"What makes this CD extra interesting is that it shows a piece of history of the tenor saxophone in jazz. In this case, an important aspect of jazz is clearly emerging. Big soloists have their own sound and put their unique signature in each piece of music. It is one of the characteristics of the art form that is called jazz."
Jazz in Europe, 05-3-2018As the title of the book that Eric and I co-authored The Ultimate Sideman demonstrates, Eric is the epitome of what a total rhythm section player should demonstrate. That is recognizing exactly what is musically needed to make any soloist comfortable and relaxed so they can concentrate on sounding at the top of their game. This historic album provides total proof of how Eric accomplishes this challenging task. The instrumental focus is specially on tenor players featuring some of the all-time greats. With Eddie Davis, Johnny Griffin, Clifford Jordan, George Coleman, Dexter Gordon, Grant Stewart, Lucky Thompson, John Ruocco and I am honored to say myself, each track clearly highlights Eric's sympathetic and on some of the tunes very intense playing. In fact the Dexter track might be one of Dex ́s most intense and adventurous live outings recorded....a fantastic take on one of the great tunes from the jazz repertoire, Benny Golson ́s “Stablemates.”
All of us who have toured with Eric know how generous his spirit is, with a great sense of humor and grace not only on the bandstand but on a day to day basis as he organizes all the many levels of logistics required to bring these gigs off. This is an historical recording that I am sure took a lot of work to put together traversing decades from 1968 to 2014. The music clearly shows the way it used to be and in some cases still exists.... a soloist joins a rhythm section for a few sets playing standards, communicating non-verbally and if it is Eric Ineke on drums, for sure, SWINGING!! Happy 70th my friend.
- David Liebman. Stroudsburg, PA USA. January 14, 2017
What makes this CD extra interesting is that it shows a piece of history of the tenor saxophone in jazz. In this case, an important aspect of jazz is clearly emerging. Big soloists have their own sound and put their unique signature in each piece of music. It is one of the characteristics of the art form that is called jazz.
Jazz in Europe, 05-3-2018
A great CD that actually screams for a sequel because there is more of similar material available.
Rootstime, 06-12-2017
CD, which belongs in the collection of every true jazz freak.
Jazzmo', 24-10-2017
A beautiful tribute to a beautiful musician.
Dr Jazz, 08-9-2017
This fine compilation of his work with nine of the great tenor saxophonists gives the listener a golden opportunity to listen to some of their best workouts and compare their styles and approaches.
All About Jazz, 21-8-2017
A bit of bebop here, a touch of R&B there, and voilà, you have an omelet made with a couple of extra eggs and a splash of hot sauce! It’s a great conclusion to an overall fine album.
The Art Music Lounge, 03-7-2017
Each track exposes one aspect of Ineke's versatility.
Music Emotion, 01-6-2017
Such an anniversary you wish for everyone.
Jazzism, 05-5-2017
Meets The Tenorplayers; Let There Be Life, Love And Laughter 'is a valuable collection of legendary tenorplayers
JazzFlits, 01-5-2017
'Eric Ineke Meets The Tenor Players' is an important historical document and can not be missed in any serious jazz collection.
Jazzenzo, 24-4-2017
Let There Be Life, Love And Laughter is a thoroughly enjoyable reminder of the swing and expertise that Eric Ineke has always brought to his gigs with incoming Americans.
Flophouse Magazine, 18-4-2017
Drummer Eric Ineke is elevated in the Order of Orange Nassau. He received the Royal Award on April 1, his seventieth birthday, at the Bimhuis in Amsterdam.
JazzFlits, 17-4-2017
Now that lneke is seventy, Challenge Records presents a nice compilation of recordings of Dutch and Belgian stages.
Het Parool, 11-4-2017
Jazz drummer Eric Ineke gets a royal ribbon
Leeuwarder Courant, 03-4-2017
A great album tribute to the drummer of a whole generation of boppers.
Jazzhalo, 01-4-2017