Record Reviews
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  | JOHN ABERCROMBIE ~ GATEWAY
ECM 1061 (Barcode: 602517762121) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2008
US guitarist / composer John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist emerged as one of the most formidable forces in Fusion in the late 1960s / early 1970s. By the time he signed with the legendary ECMFind albums on this label label his musical horizons expanded tremendously and he started experimenting with music outside the relatively limited scope of Fusion. This trio recording with British bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and US drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist is a great example of this metamorphosis. Abercrombie still uses Fusion phrases and voicing, but the format is much more free and exploratory. The music was composed mostly by Holland (four of the six tracks on this album), who would become one of the greatest modern Jazz composers in addition to his virtuoso bass playing. DeJohnette composed one of the tracks and co-composed the remaining one with Abercrombie. The performances are of course stellar and the album remains an important milestone of adventurous Fusion, similar to John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist´s "ExtrapolationFind albums with this title". Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | GORDON BECK ~ EXPERIMENTS WITH POPS
ART OF LIFE 1001 (Barcode: 804640100126) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2001
Pianist / composer Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist is one of the true forefathers of modern British and European Jazz; a pioneer and revolutionary in every sense and a giant musician, who managed to free himself from the boundaries imposed by the American Jazz tradition and take the music a step further to a new sphere. What is even more remarkable and amazing is the fact that in contrast to most British and European musicians, who took their emancipation from the rigors of the past towards Free Jazz and Improvised Music, Beck remained firmly within the seemingly “mainstream” form, playing melodically and in strict time, and yet so much “out there” that for people who are able to hear the difference it’s truly staggering. Beck first came to prominence when he joined the group led by British Jazz legend Tubby HayesFind albums by this artist in 1962 and remained with him for several years as his regular pianist, performing and recording some of the most remarkable albums in the British Jazz history. Since 1967 Beck started to record as a leader and his trio became the “house band” of the famous Ronnie ScottFind albums by this artist’s London club. By the end of the 1960s he took part in the development of the British Jazz-Rock Fusion, playing with Phil WoodsFind albums by this artist in the European Rhythm MachineFind albums by this artist and later with NucleusFind albums by this artist. He became increasingly involved with other musicians from the European scene, especially with many French Jazz players (an association that thrives to these very days). His extensive discography accumulated over the years, both as leader and sideman, is a formidable body of work, which stands out as one of the most consistently excellent and creative. This album was Beck’s second (out of three) release on the tiny independent Major MinorFind albums on this label label, which in time became one of the most sought after British Jazz collector’s items. For the recording Beck expanded his trio (Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist – bass and Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist – drums) to a quartet, with the addition of no other that guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, known at the time as “Johnny”. Apart from the fact that this is one of the very few early McLaughlin recordings, and therefore of immense historical value, the entire quartet is probably one of the strongest and most extraordinary European ensembles, pioneering the European approach of collective playing. McLaughlin’s brilliant arpeggios, Oxley’s prophetic time keeping away from time, Clyne’s innovative bass explorations and Beck’s flights all over the keyboard collectively create an new amalgam of sounds, taking the music to a new dimension, previously unexplored. How ironic, considering that the material consists entirely from Pop songs popular at the time (hence the album’s title), but in the hands of these players the music becomes truly experimental, as promised by the album’s title. The album’s producer Ray HorricksFind albums by this artist writes in the original liner notes: “This could be the most creative Jazz quartet album ever recorded in Europe… previous quartet recordings in London, or on the Continent, and including the best, have consisted of a rhythm section accompanying a leading soloist; whereas this one features a genuine collective development along lines which no other group, except Gary BurtonFind albums by this artist’s in America, has yet proceeded”. How perceptive and prophetic… Kudos to Paul KohlerFind albums by this artist of Art Of LifeFind albums on this label Records for bringing this timeless masterpiece back to circulation. This music, 40 years after it was recorded, sounds better and more exciting than most of what one hears in contemporary Jazz. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM BOND ~ LIVE AT THE BBC AND OTHER STORIES
REPERTOIRE 1279 (Barcode: 4009910127926) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1962 - 1972 Released: 2015
This is a Box Set of archival material by British saxophonist / organist / composer / bandleader Graham BondFind albums by this artist, one of the most idiosyncratic and pioneering figures of the British Jazz, Jazz-Rock and Prog scenes. The material collected here consists mostly of recordings made by the BBC, but includes also some ultra-rare home recordings, demos and other ditties, covering the period between 1962 and 1972, which more or less presents Bond´s entire career before his tragic death in 1974, aged just 36 at the time.
Regardless of what various music history sources have to say, Bond is singlehandedly responsible for the creation of the Jazz-Rock idiom around 1963, when he formed the Graham Bond QuartetFind albums by this artist, which featured guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, bassist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist (which were all destined to become superstars in the years to follow). The quartet amalgamated Bond´s experience with the Jazz world, gained while he was a member of the Don RendellFind albums by this artist Quintet, with the exploding Rhythm And Blues phenomenon, creating the earliest manifestation of Jazz-Rock known to man. One session of the Don Rendell Quintet with Bond as its member is included here and it also features as a guest musician saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, who would become another of Bond´s close associates when he formed the seminal Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist in 1965, which was later joined by the celebrated drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. Following the Organization´s breakup Bond formed the Graham Bond InitiationFind albums by this artist and later on collaborated with the poet / lyricist Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, who wrote also the booklet that accompanies this Box Set. Their recordings together are the last (chronologically) tracks in this collection.
The music included in this collection is of varied quality and sometimes of pretty Lo-Fi sound quality, even after it was carefully restored and remastered, but it is of enormous historic importance, as it documents not only Bond´s career but in fact the entire British Jazz scene, which was experiencing at that time a tremendous upheaval and explosion of new talents and ideological modifications of the very fabric of Jazz, which was parting from the American dominance and creating a new variety of the idiom, which would crystallize as European Jazz, spawning Jazz-Rock in the process.
Bond´s performances on the Hammond Organ are all superbly executed and it makes perfect sense that they influenced an entire generation of British musicians, who invented Progressive Rock next, such a Jon LordFind albums by this artist of Deep PurpleFind albums by this artist, Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist of ColosseumFind albums by this artist, Brian AugerFind albums by this artist and of course many others. In general the music portrays the atmosphere of the British scene at the time, where genres and classifications were pretty arbitrary and where the Jazz / Rock / Prog idioms were influencing and embracing each other with ease and natural affinity.
Kudos to the German RepertoireFind albums on this label label, which is one of the most important sources of reissues, for the meticulous work done on this set and for bringing this material back to life. This set continues the work done by Repertoire on the previous Graham Bond Box Set called "Wade In The Water – Classics, Origins and OdditiesFind albums with this title", which covers the recordings by Graham Bond Organization. Together these two Box Sets pay tribute to one of the greatest heroes of the British Jazz / Jazz-Rock pioneering figures, who is sadly often forgotten and is rarely given the credit he deserves for his revolutionary creativity.
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 01/04/2016 | CD 4 Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM BOND ~ SOLID BOND
COLLECTORS` CHOICE 2000 (Barcode: 617742200027) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1963 - 1966 Released: 2009
If there ever was a quintessential Jazz-Rock album, which practically not only is the first recorded example of the genre, but also defines it unequivocally, this is it! The music herein was initially released as a double LP for the first time in 1970, but it consists of two sessions recorded earlier by the legendary British saxophonist / organist / vocalist Graham BondFind albums by this artist, the earlier one in 1963 and the later in 1966. These two sessions, diametrically different and yet completely unified in spirit, present a miniscule window into the time-space continuum, which enables us to take a peek at the most feverish period in British music, where invention and pioneering breakthrough were happening on a daily basis. The first of these two sessions is not only the first recording of the emerging Jazz-Rock genre but also the recording debut of one of its future heroes, guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. The Graham Bond Quartet, captured live in London´s legendary Klooks Kleek club consisted of Bond (on sax), McLaughlin, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist on acoustic bass and Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist on drums. They played a unique brand of modern jazz, which combined the elements of Free Jazz, Swing and Rock (or Rhythm And Blues), basically inventing the Jazz-Rock Fusion on the fly. Although the music is predominantly Jazzy, Baker´s rhythmic approach, Bond´s phrasing and McLaughlin´s scales all included clear Rock innuendos. During the period separating the first session and the second one, Bond formed the Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, which recorded a couple of LPs in 1965 ("The Sound Of 65Find albums with this title" and "There`s A Bond Between UsFind albums with this title") and practically fell apart after Bruce and Baker left to form CreamFind albums by this artist. The second recording features another interim quartet with Bond (this time on organ), saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, Bruce (who double-gigged between Cream and some Jazz activities) and the young and upcoming drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. The music recorded during this session is already full-fledged Fusion, with Jazz being tightly incorporated with Blues, Rhythm And Blues and Rock, similar to the patterns perfected during the Organization days. Some of the material appears on the Organization recordings, other was new, but the overall quality is of course everlasting. Shortly after this recording Heckstall-Smith and Hiseman left Bond to join John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and later formed the mighty ColosseumFind albums by this artist. In retrospect this album, although relatively little known by Jazz-Rock enthusiasts, is a holy grail of the genre and an essential piece of any serious music collection. Unavailable for years, the CD recent reissue is a major contribution to preservation of this superb musical achievement. Essential stuff!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | LUKASZ BOROWICKI ~ PEOPLE, CATS & OBSTACLES
FOR TUNE 0037 (Barcode: 5902768701371) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2014
This is the debut album by young Polish Jazz guitarist / composer Lukasz BorowickiFind albums by this artist, recorded in a trio format with Polish bassist Mariusz PrasniewskiFind albums by this artist and Danish drummer and frequent collaborator with Polish musicians Kasper Tom ChristiansenFind albums by this artist. Both Borowicki and Prasniewski studied at the Academy of Music in Odense (Denmark), as did many of Poland´s young Jazz musicians in recent years. The album presents nine original compositions recorded by the trio and a bonus track which is a solo guitar piece, all composed by Borowicki.
