I'm reviewing "Jaco" after seeing it for the second time in three years. This time it became apparent to me that Jaco ("the greatest bass player who ever lived") was a real life Tragic Hero in the classical sense. He had a seemingly supernatural gift, but ultimately mental illness and addiction plagued him after his rise to the top. The documentary lays out that story, and features commentary by some of the collaborating musicians who were also at the top of their field (Joni Mitchell, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter). Viewers who are unfamiliar with Jaco Pastorius might not find this as engaging as his fans will. But for those who are curious about a musician who completely revolutionized the way of playing his instrument, this doc might turn you on to one of the greats.

06JAN2020 {4/10 stars C-} Recommend? Yes, for those familiar with Jaco or love learning about music history. -6 stars for repeating content.

The documentary could have easily been shortened by at least 20 minutes and made more concise. Before this was suggested on Hulu I had never heard of Jaco. Decided to play the video and found it to be dry, slow and long winded. Some of the interviews have repeating content that is tiring to hear. Like, how Jaco frequently introduced himself as "the greatest bass player in the world" followed by people saying they didn't believe him and wanted him to prove his claim.

This video is so slow going I typed this while the documentary played and had no problem following what was happening. I found Jaco Pastorius on the Pandora app and will be listening to his music.

The harmonics and sound of Jaco's guitar playing are relaxing and exhilarating depending on the speed of his playing. Unfortunately Jaco only plays guitar, he does not sing. There are many long interludes in the documentary of only Jaco strumming his bass guitar with no vocals or other instruments playing. After awhile these interludes get to be tiresome. Some of Jaco's guitar playing is used as background music for when people are talking. This was a good way to share his music abilities while also allowing time for people to talk. The production quality and sound is good. Many musicians, some famous, took time to appear in this documentary and talk about Jaco.

There are a few clips in this documentary of Jaco sitting and talking interview style about himself and his music. There should have been a lot more of this with less repeating content and long interludes of Jaco strumming.

CONTENT ADVISORY: Documentary starts with some previews that include profanity like the f-word. Profanity in this documentary are f-word and sh't said a few times along with damn, assh'le and God's name said in vain.

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