AMG Review of Life & Times

Robert Taylor
All Music Guide

The follow up to A Funky Thide of Sings is a slight improvement over its predecessor. John Scofield makes his presence felt on "Song for a Friend, I & II" as he showcases his now trademark sound. Cobham was still exploring various funk patterns, as evidenced on "Life and Times" and "East Bay." "29" contains some inspired playing by Doug Rauch, while "Earthlings" is the most intense piece here led by Cobham's thunderous double bass shuffle. Scofield's performance more than makes up for this session dated sound.