The music is a surprising amalgam of many different elements, which create a unique musical perception, fascinating and absorbing right from the onset. Borowicki has a distinctive guitar sound, which is raw and distorted, somewhat similar to early John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist´s efforts. The melodies, or rather melodic fragments, are quirky and unstable, changing rapidly and continuously, and yet producing an overall coherent compositional whole. The same applies to the frequent tempo changes and improvisational approaches, which move within one piece between tightly knit interplay and completely free form, spacey improvisation. The overall effect of this unusual music is definitely fascinating and completely fresh. Considering the fact that guitar is the most popular instrument on this planet, it takes a truly ingenious musician to create something new with it, such as Borowicki manages to do in this case.
The leader gets a most sympathetic support from his cohorts; Prasniewski is a wonderfully melodic player, who against all odds manages to keep the surreal paste of change this music demands, supporting the guitar every inch of the way. Christiansen, who is already a well seasoned musician and a superb composer on his own, is an ideal partner completing the trio. He plays sparingly and unobtrusively, but is right where he is needed at all times.
In conclusion, this is a first class debut effort, which shows an enormous potential and talent that Borowicki represents which hopefully will mature and develop further in time. As a result of this album, he immediately becomes a worthy candidate to become one of the top Jazz guitar players in his country, a position which at the moment is rather sparingly populated.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | LUKASZ BOROWICKI ~ SONGS WITH RHYMES
NOT ON LABEL ~ POLAND ~ Avant-Garde Jazz
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2017
This is the third album by Polish Jazz guitarists / composer Lukasz BorowickiFind albums by this artist and his second recording with a trio he recorded his debut with, which also includes bassist Mariusz PrasniewskiFind albums by this artist and Danish drummer Kasper Tom ChristiansenFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine original compositions, all by Borowicki and is beautifully recorded with wonderful aural atmosphere.
The music on this album is meant to present the acoustic side of Borowicki´s guitar playing and as a result is indeed very delicate, intimate and low volume. The rhythm section offers a remarkable support to this acoustic effort, playing also very subtly, but clearly in sync with the leader and most inventively. Therefore as a trio effort, this album is absolutely fascinating and one of the best of its kind I have come across lately.
However, Borowicki evidently steps here towards much more Free Jazz and Improvised Music than on his earlier recordings. In my review of his debut album I mentioned that his playing reminds me of early John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist recordings; the music here is much closer to what Derek BaileyFind albums by this artist had to offer. Nothing wrong with that of course, except for the fact that Borowicki is stepping away from the majority of Jazz listeners and entering the Avant Garde niche, with everything that such a move implies.
As a result there are almost no melodic themes here, at most some melodic fragments, which is a pity considering Borowicki´s fine composing talent, which he displayed on his earlier recordings.
Overall this is a bold step for this young and talented musician, which is obviously a part of his search towards his musical self-discovery. People expecting traditional guitar playing will be definitely disappointed, but Improvised Music / Free Jazz lovers should find this album an exquisite example of trio cooperation and elegant European non-aggressive and yet completely individualistic music creation.
| | Updated: 17/12/2018Posted: 26/05/2017 | CD-R 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | PETE BROWN / BATTERED ORNAMENTS ~ A MEAL YOU CAN SHAKE HANDS WITH IN THE DARK / MANTLE-PIECE
BGO 489 (Barcode: 5017261204899) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2000
1st and 2nd albums by UK group Battered OrnamentsFind albums by this artist, led (on the first album only) by poet / musician Pete BrownFind albums by this artist. Brown was one of the most colorful and interesting figures on the UK scene in the 1960s, a part of a larger group of friends, which included Jazz, Rock and Avant-Garde musicians like Graham BondFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and even John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. He took active part in the Jazz & Poetry experimental movement leading a group called First Real Poetry BandFind albums by this artist, which was combining elements of Blues, Avant-Garde Rock, Jazz and Jazz-Rock. Of course Brown is mostly remembered for his co-writing of many songs with Jack Bruce, which were part of the CreamFind albums by this artist repertoire, as well as on Jack´s early solo albums. Brown continued his musical adventured by forming the band Battered Ornaments with George KhanFind albums by this artist on saxophone, Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist on guitar, Charlie HartFind albums by this artist on organ and a great Jazzy rhythm section. The band recorded just one, absolutely brilliant album (the first of the two presented here), with Brown singing the lead vocals, something he tried to avoid but did anyway, and Heckstall-Smith playing on two tracks. The music is absolutely stunning, a great example of the early UK Jazz-Rock, which is completely different of course from the later Jazz-Rock Fusion that most US bands pursued. After recording the first album the personality clash and rivalry between Brown and Spedding resulted in Brown leaving the band (and forming immediately a new one called PibloktoFind albums by this artist). The band, now led by Spedding, recorded a second album, using material written by Spedding and Brown earlier. Although not as brilliant as the first, it is still a great example of early Jazz-Rock and includes basically the same lineup as the first album less Brown and Hart. Together these two albums are a must to any fan of the early British Jazz-Rock scene and include some of the most ingenious music ever made. A must!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PETE BROWN / PIBLOKTO ~ THINGS MAY COME AND THINGS MAY GO... / THOUSANDS ON A RAFT
BGO 522 (Barcode: 5017261205223) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2001
1st and 2nd albums by UK group PibloktoFind albums by this artist, led by poet / musician Pete BrownFind albums by this artist. Brown was one of the most colorful and interesting figures on the UK scene in the 1960s, a part of a larger group of friends, which included Jazz, Rock and Avant-Garde musicians like Graham BondFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and even John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. He took active part in the Jazz & Poetry experimental movement leading a group called First Real Poetry BandFind albums by this artist, which was combining elements of Blues, Avant-Garde Rock, Jazz and Jazz-Rock. Of course Brown is mostly remembered for his co-writing of many songs with Jack Bruce, which were part of the CreamFind albums by this artist repertoire, as well as on Jack´s early solo albums. Brown continued his musical adventured by forming the band Battered OrnamentsFind albums by this artist, and later on when the band kicked him out, he formed Piblokto, recording two albums with that group. The band included guitarist Jim MullenFind albums by this artist, organist Dave ThompsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Roger BunnFind albums by this artist (later replaced by Steve GloverFind albums by this artist) and drummer Laurie AllenFind albums by this artist (later replaced by Rob TaitFind albums by this artist). The group was popular mostly in Europe (France especially), where they toured extensively. The music is absolutely superb, a mixture of Jazz, Rock, and Psychedelic influences, being a great example of the early UK Jazz-Rock, which is completely different of course from the later Jazz-Rock Fusion that most US bands pursued. Together these two albums are a must to any fan of the early British Jazz-Rock scene and include some of the most ingenious music ever made. A must!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | STANLEY CLARKE ~ JOURNEY TO LOVE
EPIC 468221 (Barcode: 5099746822125) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975
3rd album by one of the most important Jazz / Fusion players / composers Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist. A brilliant instrumentalist on both the acoustic and electric basses, Clark first came to the attention of Fusion fans as a member of Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist’s Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist, where he played some of the most innovative bass parts of the genre. His ability to switch between the acoustic and electric bass and his incredible musicality and sense of rhythm made him the world’s leader on his instrument, to be surpassed later only by the mighty Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist (please note Clarke plays fretted bass guitar and Pastorius fretless bass guitar, which are quite different in many ways). This album is considered his best release ever. With a stellar cast including Chick Corea, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, Lenny WhiteFind albums by this artist, George DukeFind albums by this artist, Steve GaddFind albums by this artist and David SanciousFind albums by this artist, Clarke presents a series of brilliant compositions, each one in a different style and instrumentation. The absolute highlight of the album is the acoustic trio (with Corea and McLaughlin) dedicated to John Coltrane. Also the “Concerto For Jazz / Rock Orchestra”, performed with a brass section, is an amazing piece of classic Fusion. This is an absolute must for any Fusion / good music fan.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | STANLEY CLARKE ~ THE COMPLETE 1970S EPIC ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979312227 (Barcode: 886979312227) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 - 1979 Released: 2012
American bassist / composer / bandleader Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist is one of the iconic figures of the Jazz-Rock Fusion explosion, which swept the world in the late 1960s / early 1970s. His distinctive and virtuosic bass lines have set standards, which are followed to this very day, with very few bass players being able to play as technically perfect as he always did and even fewer to be as inventive, groundbreaking and innovative. Although primarily associated with Fusion and the electric bass guitar, Clarke always was (and still is) an exceptional acoustic bass player with a superb Jazz technique and sensitivity.
