Record Reviews
24 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | JAN AKKERMAN ~ A TOUCH OF CLASS
VOICEPRINT 017 (Barcode: 604388663224) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 - 1983 Released: 2005
Dutch guitar virtuoso Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist is most widely known as the co-leader of the legendary band FocusFind albums by this artist. However, after leaving Focus, Akkerman developed a splendid solo career, which now spans over 30 years of activity. As a soloist, Akkerman proved to be a most versatile musician, playing both acoustic guitar (and many other acoustic guitar-related instruments) and electric guitar, all this in different genres, from classical music, early music, blues, jazz and fusion. His exceptional technique and highly developed musical taste place him in a class of his own. This excellent DVD brings to light some archival material not seen in many years. The main part of the DVD includes a 1983 TV special, filmed in London for the BBC. It includes his then current group performing material from Jan’s albums: Can`t Stand NoiseFind albums with this title and TabernakelFind albums with this title, interviews with Akkerman and BBC footage of Focus from 1973. The bonus material includes footage filmed 18 month later and capturing a rare performance of Akkerman using the guitar synthesizer. For many Akkerman / Focus fans this is an absolute must and a most enjoyable musical experience. NTSC
| | | DVD 1 Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAN AKKERMAN ~ ARANJUEZ
GOTT DISCS 009 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1978
7th album by the Dutch guitar virtuoso Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist and ex-member of FocusFind albums by this artist. The fascination with classical music was eveident on all Akkerman`s early solo albums and his excellent acoustic guitar playing of classical material served as an alter ego to his energetic electric rock accomplishments. This is a splendid album, beautifully arranged by Claus OgermanFind albums by this artist, who also conducts the classical orchestra accompanying the guitarist and who also worked with other Focus memeber Thijs van LeerFind albums by this artist on his classical solo albums. Akkerman performs mostly classical material by Rodrigo, Villa-Lobos, Ravel and others, with just one composition of his own. This is a gentle, delicate work of passion - not for everybody, but those with the classical streak in them will enjoy this one immensly.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAN AKKERMAN ~ FROM THE BASEMENT
HUX 012 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1984
14th solo album by Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist, remastered and with a load of bonus tracks. Jazz-rock fusion style with a trio and solo solo guitar offerings.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAN AKKERMAN ~ JAN AKKERMAN
WEA 242360 (Barcode: 022924236020) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2000
5th album by the eclectic Dutch guitar genius Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist recorded at the same sessions that produced the album EliFind albums with this title, but using a set of different players. This was Akkerman’s first step into the world of Fusion, which would be his main area of activity for the next few years. He invited the phenomenal German keyboards player Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist (a friendship and cooperation that was to last for many years), the Italian drummer Bruno CastelucciFind albums by this artist and percussionist Neppie NoyaFind albums by this artist – all three were very active on the European Fusion scene – to take part in the recording and the result was a mixture of instrumental Prog and Fusion with brilliant soloing all over. Akkerman wrote all the music, which includes some of his best fine crafted melodies. The album also served as a basis for creation of the Jan Akkerman Band, which performed all across Europe and was later recorded live at the Montreux Jazz Festival (his next release). Essential for Akkerman and FocusFind albums by this artist fans.
