Live Real by Wolfgang Haffner: A Funky, Soulful Punch to the Ears
Alright, let’s get one thing straight—Wolfgang Haffner’s Live Real isn’t here to mess around. Released in 2002 under Skip Records, this German gem slaps you awake with its smooth jazz vibes and funk-soaked grooves. It’s like a late-night drive through neon-lit streets, except instead of dodgy shortcuts, you’re cruising on pure musicianship. Wolfgang doesn’t just play drums—he owns them, alongside an all-star lineup that includes Tony Lakatos on sax, Peter Tiehuis shredding guitar, and Magnum Coltrane Price spitting bars (yeah, rap in jazz—deal with it).
Now, if I had to pick two tracks that stick out, it’d be “The Real Thing” and “Drummer’s Delight.” Why? Because they slap harder than your ex after finding out you ate their leftovers.
First up, “The Real Thing.” This track hits you right off the bat with Eddie Greene’s buttery vocals sliding over Vladyslav Sendetzki’s keys like melted cheese on fresh bread. The groove is tight, man. Like, jeans-from-the-90s tight. Magnum Coltrane Price lays down some basslines so funky you’ll wanna breakdance even if you’ve got two left feet. And then there’s Wolfgang himself, hammering away at those drums like he’s trying to prove something—which, honestly, he probably is. You don’t forget this track because it feels alive. Like, literally pulsing with energy. If music could sweat, this song would need a towel.
Then we’ve got “Drummer’s Delight,” which is basically Wolfgang flexing his skills without being obnoxious about it. Well, kinda obnoxious—but in a good way. This tune is less about vocals and more about letting the instruments do the talking. Tony Lakatos’ sax solo? Chef’s kiss. Peter Tiehuis’ guitar riffs? Straight fire. There’s a moment halfway through where everything drops out except for Wolfgang’s drums, and dude goes full beast mode. It’s not just drumming—it’s storytelling. By the end, you almost feel bad for the other tracks on the album—they gotta follow THAT?
But hey, here’s the kicker: for all its slick production and killer performances, Live Real sneaks up on you. It’s not trying too hard to impress; it just does. Phil Magnotti nailed the mastering, keeping things crisp but not sterile. Every note breathes, every beat lands. And weirdly enough, that’s what makes it unforgettable.
So yeah, Wolfgang Haffner didn’t reinvent the wheel with Live Real, but he sure as hell polished it till it gleamed. Listening to this album feels like catching up with an old friend who still knows how to throw punches when needed. Unexpected reflection? Life’s short—why waste time on music that doesn’t make you move? Turn this up loud, let Magnum spit rhymes, and remember why live music kicks ass. Oh, and grab some snacks while you’re at it—you won’t wanna pause this one.