Clarke first came to prominence as a member of the first lineup of the legendary Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist´s ensemble Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist, where his bass lines shaped the music as significantly as Corea´s keyboard wizardry. Clarke stayed with the original band for several years and remained a Corea´s friend and collaborator in the decades that followed. In parallel to his work with Return To Forever, Clarke started a solo recording career, which produced some of Fusion´s and later also Funk´s greatest moments.
Following the release of his debut solo album on PolydorFind albums on this label, he switched to the NemperorFind albums on this label label (currently owned by SonyFind albums on this label) and later on to the EpicFind albums on this label label (a subsidiary of ColumbiaFind albums on this label). He recorded five albums for Nemperor between 1974 and 1979, the last of which was a live double LP. In the 1980s and early 1990s his albums were released on Epic. This Box Set includes all the five albums released on Nemperor and as a bonus also a live album recorded during Clarke´s band tours in 1976-1977, which was released only in 1991.
Of course the list of names of the musicians, who play alongside Clarke on these albums, reads like an encyclopedia of American music of that period. To mention just a few: keyboardists Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, George DukeFind albums by this artist, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, David SanciousFind albums by this artist and others, guitarists Bill ConnorsFind albums by this artist, Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and others, drummers Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist, Steve GaddFind albums by this artist, Lenny WhiteFind albums by this artist, Gerry BrownFind albums by this artist and others and a myriad of other musicians. Clarke composed almost every note played here, with very few exceptions, and the music is absolutely marvelous and ass-kicking, as it was at the time it was recorded.
Clarke was often criticized for utilizing his vocals on some of these albums, which of course was not one of his fortes, but since the vocals are relatively scarce and in retrospect really not that bad, that point of criticism id completely insignificant in view of the majestic content of the music contained herein.
Every bass player today, consciously or subconsciously, directly or indirectly is influenced one way or another by what Stanley Clarke played over the years, and this Box Set is a great way to celebrate his talent. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 7 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CLARK-HUTCHINSON ~ A=MH² (EXPANDED EDITION)
SUNBEAM 5048 (Barcode: 5051125504817) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2008
1st album (well not really but more about this later) by UK duo Clark-HutchinsonFind albums by this artist, or Andy ClarkFind albums by this artist and Mick HutchinsonFind albums by this artist, two multi-instrumentalists and prominent figures on London’s late 1960s Psychedelic and Blues scene. Mick, a superb guitarist, plays also some keyboards and Andy plays anything from drums, percussion, keyboards, flute and saxophone. Listening to this extraordinary album it’s really difficult to believe that two musicians, using rather primitive studio technology available at the time, were able to create such massive and complex sound. But sound aside, the music is what makes this album such an extraordinary experience. Based on modal and Indian music and using the slowly developing raga as a model, they create a most amazing amalgam of Jazz, Psychedelic and World Music, which at the time was revolutionary and pioneering. Hutchinson’s lengthy guitar solos are a prime example of jazzy improvisation and one of the first Jazz-World Fusion attempts, which will be later perfected by John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist in ShaktiFind albums by this artist. The overall contemplative nature of the music and the imaginative ornamentation by additional (overdubbed) instruments create a mystical atmosphere, which is seldom found on other album. This expanded edition also includes the real first album by Clark-Hutchinson, recorded just a couple of months earlier, but rejected by their record label, which remained unreleased until now. Although based on Blues as a guiding model (both Andy and Mick loved the Blues), it follows much the same “working model” of the two musicians overdubbing several instruments, although a bass player and a drummer were used on these sessions. The resulting album is at least as good as any other UK Blues album recorded at the time by John MayallFind albums by this artist, Savoy BrownFind albums by this artist, etc., with Mick’s scorching guitar solos providing the icing on the cake. With extensive liner notes and great sound quality this is a well-deserved reissue of one of the most groundbreaking musical projects of the late 1960s. A true blast from the past!
| | | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHICK COREA & STEVE GADD BAND ~ CHINESE BUTTERFLY
STRETCH 888072042186 (Barcode: 888072042186) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2017
This is a 2CD studio album recorded by a band co-led by two legendary American musicians: keyboardist / composer Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist and drummer Steve GaddFind albums by this artist, who recorded together many times before, but never co-led a band together. They are joined by guitarist Lionel LouekeFind albums by this artist, saxophonist / flautist Steve WilsonFind albums by this artist, Cuban bassist Carlitos Del PuertoFind albums by this artist and Venezuelan percussionist Luisito QuinteroFind albums by this artist. Vocalist Philip BaileyFind albums by this artist joins them on one tune. The album presents eight tracks, six composed by Corea, one co-composed by him and Loueke and one is a John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist composition.
The music is all highly melodic, with a strong Latin tinge, dominated by typical Corea’s Fusiony compositions and lengthy improvisations, which allows the excellent musicians to show their chops. Three of the tracks last for well over quartet of an hour and document the “jam like” atmosphere of this recording session.
Most of the music is new, written by Corea especially for this album, but a new and much extended version of the classic “Return To Forever” song, which features Bailey, is certainly one of the highlights of this album. In some respect this album could be regarded as a preamble to the “Antidote” album recorded a couple of years later and features some of the musicians present on this album.
Overall, this a great and highly rewarding album, which offers the familiar Corea’s musical explorations between Fusion and Jazz-World Fusion, to which he returned in the few last years of his life. Superb compositions and performances, which never fail to bring a smile. Highly recommended!
| | Updated: 13/04/2022Posted: 13/04/2022 | CD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHICK COREA / JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ FIVE PEACE BAND LIVE
CONCORD 231397 (Barcode: 888072313972) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2008 Released: 2009
Pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist and guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist are both icons of contemporary music. Their activities in the last 40 years span such a vast spectrum of music that only a very few other musicians on this planet can be counted their equals. Corea and McLaughlin both played a crucial role in the revolutionary Miles DavisFind albums by this artist ensemble that gave us "In A Silent WayFind albums with this title" and "Bitches BrewFind albums with this title", and then continued to explore and revolutionize Jazz and Fusion, each with his own numerous ensembles. Although they have performed over the years occasionally as a duo, no formal recordings were issued of these meetings (some of their playing can be heard on the momentous McLaughlin Montreux Box Set). Therefore the forming of the Five Peace BandFind albums by this artist, initiated by Corea after his last Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist reunion tour, is a first time the two Masters play together in a regular band. Of course one immediately assumes that the band should sound as a combination of Return To Forever and Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, but since the early days of Fusion are long gone, Five Peace Band´s concept is completely up to date and modern. With saxophonist Kenny GarrettFind albums by this artist, bassist Christian McBrideFind albums by this artist and drummer Vinnie ColaiutaFind albums by this artist the band is an incredible music making machine, offering the listener an orgy of sound, beautiful expanded improvisations and sophisticated compositions. Most of the material was written by Corea and McLaughlin, but they also pay tribute to their former boss Miles Davis by including some of his music, with another ex-Davis band member Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist present as a guest. There is little need to recommend this album flamboyantly, as any serious music lover surely understands the magnitude of this recording. This is a dream come true and an absolutely essential piece of music!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 2 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | LARRY CORYELL ~ LAST SWING WITH IRELAND
ANGEL AIR 641 (Barcode: 5055011700413) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2021
This is the last studio recording by the iconic American guitarist / composer Larry CoryellFind albums by this artist, captured just a few months before his untimely passing. The music was recorded in Ireland in an intimate trio setting with local bassist Dave RedmondFind albums by this artist and drummer Kevin BradyFind albums by this artist. The album presents six tracks, four of which are standards and two are originals co-composed by the trio members.