| | Updated: 18/07/2020Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAN AKKERMAN ~ LIVE
WOUNDED BIRD 9241 (Barcode: 664140924123) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2009
6th album by Dutch guitarist / composer Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist, recorded live at the Montreux Jazz Festival shortly after the release of the eponymous predecessor. Backed by an excellent band, which includes the Dutch keyboardist Jasper van`t HofFind albums by this artist, drummer Bruno CastelucciFind albums by this artist, percussionist Neppie NoyaFind albums by this artist and others, Akkerman delivers a blistering set of Jazz-Rock Fusion displaying his amazing technique and energy. Three of the six tunes played are composed by Akkerman and the others are contributions by his band members. Akkerman was at the peak of his powers at the time and this overall excellent album is a great reminder of that period. Definitely a must for all his loyal fans, but of interest also to all Fusion buffs. Recommended!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAN AKKERMAN ~ PROFILE
BGO 490 (Barcode: 5017261204905) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2000
2nd album by the legendary FocusFind albums by this artist guitarist Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist recorded while he was still with the group. It showcases Akkerman`s brilliant playing, both as an electric Fusion player and as acoustic classical one. Backed by the cream of contemporary Dutch musicians (some fellow Focus members and some members of other groups like TraceFind albums by this artist) he shines throughout. The 20+ minutes opening track is a Fusion suite a la Mahavishnu. A classic!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | FOCUS ~ AT THE RAINBOW
RED BULLET 66.190 (Barcode: 8712944661903) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2001
This is the 4th album (and the only live album) by the great Dutch group FocusFind albums by this artist, led by flautist / keyboardist / composer Thijs van LeerFind albums by this artist, which also included the brilliant guitarist / composer Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist. Following the somewhat unfocused debut album, this masterpiece finds them at their absolute best, an album which is one of the best classic Prog albums of all times and an essential piece of music history. Recorded at the legendary London venue "The Rainbow" it captures the group at their absolute peak and is one of the greatest live Prog albums of all times. A timeless classic!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | FOCUS ~ FOCUS 3
RED BULLET 66.189 (Barcode: 8712944661897) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2001
This is the 3rd album by the great Dutch group FocusFind albums by this artist, led by flautist / keyboardist / composer Thijs van LeerFind albums by this artist, which also included the brilliant guitarist / composer Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist. Following the somewhat unfocused debut album, this masterpiece finds them at their absolute best, an album which is one of the best classic Prog albums of all times and an essential piece of music history. Originally a double LP it includes the suite "Anonymous Two" (over 26 minutes long) is a beautiful example of the scope and imagination of music made at the time. A timeless classic!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | FOCUS ~ HAMBURGER CONCERTO
RED BULLET 66.191 (Barcode: 8712944661910) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2001
This is the 5th album by the great Dutch group FocusFind albums by this artist, led by flautist / keyboardist / composer Thijs van LeerFind albums by this artist, which also included the brilliant guitarist / composer Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist. Following the somewhat unfocused debut album, this masterpiece finds them at their absolute best, an album which is one of the best classic Prog albums of all times and an essential piece of music history. Returning to the studio after releasing the live album "At The RainbowFind albums with this title", the band is still at their absolute peak and the resulting masterpiece is the last great peace of music the band was destined to record. The 20 plus minutes long title track is a Prog epitome. A timeless classic!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | FOCUS ~ IN AND OUT OF FOCUS
RED BULLET 66.187 (Barcode: 8712944661873) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2001
This is the 1st album by the great Dutch group FocusFind albums by this artist, led by flautist / keyboardist / composer Thijs van LeerFind albums by this artist, which also included the brilliant guitarist / composer Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist. Following this somewhat unfocused debut album, the group released several masterpiece albums, which were some of the best classic Prog albums of all times and an essential piece of music history. This album finds them searching for their unique sound and style, mixing Jazz influences and Rock sound, as no other group before them. In retrospect it is still a solid Prog album and the obvious virtuosity and sense of melody of these great musicians is omnipresent. It is a must for all Focus fans!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | FOCUS ~ LIVE AT THE BBC
HUX 051 (Barcode: 682970000510) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2004
BBC Radio recording by the legendary Dutch Prog band FocusFind albums by this artist. After Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist left Focus he was replaced by the brilliant Belgian jazz / fusion guitarist Philip CatherineFind albums by this artist. This change was so refreshing, that the band`s material sounded fresh again and his virtuoso performances are the focal point of this album. The bands is full of fire and energy and without a shadow of a doubt this is one the the best Focus recordings ever. What a joy to Focus fans, who are always on the lookout for new material by the band. Highly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | FOCUS ~ MOTHER FOCUS
RED BULLET 66.192 (Barcode: 8712944661927) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2001
