy Weather by Weather Report, 1977)

“Birdland,” where Jaco’s rhythmic bass lines soar like birds in flight against the backdrop of Weather Report’s intricate melodic sky. This song fuses elements of jazz, rock, and funk into a vibrant tapestry of Weather Report sound.

From the moment the infectious melody kicks in, “Birdland” grabs hold of your senses and doesn’t let go, which can be the reason why it has been covered by numerous artists across different musical styles over the years.

The Chicken (The Birthday Concert, 1995)

Fast-forwarding to 1995 for a legendary live recording in The Birthday Concert, “the chicken” is as if Jaco had caught a funky chicken mid-strut and mimicked its movements as irresistible grooves that make you want to join the dance.

Jaco’s version of “The Chicken” undoubtedly captures the essence of his musical genius. His improvisations soar effortlessly over the funky groove laid down by the rhythm and horn section, injecting into the original piece his signature fretless harmonic and rhythmic complexities.

(Used To Be A) Cha-Cha (Jaco Pastorius, 1976)

Next, let’s sashay over to “(Used To Be A) Cha-Cha,” where Cuban rhythms meet Jaco’s jazz in an exhilarating display of Jaco’s versatility and technical prowess. His harmonics, percussive slapping techniques, and melodic lines redefine what is possible on the electric bass.

Teen Town (Heavy Weather by Weather Report, 1977)

Did you know, in “Teen Town” recording, Jaco did not only lay down infectious bass lines but also played amazing drum beats & fills?

Starting with Jaco’s cool snare drum fill followed by chewy 16th-note hihat groove, Jaco’s recognizable bass leads the song intro, and the overall “Teen Town” sound by each member then continues to create tension and release sophisticatedly.

Come On, Come Over (Jaco Pastorius, 1976)

“Come On, Come Over” is a lively and energetic piece featuring soulful vocals atop tight funk & soul arrangement, demonstrating Jaco’s genius for blending diverse musical styles into one cohesive sound. The rhythm section lays down a groovy foundation over which the horns add punchy accents, creating an infectious danceable “Jaco” vibe.

(header image credit: jacopastorius.com)