Coryell plays with incredible vigor and passion and his virtuosity is unblemished, which means that this album is a delightful farewell with his sublime and unique talent.
Coryell did not receive the due respect for his revolutionary role as a Godfather of American Jazz-Rock Fusion, starting with his absolutely amazing work with Gary BurtonFind albums by this artist in the 1960s and later his own groups, like The Eleventh HouseFind albums by this artist and duets / trios with other great guitarists, like Philip CatherineFind albums by this artist, Paco De LuciaFind albums by this artist, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and others. His extraordinary recording legacy includes over fifty albums as a leader and close to double that number as a sideman. In retrospect he remains as one of the greatest Guitar heroes of all time.
I have been fortunate to meet Larry Coryell many times, as well as his first wife Julie CoryellFind albums by this artist, who wrote one of the first books about Fusion and was a great photographer.
Overall, this is a delightful classic Jazz guitar album, which should delight every true guitar lover, even though it is not particularly innovative. It is, however, simply delightful!
| | Updated: 02/11/2021Posted: 02/11/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | RUDOLF DASEK ~ JAZZ ON SIX STRINGS
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 771 (Barcode: 8595026677128) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the debut album as a leader by legendary Czech Jazz guitarist / composer Rudolf DasekFind albums by this artist, recorded in 1970 and produced by my great friend Antonin MatznerFind albums by this artist (now sadly departed), which finds him in a trio setting with bassist Vincenc KummerFind albums by this artist and drummer Ivan SmazikFind albums by this artist. On a couple of tracks bass guitarist Lubos NyvltFind albums by this artist is added. The album presents nine tracks, five of which are original compositions by Dasek and four are Jazz standards.
All the music is beautifully remastered and the album comes with extensive liner notes, extremely well researched and full of discographical information, sadly only in Czech language (which works fine for me, but probably less so for other enthusiasts who also might be interested).
Although Dasek recorded earlier on with various Czechoslovak ensembles, including SHQFind albums by this artist and Jazz CellulaFind albums by this artist, this album has put him in the focus of attention as one of the greatest Jazz virtuosos of the time, easily equaling famous "classic" Jazz guitarists active since the 1950s on, but also standing shoulder to shoulder with the pioneering European contemporaries like John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Philip CatherineFind albums by this artist, Christian EscoudeFind albums by this artist and others. Numerous album releases followed in time, many of which were duo recordings, which appears to be his favorite modus operandi, and all of which are masterpieces.
The music is absolutely astounding, both the interpretations of the standards and the original compositions, superbly performed by the trio / quartet, with elegance, flair and typical European elegance presiding at the helm.
The virtuosic performances by Dasek are heaven on earth for guitar lovers and the musical environment where every single note played relates perfectly to the notes played before and after, which always characterizes Dasek´s performances, is a rare treat. The album sounds completely contemporary and is perfectly valid today, despite the fact that it was recorded half a Century ago, easily deserving the "timeless classic" status.
For fans of European Jazz and its history, reissues of this kind are an absolute must, and the fact that this music is available on CD for the first time makes it a wonderful treasure. Brilliant stuff!
My personal thanks to Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, the owner of Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label, for his friendship and the incredible job he is doing to keep this music alive!
Side Note
Since the 1950s Czechoslovakia had a highly developed Jazz scene, certainly in proportion to its population, which included many successful ensembles and even Big Bands, as well as Jazz clubs, festivals and publications, all this in spite of state censorship and political limitations. The similar situation existed since the 1960s as far as Rock (including Progressive Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion) was concerned, resulting in many excellent, interesting and innovative ensembles.
The music was relatively well documented by the three state owned record labels: SupraphonFind albums on this label (founded in 1927), PantonFind albums on this label (founded in 1968) and OpusFind albums on this label (founded in 1971 and based in Bratislava, created on the base of Slovak division of Supraphon). Following the "Velvet Revolution" in 1989, the state owned record labels were privatized, with Supraphon dominating the local market.
However, Supraphon was quite reluctant as far as exploring its vast back catalogue is concerned, and this is where the small independent Indies Happy TrailsFind albums on this label Records, a reissue label dedicated to the preservation of the recorded legacy of Czechoslovak music, owned and run by the devoted enthusiast / historian Jaromir KratochvilFind albums by this artist, founded in 2007, comes in. Over the years the label released a plethora of brilliant music, reissuing long deleted LPs and extensively exploring the archives in search of bonus material.
The quest of Indies Happy Trails is similar to what the GADFind albums on this label Records label, run by Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist, is doing for Polish music, with similar consistency and praiseworthy dedication.
| | Updated: 01/03/2020Posted: 29/02/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THAT`S WHAT HAPPENED 1982-1985: THE BOOTLEG SERIES VOL.7
COLUMBIA 194398638522 (Barcode: 194398638522) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1982 - 1985 Released: 2022
This is the 7th installment of the “Bootleg Series recordings by American trumpeter / composer / bandleader / visionary Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, released by ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records. It presents previously unreleased material by Davis, captured during the period following his return to recording and performing after a five years long hiatus (1975-1980). It follows the previous installment in the series, which was released in 2018 and offers 3 CDs of studio and live material.
CD1 presents material recorded during the “Star PeopleFind albums with this title” sessions in late 1982 and early 1983, with saxophonist Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, trombonist J.J. JohnsonFind albums by this artist, guitarist Mike SternFind albums by this artist, bass guitarist Marcus MillerFind albums by this artist, drummer Al FosterFind albums by this artist and percussionist Mino CineluFind albums by this artist. Additionally, two tracks are from the “DecoyFind albums with this title” sessions from 1983, with guitarist John ScofieldFind albums by this artist, bass guitarist Darryl JonesFind albums by this artist, drum programing by Robert Irving IIIFind albums by this artist and Cinelu.
CD2 presents material recorded during the “You`re Under ArrestFind albums with this title” sessions between January 1984 and January 1985, with saxophonist Bob BergFind albums by this artist, Scofield or John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Irving (on keyboards), Jones, Foster or Vince Wilburn, Jr.Find albums by this artist on drums and percussionist Steve ThorntonFind albums by this artist.
CD3 presents a live recording from July 7, 1983 captured at the Montreal Jazz Festival, with Scofield, Evans, Jones, Cinelu and Foster.
The music is all by Davis, except for the interpretation of a Cindy LauperFind albums by this artist song, and illustrates the transition period between the decades of recording for Columbia, with the last three albums on that label, and the explosive career of the “new” Miles Davis following his signing with Warner Bros.Find albums on this label and the release of “TutuFind albums with this title”, and the last years of his life (1986-1991).
Overall, as usual with any archival material by Miles Davis, the music is absolutely Godly, stressing again his unshaken position as the greatest Jazz musician of all time. Although the music does not reveal any surprising elements, it affirms his status, and for every Davis’ follower on this planet is absolutely essential.
| | Updated: 31/12/2024Posted: 26/10/2022 | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THE CELLAR DOOR SESSIONS 1970
COLUMBIA 93614 (Barcode: 827969361429) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2005
It would be incredibly presumptuous to write any kind of serious musical review of this music in a limited format, so I’ll only stick to the very basics here. The music contained in this set was recorded live on December 16-19, 1970 in a dinky little Washington, DC club called “Cellar Door”. Why would Miles play in such a venue at all remained a mystery (one of many around Miles’ life and work), as he could easily sell out any concert hall in the US. In retrospect it now becomes obvious that Miles simply wanted a sort of limited exposure live recording opportunity to record his new band, which was yet another change of direction in his career. Following the groundbreaking Bitches BrewFind albums with this title and Jack JohnsonFind albums with this title sessions, Miles decided to strip down his ensemble to the bare minimum and concentrate on a more rock / funk oriented sound. Miles was always intensely attentive to everything that was happening around him musically and his frequent performances at the Fillmore venues exposed him to scores of rock bands, which enjoyed immense popularity with the crowds. Miles concluded that he could easily play music, which would be as acceptable to the rock crowds as the rock music they were accustomed to, hell he could do it better! This sessions prove that he was absolutely right. For the new group Miles kept Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist on electric piano, since Keith was already at ease with rock oriented material he played in his earlier stints. He also kept Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist on drums, as John could rock better that any of the rock drummers around, considering his immense talent and technique. The saxophone spot was taken by Gary BartzFind albums by this artist (Steve GrossmanFind albums by this artist was having serious drug-related problems), a young and extremely capable player who sounded remarkably similar to John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, but felt comfortable with the funky rhythms. The biggest change (and surprise) was the bass spot, which Miles assigned to the tender MotownFind albums on this label (yes – the Jackson 5Find albums by this artist!) electric bassist Michael HendersonFind albums by this artist. Henderson’s pulsating funky rhythms set the essence for these sessions, not only serving as a rock solid foundation upon which the musicians are free to develop their improvisations, but also being the glue that keeps the music together. The quintet of Davis, Bartz, Jarrett, Henderson and DeJohnette play on all the 6 CDs in this set. The Brazilian percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist joins the quintet on the 3rd day (expanding it to a sextet) and is heard on 4 CDs. Moreira’s contribution to Miles’ music deserve a chapter in itself - in these sessions he skillfully adds color and polyrhythmic accents, always with taste and precision. On the last day the group is extended to a septet with John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist joining in on his fire blazing electric guitar, like there is no tomorrow. This truly turns the whole ensemble into the “greatest fucking rock band you ever heard”, to quote Miles. McLaughlin is in his usual great form, which means he is just way ahead of anything else done at that time on guitar. What about Miles himself? Let me just say that he plays some of his best notes ever on these sessions, full of vigor, passion and inspiration. What else can I say here? This music is beyond comparison, beyond criticism, beyond all the bullshit people say about music… If you didn’t hear it you simply don’t exist - musically that is ;).