This is the 6th album by the great Dutch group FocusFind albums by this artist, led by flautist / keyboardist / composer Thijs van LeerFind albums by this artist, which also included the brilliant guitarist / composer Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist. Following the somewhat unfocused debut album, the group released several masterpiece albums, which were some of the best classic Prog albums of all times and an essential piece of music history. This album finds them trying to find a new style, which is more commercially oriented that the earlier material. Although received with criticism at the time, in retrospect it is still a solid Prog album and the obvious virtuosity and sense of melody of these great musicians is omnipresent. It is a must for all Focus fans!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | FOCUS ~ MOVING WAVES
RED BULLET 66.188 (Barcode: 8712944661880) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2001
This is the 2nd album by the great Dutch group FocusFind albums by this artist, led by flautist / keyboardist / composer Thijs van LeerFind albums by this artist, which also included the brilliant guitarist / composer Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist. Following the somewhat unfocused debut album, this masterpiece finds them at their absolute best, an album which is one of the best classic Prog albums of all times and an essential piece of music history. The suite "Eruption" (over 23 minutes long) is a beautiful example of the scope and imagination of music made at the time. A timeless classic!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | FOCUS ~ SHIP OF MEMORIES
RED BULLET 66.193 (Barcode: 8712944661934) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2001
This is the 7th album by the great Dutch group FocusFind albums by this artist, led by flautist / keyboardist / composer Thijs van LeerFind albums by this artist, which also included the brilliant guitarist / composer Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist. Following the somewhat unfocused debut album, the group released several masterpiece albums, which were some of the best classic Prog albums of all times and an essential piece of music history. This album collects a series of previously unreleased recordings made around the time the live album was released, dating several years back before the album´s release date. Considering the fact that this material comes from the best period of the group, this album is particularly strong. It is a must for all Focus fans!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | FUSION SYNDICATE ~ A SPEEDWAY ON SATURN`S RINGS
PURPLE PYRAMID 4022 (Barcode: 889466402227) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2012 - 2023 Released: 2023
This is the second album by the Fusion SyndicateFind albums by this artist, a brainchild of American guitarist / composer / producer Fernando PerdomoFind albums by this artist, who assembled a group of Fusion / Prog superstars to record (mostly) his compositions with various lineups, which change from track to track. The collective lineup includes guitarists Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist and Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist, keyboardists Rick WakemanFind albums by this artist and Brian JacksonFind albums by this artist, bassist Jah WobbleFind albums by this artist and Alphonso JohnsonFind albums by this artist and drummer Chester ThompsonFind albums by this artist, among others. The album presents eight tracks recorded in late 2022 and early 2023.
The album also presents four bonus tracks produced and composed by bassist / composer Billy SherwoodFind albums by this artist, which originate from the debut eponymous album by Fusion Syndicate from 2012, which is difficult to find these days. It features such Fusion giants like bassist Jimmy HaslipFind albums by this artist, guitarist Larry CoryellFind albums by this artist, violinist Jerry GoodmanFind albums by this artist, drummer Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist and others.
Although featuring excellent musicians, the album has nothing new to offer musically and has no coherent concept per se. There is plenty of excitement and excellent soloing by the participants, as expected, but sadly it confirms the notion that Fusion, following a relatively brief period of creativity and Artistic productivity during the Golden Decade (1965-1975) has been mostly dormant, if not dead since.
Overall, this is a well-played typical Fusion album, which adds nothing new to the genre’s illustrious past, but offers a pleasant listening experience to the genre’s hard to die fans.
| | Updated: 08/12/2023Posted: 08/12/2023 | CD 1 Digipak Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOACHIM KUHN ~ SUNSHOWER
WOUNDED BIRD 9193 (Barcode: 664140919327) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2008
Virtuoso German keyboardist Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist is one of the greatest representatives of European Jazz and his illustrious career and numerous recordings are a source of inspiration for any true music lover. Strongly influenced by his older brother Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist, an exquisite clarinetist, Joachim started to play Jazz professionally in the 1960s and was one of the founding fathers of the great modern German Jazz scene. In his early days Kuhn played mostly modern Free Jazz. But by the 1970s he flirted extensively with Jazz-Rock Fusion recording a series of wonderful albums in that genre first for the legendary MPSFind albums on this label label and later for AtlanticFind albums on this label. This album finds Kuhn in a quintet setting with two guitarists: the brilliant Dutch Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist and American Ray GomezFind albums by this artist, bassist Tony NewtonFind albums by this artist and drummer Glenn SymmondsFind albums by this artist. All the music was written by Kuhn and it is absolutely stunning, this time more Rock influenced that his previous releases, but as always, performed with passion and exquisite taste by all the musicians. Kuhn´s extended acoustic piano solos are breathtaking, as are the solos by the guitar players and the entire album is an absolute must to any serious Jazz-Rock Fusion fan, especially those open to the European branch of the genre. Essential stuff!
