There are some performers who are clearly great yet whose records, and often live performances, are often disappointing because their back-up bands are not at the same artistic level.
Here's a list of 10 artists whom I love, but have to admit, often disappoint:
Sonny Rollins-Jumped the shark when the electric bass came in.
B.B. King-World's greatest bluesman. Not the world's greatest band.
Johnny Winter-Perfunctory bass/drum background with his early trio. Things improve when Rick Derringer joins the band.
Paul McCartney-All post-Beatles albums with few exceptions (although I can't think of one).
Miles Davis-The comeback years had their moments but when Schofield gives way to Foley...
Jeff Beck-I love "Truth." Like "Beck-ola" but the "rock" efforts after that are poor. BBA anyone?
Michael Bloomfield/Paul Butterfield-Is there anything more dire than their post-Butterfield Band solo albums?
Wayne Shorter-Admit it. He was even under-used in Weather Report. Current bands/albums are a little better. And this is a GREAT musician.
Danny Gatton-Coulda been a contender but the albums don't rise above bar band staples. Sadly missed.
Junior Brown-Have you ever heard him live?
Sorry about mixing the jazz names into the rock thread.
If you think I'm wrong tell me. Or add your names.