| | | CD 6 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THE COMPLETE JACK JOHNSON SESSIONS
COLUMBIA 86359 ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970
This is the 7th chapter in the ColumbiaFind albums on this label’s epic series of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist Box Sets, which is a monumental reissue project of recordings by the most important Jazz musician of the 20th century. Recorded between February and June 1970 this monumental document defines “Electric Jazz” – anything recorded since, be it Jazz, Rock or Fusion, has its roots here. These almost five hours of music remained mostly unreleased till this set was issued, as the original A Tribute To Jack JohnsonFind albums with this title album contained less than 10 % of the music included herein. Although a few other “cooked” albums included snippets of this music (Live-EvilFind albums with this title, Get Up With ItFind albums with this title, DirectionsFind albums with this title and Big FunFind albums with this title) they were never available in their full form. By the time this material was recorded Miles’ approach to creating music changed dramatically: he was more of a captain giving the crew a general direction as to where he wanted to go, ratter that a navigator concerned with the exact details as to the course taken. An enormous amount of freedom was granted to the stellar collection of participants (Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist – keyboards, Steve GrossmanFind albums by this artist, Bennie MaupinFind albums by this artist, Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist – saxes, Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, Ron CarterFind albums by this artist, Michael HendersonFind albums by this artist – bass, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Sonny SharrockFind albums by this artist – guitar, Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, Gene PerlaFind albums by this artist – drums, Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist, Hermeto PascoalFind albums by this artist – percussion) and for the first time Miles promoted John McLaughlin to be the primary soloist, much more dominant than his trumpet. McLaughlin of course was up to the job and presents some incredible guitar playing, firmly establishing the electric guitar as the leading instrument in instrumental music for the years to come. His fearless ventures into the uncharted territory of Fusion and even Rock would become a beacon for generations of guitar players, a source of inspiration and a vital learning tool. The unrestrained, almost jam-like atmosphere of the sessions inspired all the participants to search for the best they could achieve and the resulting music is simply phenomenal. This is visionary and groundbreaking, Promethean and pioneering musical creation, an absolute must to any Jazz fan that takes his music seriously..
A special note to collectors:
The initial release of all the Miles Davis Box Sets in this reissue series is packaged in an exquisite metal-bound (except chapter 5 which is cardboard-bound) frame housed in a hard cardboard CD-sized slipcase (except for chapters 1 & 8 which have a metal slipcase). Once the initial release is sold out, the CDs are repackaged in a tall-box digipack book format. Naturally the tall-box issues have a much lower retail price tag. All the initial release CD-sized issues become priceless collectors’ items in time.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 5 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THE COMPLETE ON THE CORNER SESSIONS
COLUMBIA 06239 (Barcode: 886970623926) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 - 1975 Released: 2007
This is the 8th (and apparently the last) chapter in the ColumbiaFind albums on this label’s epic series of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist Box Sets, which is a monumental reissue project of recordings by the most important Jazz musician of the 20th century. Recorded between March 1972 and May 1975 this the music includes everything Miles recorded for Columbia before his 5 years of retirement from recording due to health problems, before resuming his career in 1980. The inventory is pretty amazing: 4 years, 16 sessions, 21 musicians and over 6 hours of groundbreaking music, which although rarely given credit for it, changed to face of music for years to come. Incorporating Funk, Fusion, World Music, Rock, Soul and of course Jazz, this music re-defined the basic conceptions of the musical universe. Anything recorded later on this planed could be traced back to some extent to these sounds, be it Hip-Hop, Rock, Electronic and Ambient Music, House, and Dance, including of course contemporary Jazz and Fusion. The music is completely groove oriented, with very little (and often without) melody, with a loose and completely atmospheric jamming over a repetitive and hypnotic rhythms, created masterly by bassist Michael HendersonFind albums by this artist, continuing the direction initiated on The Cellar Door Sessions 1970Find albums with this title. Miles on trumpet, Dave LiebmanFind albums by this artist, Carlos GarnettFind albums by this artist and Bennie MaupinFind albums by this artist on saxes, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist and Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist on keyboards, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Reggie LucasFind albums by this artist and Pete CoseyFind albums by this artist on guitars, Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and Al FosterFind albums by this artist on drums and quite a few other players contribute to this heavenly music, under the Master’s spiritual leadership. The music included here appeared in various edited forms on the albums: On The CornerFind albums with this title, Big FunFind albums with this title and Get Up With ItFind albums with this title, but most is heard here for the first time. It is almost impossible to describe how far out and pioneering this music is. It presents not only a completely new sound and approach to performing music, but also a new way to create music as a flow of the subconscious creative process. Over 30 years after it was recorded, it still sounds revolutionary and poignant, as it undoubtedly will continue to sound in the days to come. I can’t imagine anybody who calls himself a music lover not to own this music and listen to it periodically to recharge his or her emotional batteries. Beyond essential!
A special note to collectors:
The initial release of all the Miles Davis Box Sets in this reissue series is packaged in an exquisite metal-bound (except chapter 5 which is cardboard-bound) frame housed in a hard cardboard CD-sized slipcase (except for chapters 1 & 8 which have a metal slipcase). Once the initial release is sold out, the CDs are repackaged in a tall-box digipack book format. Naturally the tall-box issues have a much lower retail price tag. All the initial release CD-sized issues become priceless collectors’ items in time.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 6 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PACO DE LUCIA / AL DI MEOLA / JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ THE GUITAR TRIO
VERVE 533215 (Barcode: 731453321526) ~ SPAIN ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1996
14 years after recording their last acoustic guitar album together, Paco De LuciaFind albums by this artist, Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist and John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist - three guitar geniuses - get together again to deliver a follow up. This album is every bit as good as their previous encounters. There is no evidence whatsoever of weariness, on the contrary – age seems to agree with them, refining their musical instincts. As usual, the music was all composed by the players themselves, except one bossa-nova, which gets a superb treatment. The format of duos and trios seems to be a perfect vehicle for all three players to express their outstanding abilities and they explore it to the extreme. There is really not much to say here, except recommend this album to every music lover – satisfaction guaranteed.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | PACO DE LUCIA / JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ PACO AND JOHN – LIVE AT MONTREUX 1987
EAR MUSIC 4029759132035 (Barcode: 4029759132035) ~ SPAIN ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1987 Released: 2016
This is a 2CD live album documenting the 1987 appearance by the guitar duo of Spanish guitar virtuoso Paco De LuciaFind albums by this artist and British guitar wizard John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist at the Montreux Jazz Festival. The two recorded a couple of revolutionary guitar trio albums in the early 1980s together wit American guitarist Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist, which achieved worldwide acclaim and were superb examples of the Jazz-World Music Fusion. Almost a decade after the concert captured here (in 1996) the trio reunited to record their final album together. The album presents nine tracks (one a medley of two compositions), two solo (one each) and then seven duo performances, which include original compositions by De Lucia and McLaughlin, a Jazz standard, and one composition each by Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist and Egberto GismontiFind albums by this artist. The music is excellently recorded and allows all the subtle nuances of the two guitars to be heard perfectly.
The music and the performances are of course Godly by any standard, as these two musicians are perfectly bonded not only by their sublime talents but also a deep personal friendship and affinity. After years of playing together they created a wonderful amalgam of their individual playing styles and idiosyncrasies, which separately are almost unbridgeable, into a perfect unity. The music bridges genres and styles, cultural influences and playing techniques, which of course is quite common today but was less obvious at the time.