| | Updated: 30/01/2016Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOACHIM KUHN & JAN AKKERMAN ~ LIVE!
IN-AKUSTIK 868 (Barcode: 4001985008681) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1979 Released: 2000
This is a reissue / remaster of a live album by a duo comprising of two legendary European musicians: German Jazz pianist / composer Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist and Dutch Rock guitarist / composer Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist (co-founder of FocusFind albums by this artist). The album presents just two tracks, which are different interpretations of the same composition by Kuhn, recorded several weeks apart during the duo’s 1979 European tour, twelve and twenty-one minutes in duration respectively.
The music is a superb example of Improvised Music, which combines Jazz and Rock improvisation “under one roof”, which was quite popular in Europe the 1970s. Kuhn and Akkerman played together on various occasions earlier on, and the duo concerts were a culmination of their musical cooperation.
The idea to present two versions of the same composition, separated by just a few weeks of playing the tune repeatedly, shows how music develops as a result of being performed and shared intimately, especially so if improvisation is at the focus. The album is also a great document of Rock Improvisation, which is quite different from Jazz-Rock Fusion, and which goes back to the 1960s, especially to British Rock, which included Rock Improvisation (unrelated to Jazz), for example in the concert recordings of groups like CreamFind albums by this artist or ColosseumFind albums by this artist.
Overall, this is a fascinating and relatively little known album by two great musicians, who present inter-genre cooperation at its best. Both are virtuosos of their instruments, which is clearly evident herein, and the “Art of the Duo” idiom suits this beautiful album perfectly. Not easy to find by definitely worth finding a copy!
| | Updated: 16/08/2024Posted: 16/08/2024 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MARK NAUSEEF ~ PERSONAL NOTE
CHICKADISC 003 (Barcode: 5901549197792) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1981 Released: 2017
This is a reissue of the debut album by the American drummer Mark NauseefFind albums by this artist, originally released on the legendary German CMPFind albums on this label label. It features an incredible team of musicians, which includes the German pianist Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist, Indian percussionist Trilok GurtuFind albums by this artist, German keyboardist George KochbeckFind albums by this artist and guest stars: Dutch guitarist Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist, German bassist Detlev BeierFind albums by this artist and British vocalist / bassist Phil LynottFind albums by this artist of Thin LizzyFind albums by this artist fame. The album presents six original compositions, most of which were composed or co-composed by Kuhn, except one percussion duet which is credited to Nauseef and Gurtu.
The music presents a wide variety of styles, from Rock, via Jazz-Rock Fusion, Jazz-World Fusion and up to Improvised Music, which is completely unpredictable but always fascinating. There are definitely composed parts, but most of the music is improvised, using a plethora of instruments, both acoustic and electronic, producing a sound which was way ahead of its time.
In retrospect this music sounds as innovative today as it was at the time of its recording, completely free of any stylistic constrains and instrumental conceptions. The strong rhythmic layer of drums / percussion adds a feeling of vitality and urgency and the piano / saxophone parts by Kuhn are absolutely stunning, catching him at his very best.
Overall this is a blast from the past, which is most welcome to be back in circulation after a very long period of absence. For true Fusion connoisseurs this album is a Holy Grail which should be a part of any serious music collection.
As usual the remastered music and excellent liner notes make this reissue a must have. The ChickadiscFind albums on this label label is a subsidiary of the excellent Polish GADFind albums on this label Records, which by now is a trademark of quality.
| | Updated: 06/02/2018Posted: 06/02/2018 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
|
