Jaco Pastorius – Invitation
Invitationis a live album by Jaco Pastorius, released in December 1983. It was recorded at various venues during a tour of Japan in September 1982, featuring his “Word of Mouth” big band. While his debut album showcased his eclectic and impressive skills on the electric bass, both Invitation and his previous album, Word of Mouth focused more on his ability to arrange for a larger band. The band’s all-star cast included Randy Brecker, Bob Mintzer, Toots Thielemans, Peter Erskine, Othello Molineaux, and Don Alias.
Reception.
The AllMusic review by Scott Yanow awarded the album 4.5 stars stating “Electric bassist Jaco Pastorius’ Word of Mouth big band made two recordings for Warner Bros. during its short life, of which is this is the superior one. ”
Personnel: Jaco Pastorius – electric bass, vocals (on “Fannie Mae”) Randy Brecker – trumpet Bob Mintzer – tenor and soprano saxophone Jean “Toots” Thielemans – harmonica (listed as a “special guest”) Peter Erskine – drums Othello Molineaux – steel drum Don Alias – percussion
Additional: Elmer Brown, Forrest Buchtel, Ron Tooley – trumpet Jon Faddis – trumpet Wayne Andre – trombone Dave Bargeron – trombone, tuba Peter Graves – bass trombone, co-conductor Bill Reichenbach – bass trombone Mario Cruz – tenor and soprano saxophone, clarinet, alto flute Randy Emerick – baritone saxophone, clarinet Alex Foster – tenor, alto, and soprano saxophone, clarinet, piccolo Paul McCandless – tenor saxophone, oboe, English horn Peter Gordon, Brad Warnaar – French horn