It is important to understand that this music goes far beyond showing off individual talents, and is first and foremost and attempt to bring people together. It is also completely universal and although obviously immediately appealing to lovers of the guitar, in is able to penetrate the heart of every true music connoisseur. The passing time made it vividly clear that this music is absolutely timeless and should be cherished forever!
| | Updated: 01/08/2020Posted: 01/08/2020 | CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | AL DE MEOLA / JOHN MCLAUGHLIN / PACO DE LUCIA ~ SATURDAY NIGHT IN SAN FRANCISCO
EAR MUSIC 4029759177913 (Barcode: 4029759177913) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1980 Released: 2022
This is a sensational archival album, which presents for the first time the material by the legendary trio of American guitarist Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist, British guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and Spanish guitarist Paco De LuciaFind albums by this artist, recorded at the Saturday concert following the Friday concert that produced one of the most iconic Jazz-World Fusion and Jazz Guitar albums “Friday Night In San FranciscoFind albums with this title”. The album presents seven tracks, six of which are original compositions by the trio members and one is by Brazilian guitarist / composer Luiz BonfaFind albums by this artist.
None of the compositions on this album appear on the original album, which is even more spectacular. Four of the tracks present performances by the trio and three are solo performances by each of the trio members, which is also quite different from the original album, which offered three duets and two trio performances, one recorded a few months later in the studio. In short this new album is a completely new addition to the original album, and a wonderful “missing link” to the music the trio played at the time, i.e. during the 1980 concert tour.
The music is of course everything one expects from these three Maestros, an incredible amalgam of styles and passions, which puts together Jazz, Fusion and Flamenco into one steaming pot, which works.
Overall, this music should have been released at the time as part of a double album with the original material, but better late than never, as long as it is not lost in the vault. Essential and classic stuff, which deserves to be heard and learned from. With De Lucia no longer with us, this is a tribute to his memory. Absolutely not to be missed!
| | Updated: 15/08/2022Posted: 15/08/2022 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | AL DI MEOLA ~ CONSEQUENCE OF CHAOS
TELARC 83649 (Barcode: 089408364921) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2006
There are quite a few parallels between guitar Masters Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist and John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. Each has a very unique and personal style of course, but both alternate between the electric and acoustic version of their instrument and both ventured deeply into wold music influences (Di Meola absorbing Flamenco and Tango and McLaughlin exploring Indian music) during their extensive careers, returning to the Jazz-Rock Fusion (which was their Alma Matter) periodically. And of course they recorded together several times. This album takes Di Meola back to his roots, which are of course his work with Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist’s Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist. Returning to his electric guitar and with Chick as guest (playing some fiery solos), the atmosphere is reminiscent of the RTF hay days. All the superb participating musicians (Steve GaddFind albums by this artist – drums, John PatitucciFind albums by this artist – bass, Barry MilesFind albums by this artist – keyboards and others) perform beautifully and the music (written entirely by Di Meola) flows with grace and elegance. Although strong world music influences are still present, the Fusion sound is predominant and unmistakable. It is heartwarming to see that Di Meola manages to produce such a consistently excellent music over the years, for which he deserves praise and respect. The usual TelarcFind albums on this label exquisite sound quality is an additional factor making this a truly excellent album. Highly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | AL DI MEOLA ~ HEART OF THE IMMIGRANTS
WOUNDED BIRD 9052 (Barcode: 664140905221) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1993 Released: 2005
Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist’s amazing talents as composer and guitarist have been with us since the early 1970s, when he captured the world’s attention as the guitarist of Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist. After leaving RTF in late 1976 Di Meola started to record a series of solo albums, alternating between acoustic and electric guitar. The first years of his solo career were dedicated to the Fusion genre, but gradually he incorporated many other musical elements in his work, such as classical and world music. He also cooperated with John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and Paco de LuciaFind albums by this artist in a series of acoustic guitar trio recordings, which rank amongst the most revered albums of such type. This beautiful album presents Al’s on acoustic guitar with a group called “World Sinfonia”, playing superb instrumental music influenced by world music elements, the Argentinean tango in particular. In fact this is a second album in which Di Meola pays tribute to the Argentinean genius Astor PiazzollaFind albums by this artist. Although only four of the included tracks were composed by Piazzolla, the rest of the music, composed by Di Meola, is close in spirit to the Master’s legacy. The bandeneon virtuoso Dino SaluzziFind albums by this artist is another world famous group member taking part in these recordings and his contribution help immensely to create the authentic tango atmosphere. The entire album is a masterpiece of musical creation, exciting, emotional and incredibly beautiful all the way through. One would have to be completely deaf to stay indifferent to this enchanting music.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GEORGIE FAME ~ THE TWO FACES OF FAME / THE THIRD FACE OF FAME
BGO 708 (Barcode: 5017261207081) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1967 - 1968 Released: 2006
Contrary to popular opinion, British singer / songwriter / keyboardist Georgie FameFind albums by this artist was born to be a Jazz singer. Although his early career developed during the fabulous late 1960s and was mostly visible on the Pop scene, with several hit singles, his albums were another story entirely. Backed up by the cream of the crop of British Jazz musicians, Fame delivered his superbly sensitive vocals with elegance, always spiced with a dash of the typical British humor. Looking at the list of musicians playing on these two albums one can find such names as John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist (guitar), Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist (drums), Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist (piano), Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist (bass), Peter KingFind albums by this artist (sax), Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist (trumpet), Lynn DobsonFind albums by this artist (sax) and many more – a list that reads like a who´s who of the burgeoning late 1960s UK Jazz scene. Fame tackles quite a few vocal standards on these album, many of the great American songbook classics as well as some newer songs by British composers. Overall these two albums are a great example of how great music lasts forever and the 40 years that passed since they were recorded seem to make it even better, given the shape of contemporary music mayhem. Absolutely delightful!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOE FARRELL ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS
SONY 888750636829 (Barcode: 888750636829) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 - 1975 Released: 2015
This Box Set collects five of the six albums recorded by brilliant American flautist / saxophonist / composer Joe FarrellFind albums by this artist and released between 1970 and 1975 on the legendary CTIFind albums on this label Records label. They are: his debut as a leader and first album "Joe Farrell QuartetFind albums with this title", the second "OutbackFind albums with this title", the fourth "Penny ArcadeFind albums with this title", the fifth "Upon This RockFind albums with this title" and the sixth "Canned FunkFind albums with this title". His third album "Moon GermsFind albums with this title" was separately reissued on CD in 2001 by SonyFind albums on this label. Farrell joined the first incarnation of Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist in 1972 and took part in the recording of their first two legendary albums. The music presented on these five albums falls quite neatly into two separate categories: the first two albums are complex modern Jazz / Jazz-Rock Fusion and even include some Free Form moments, whereas the next three albums are Groove / Funk oriented.
The first album ("Joe Farrell Quartet") is especially noteworthy, as it is one of the most important and beautiful documents of the era. Farrell´s quartet, which also included pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, Bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist (all from Miles DavisFind albums by this artist electric band) is augmented by the presence of guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist on two tracks, turning the resulting quintet into a mighty power of Nature. It is worthwhile to compare these tracks with McLaughlin´s debut album "ExtrapolationFind albums with this title" or the Jack BruceFind albums by this artist album "Things We LikeFind albums with this title", which also features McLaughlin. Together these three a.m. albums contain some of the most important and powerful music ever made.
The second album places Farrell alongside Corea again, but this time with bassist Buster WilliamsFind albums by this artist and legendary drummer Elvin JonesFind albums by this artist, with whom Farrell recorded a series of superb albums for the Blue NoteFind albums on this label label between 1968 and 1971. It presents superb modern Jazz and Fusion, played by Masters of the trade. Together with the third album ("Moon Germs"), which is not present in this Box Set, which features Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist on piano, Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist on bass and again Jack DeJohnette on drums, and of course his numerous recordings as a sideman, Farrell established his position as one of the leading figures on the US scene.
The remaining three albums document the transition Farrell made from modern Jazz / Fusion into Jazz-Funk, which is characterized by more emphasis on melodic content and Funk / Groove rhythmic patterns. Although many of Farrell´s fans had a hard time getting used to this new musical direction, his work in that genre was always top notch, with impeccable musicianship and wonderful compositions. He cooperated with several top players specializing in that specific area, like guitarist Joe BeckFind albums by this artist, bassist Herb BushlerFind albums by this artist and others. In retrospect these albums are classics of the genre, sound superbly fresh today and honestly had very little true competition by anybody else over the years.
Farrell, who sadly died in 1986, aged just 48, was definitely an exceptional player and composer, who contributed immensely to American Jazz by constantly searching for new way of expression, ignoring genre constrains and mainstream thinking. This Box Set is an essential listening to every Jazz / Fusion fan on this planet.
Side Note
The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty.
The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations.
In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!
| | Updated: 05/04/2024Posted: | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JERRY GOODMAN / JAN HAMMER ~ LIKE CHILDREN
WOUNDED BIRD 0430 (Barcode: 664140043022) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2006
Only album by this duo, formed following the demise of John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist’s Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist Mk. I in 1973. Jerry GoodmanFind albums by this artist and Jan HammerFind albums by this artist were the founding members of MO and played on the seminal three first albums by the group. This album is quite different from the fiery pyrotechnics used in MO and concentrates on presenting a gentler and more personal side of both musicians. Hammer composed most of the music for this album (with Goodman contributing on three tracks), which varies a lot stylistically between Funk, Fusion and Progressive. Between the two of them they play a myriad of instruments, with Hammer handling all keyboards and percussion and Goodman playing electric and acoustic violins and guitars. Hammer shines on the moog synthesizer, his main solo instrument, and Goodman displays again his amazing violin technique, which resembles his work with FlockFind albums by this artist (before MO). The album lost none of its charm in time and is still a prime example of well-played and sophisticated Fusion music. Since Goodman’s recording heritage is rather sparse, it’s great to see this album back in circulation. Recommended!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GORZYCKI & DOBIE ~ NOTHING
REQUIEM 086 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2014 Released: 2015
This is the third and last part in a triptych of duo recordings by Polish drummer / composer Rafal GorzyckiFind albums by this artist (see his duo albums with Sebastian GruchotFind albums by this artist and Kamil PaterFind albums by this artist), this time with British guitarist / composer Jonathan DobieFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven original pieces co-composed by Gorzycki and Dobie.
In the last decade or so Gorzycki firmly established his position on the Polish scene as one of the most individual voices, amalgamating Jazz with contemporary Classical music, electronic and ambient influences and above all standing firmly as a symbol of uncompromising music creation. His work as a leader and member of such forward thinking ensembles as Sing Sing PenelopeFind albums by this artist or Ecstasy ProjectFind albums by this artist and his individual projects in duo, trio and quartet settings are all exceptional examples of individuality and excellence.
In many respects this duo album is a culmination of Gorzycki´s modus operandi, which presents a minimalistic and fragmented approach to melody and harmony, which often hints at some musical statements rather then expressing them in full, leaving it to the listener to connect the dots. Dobie is obviously an ideal partner and cohort in such circumstances, playing short fragments of rapid guitar fire, which reminds early improvising electric guitarists such as John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist or Jimmy HendrixFind albums by this artist and utilizing ancient fuzz and other sound devices. This retro sound combined with the modern approach creates an absolute stunning effect.
Of course, as in every other duo album, the interplay between the two partners is the essential ingredient of the entire project. Gorzycki´s seemingly endless palette of drums and percussion instruments and Dobie´s guitar pyrotechnics are perfectly suited for each other and their dialogs reach telepathic levels.
I am very glad that Gorzycki manages finally to achieve at least some recognition by the Polish musical "establishment", after years of being ignored and neglected beyond the small circle of his musical partners. Hopefully this recognition will enable him to create even more of his groundbreaking projects, to the delight of old and new fans. Visiting his personal web site will allow a glimpse at his huge achievements so far. This album is a must have for the many fans of the alternative Polish Jazz / contemporary music scene and is of course is highly recommended.
| | Updated: 19/01/2018Posted: | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | RAFAL GORZYCKI ~ PLAYING
FOR TUNE 0088 (Barcode: 5902768701951) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2015 Released: 2016
This is an album by Polish Jazz drummer / composer / bandleader Rafal GorzyckiFind albums by this artist, one of the most prolific, diverse and always unpredictable figures on the local scene. This time he presents a trio, which also includes guitarist Marek MalinowskiFind albums by this artist and electric bassist Wojciech WozniakFind albums by this artist, and which performs ten tracks entitled simply "Playing" part 1 to part 10, two of which were composed by Gorzycki, four were co-composed by all three trio members and four more were co-composed by the previous lineup of the trio which included bassist Patryk WeclawekFind albums by this artist.
The sound on an electric guitar trio immediately invokes associations with Jazz-Rock Fusion, and indeed this music has very close ties with Fusion, but encompasses a much wider stylistic variety than simply Fusion, including Improvised Music, Ambient and contemporary Chamber Music. With Gorzycki at the helm, this is hardly surprising, as his extensive recording legacy is characterized by its diversity and cross-genre explorations.
Although pre-composed and melody based to some extent, this music includes a lot of space and freedom, which allows for very creative playing by the trio members, which they use liberally; but in spite of all that freedom, the music remains quite "well behaved" most of the time, which makes it accessible to a wide range of listeners. Creating music of such intrinsic beauty and highly aesthetic value and yet making it sound "simple" is a real artistry, and Gorzycki deserves praise for managing to achieving such result.
Malinowski, who released his debut album as a leader ("AloneFind albums with this title") a year earlier, emerges as one of the most interesting new hopes of the Polish Jazz guitar players. His open and clean sound, which uses (almost) no electronic trickery, is very impressive and quite unique today in its straightforwardness. In many respects it brings back fond memories of the early Fusion days, when players like John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist were using a very similar sonic approach.
Wozniak, who has some past Fusion ties as well, plays very skillfully and precisely, which is exactly what is expected of him in this setting. He plays a cool "walking" pulsations when the music swings and atmospheric prolonged phrases when it moves into a more ambient environment. This modesty and respect towards ones partners is a most formidable quality in a musician.
Gorzycki is of course a Master drummer, a fact which requires no reinforcements, and indeed he plays very sparingly, cooperatively and relatively straightforwardly on this album, which is a very wise decision. When the music requires his input, he is always there and always at his best, but overall his playing on this album is primarily a part of the collective effort rather than claiming the role of a leader.
The album was excellently recorded at the RecPublica Studios and engineered by Lukasz OlejarczykFind albums by this artist, and offers a superb sonic quality, which will make high-end Hi-Fi enthusiasts extremely happy. But overall it is definitely one of the best Polish Jazz albums released so far in 2016, and hopefully will reach a wide circle of music lovers, as it is definitely capable of capturing the hearts of very many connoisseurs anywhere in the world. Respect!
| | Updated: 07/05/2016Posted: 07/05/2016 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAN HAMMER ~ MALINY MALINY
PROMISING MUSIC 44109 (Barcode: 602517845954) ~ CZECHOSLOVAKIA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2009
1st album by Czech pianist / composer Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, who would later become one of the cornerstone musicians of US Jazz-Rock Fusion movement as a member of John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist´s Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, as well as leader of his own groups. This live recording at the legendary Munich Domicile club, a meeting place of German and European Jazz scene for many years, is in many ways quite accidental. Hammer and his compatriot bassist George MrazFind albums by this artist (Jiri in Czech) were in Munich "in transit" actually heading for the US to join the Berklee College of Music in Boston, where they both received a scholarship. Of course they had been warmly received in Munich and gigged extensively waiting for the US trip to finalize. While there, the Soviet Block armies invaded their homeland in the infamous 1968 abrupt end of the "Czech Spring", one of the darkest moments of the Eastern-European history. Hammer and Mraz made the decision not to look back and moved to the US permanently, joining many other famous Czech musicians who were destined to build their career there, like Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist for example. This recording is Hammer´s debut, presenting him on acoustic piano and organ, playing a set of his original compositions in a trio format with Mraz on electric bass and resident Domicile drummer (originally from Netherlands, but mostly active in Germany) Cees SeeFind albums by this artist on drums. The most striking effect of this recording is not hearing the "early" Hammer, already a highly accomplished pianist at the time with extensive classical training, but his Jazzy approach, which in years was about to move to the background of his output, which I personally see as a great shame. The music is also very interesting, with Hammer combining many Eastern-European motifs with Jazz, like many other Eastern-European musicians did at the time, creating some of the most memorable tunes in the process (see parallel work of Polish Jazz musicians). This is definitely a great historical document of the era and one can only be grateful to Promising MusicFind albums on this label for unearthing and reissuing this lovely musical glimpse into the past. As usual, the remastering, sound quality, packaging and extensive liner notes are beyond reproach. Warmly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERBIE HANCOCK ~ MWANDISHI
WARNER BROS. 47541 (Barcode: 093624754121) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2001
Following his departure from the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist quintet, Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist established his own sextet, which would serve as his musical vehicle in the next step of his explorations. The sextet included Eddie HendersonFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Benny MaupinFind albums by this artist on bass clarinet and flute, Julian PriesterFind albums by this artist on trombone, Buster WilliamsFind albums by this artist on bass and Billy HartFind albums by this artist on drums.
Hancock recorded three revolutionary and visionary albums with this group, before changing his chameleon-like path again, this time into funk. These three albums were MwandishiFind albums with this title and CrossingsFind albums with this title released on Warner Bros.Find albums on this label and his ColumbiaFind albums on this label debut SextantFind albums by this artist. The extraordinary music present on these albums is the next step in the future of Jazz, the creation of a multi-genre Fusion, which “genetically spliced” Jazz with Rock, Funk and World Music, creating a new musical universe.
In fact one should see these recordings in the right perspective, comparing it to the music Miles Davis was creating (from Bitches BrewFind albums with this title onward) and his disciples: John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist with Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist and Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist with Weather ReportFind albums by this artist and Herbie Hancock with his sextet. All this music (created roughly at the same time) falls beautifully into place supplementing the big picture. Of course one should always credit it as much to its wonderfully talented creators as to their Mentor Miles Davis.
The music on Mwandishi is beautifully atmospheric. The unusually (for Jazz) long tracks (one over 21 minutes and the two others over 10 minutes long) leave plenty of space for group improvisation and generous solo space for all the musicians. Hancock sticks to the electric piano, by now mastering the instrument to perfection. He composed two of the tracks and Priester the remaining one. A few guest musicians, including SantanaFind albums by this artist’s percussionist Jose AreasFind albums by this artist and drummer Leon ChanclerFind albums by this artist contribute their input. This music can be heard time after time, revealing new emotions and hidden treasures every time. An essential classic!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | GARY HUSBAND ~ DIRTY & BEAUTIFUL VOLUME 1
ABSTRACT LOGIX 027 (Barcode: 700261307053) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2010
This is the first of two albums by British drummer / keyboardist / composer Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist recorded with a host of friends, all of which are superstars of British and international Jazz, Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion, like guitarists Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Robin TrowerFind albums by this artist, Steve HackettFind albums by this artist and Steve ToppingFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, violinist Jerry GoodmanFind albums by this artist and bassists Jimmy JohnsonFind albums by this artist, Steve PriceFind albums by this artist, Mark KingFind albums by this artist, Laurence CotileFind albums by this artist and Livingstone BrownFind albums by this artist. The various lineups perform twelve pieces, seven of which are original compositions by Husband and one is co-composed by him.
The music, as expected after reading the lineup, ranges from Rock via Fusion to Jazz, presenting a coherent picture of musical virtuosity and compositional elegance. In contrast to many other similar projects based on the same idea of recording an album with many superstars, which usually fail miserably to achieve any substantial musical value, this attempt works wonderfully from start to finish with no dull moments to spare. The stylistic variety and the different atmospheric vistas present a superb collage of intelligent and fascinating music, which is a pleasure to listen to.
As expected, the album is full of exceptional soloing. Husband keeps it all together with his dynamic and powerful rhythm drive, contributing a few keyboard solos on the way. The main point here is the mutual respect these stellar musicians have for each other, putting any competition and ego trips out of the way and concentrating on the final result. Husband turns out to be a wonderful catalyst here, able to create ad hoc lineups that sound as if they were playing together for ages.
In short this is not only Fusion heaven, but a comprehensive overview of the genre in the most open minded approach possible, which encompasses everything between Rock and Free Jazz. Husband´s openness towards similarly remote sub genres was always one of his most remarkable qualities. This is definitely a must for all Fusion lovers, but every connoisseur of good music should be able to enjoy this immensely!
| | Updated: 06/07/2016Posted: 06/07/2016 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | GARY HUSBAND ~ DIRTY & BEAUTIFUL VOLUME 2
ABSTRACT LOGIX 033 (Barcode: 700261344836) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2012 Released: 2012
This is the second of two albums by British drummer / keyboardist / composer Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist recorded with a host of friends, all of which are superstars of British and international Jazz, Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion, like guitarists Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Robin TrowerFind albums by this artist, Ray RussellFind albums by this artist, Wayne KrantzFind albums by this artist, Neil TaylorFind albums by this artist, Alex MachacekFind albums by this artist, Jimmy HerringFind albums by this artist and Mike SternFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Sean FreemanFind albums by this artist and bassists Jimmy JohnsonFind albums by this artist, Teymur PhellFind albums by this artist, Mark KingFind albums by this artist, Laurence CotileFind albums by this artist and Livingstone BrownFind albums by this artist. The various lineups perform eleven pieces, five of which are original compositions by Husband and one is co-composed by him.
The music on this set is less diverse stylistically and explores mainly the various possibilities of the Jazz-Rock Fusion idiom, with accents and variations influenced mainly by the presence of the different guitar players on these tracks. Each and every guitarist contributes his very personal stylistic nuances, presenting overall a wonderful kaleidoscope of guitar Fusion pieces. The melodic themes of all these pieces fit very well together, which turns this seemingly unconnected collection of pieces into a coherent album, which is a thrilling listening experience.
As on its predecessor, Husband plays drums and keyboards on the various pieces, always with great taste and his usual virtuosity. His drumming approach is another solidifying element of this entire collection, which again manages to sound like a complete pre-planned album as opposed to a random collection of tunes, in spite of such diverse lineups taking part in the proceedings.
As usual this is Fusion Heaven, not only because of the incredibly high level of individual performances, but mainly because it is all about music and not individual ego trips which often haunt Fusion to its death. Therefore I can only wholeheartedly recommend this album to all Fusion lovers, especially since really good Fusion albums are so incredibly scarce these days. Hats off, Maestro!
| | Updated: 09/07/2016Posted: 09/07/2016 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAZZ Q ~ ELEGIE (ELEGY) (EXPANDED EDITION)
GAD 045 (Barcode: 5901549197594) ~ CZECHOSLOVAKIA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 - 1976 Released: 2016
This is a reissue of the 4th album by the legendary Czechoslovak Jazz-Rock Fusion band Jazz QFind albums by this artist, led by keyboardist / composer Martin KratochvilFind albums by this artist, which also included guitarist Frantisek FranclFind albums by this artist, bassist Premysl FauknerFind albums by this artist and drummer Libor LaunFind albums by this artist. Several guest musicians also participated on selected tracks. The original album comprised of eight original compositions, all by Kratochvil, which are presented here in their remastered form on the first CD of the 2CD set. The second CD collects live recordings by the group, which were previously released on two festival compilations, a couple of radio recordings, which are previously unreleased and fourteen tracks which were recorded as a soundtrack to the movie entitled "Hriste", all also previously unreleased.
This album is undoubtedly one of the best Jazz-Rock Fusion albums ever recorded, not only behind the Iron Curtain, but worldwide. It offers the essence of the most advanced Fusion "spirit", which reached its apogee in the mid 1970s, defined by recordings by Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist (Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist), John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist (Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist), Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist (Weather ReportFind albums by this artist) and of course countless lesser known musicians, who contributed to the genre´s rapid development. Kratochvil and his Jazz Q ensemble managed to distill the Fusion elements and incorporate them within European aesthetics, which resulted in a much calmer and more lyrical form. Based on beautiful melodic themes, with solid harmonic structures and sophisticated expanded suite-like structures, this music is as good as Fusion ever got in its lifespan, with most of what has been offered under the genre´s banner later on was a sad imitation of the past.
Kratochvil´s brilliant compositions, combined with his virtuosic keyboards technique and deep musical sensitivity and elegance, are simply irresistible. Supported by an excellent team of band members and guests, each of whom contributed his own layer to the final result, he was able to create a masterpiece, which has a few rivals to this day and sound as good today as it did at the time it was released. It is definitely one of the most well aging Fusion albums out there.
The bonus material on this album is every step as good as the original album and offers a wonderful opportunity to get better and deeper acquainted with Kratochvil and his band at the time. The diversity and richness of his compositions is fully exposed here, and the fact that this music is finally available for us to enjoy is a miracle in every sense.
This album is an absolute must to every Fusion fan on this planet (and perhaps beyond), especially since at the time of its release most music fans living on the West side of the Iron Curtain were completely oblivious as to what was happening on the East side. Now is the time to finally discover what was missed. Essential stuff!
| | Updated: 13/01/2025Posted: 18/03/2017 | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAZZ Q ~ ZIVI SE DIVI
GAD 010 (Barcode: 5901549197105) ~ CZECHOSLOVAKIA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2013
This is a real treat! The Czechoslovak band Jazz QFind albums by this artist was always one of my favorites since the time they first arrived on the scene in the early 1970 and I loved their albums to bits. The band epitomized the Eastern European Jazz-Rock Fusion better than any other singular band of their time and had absolutely no competition, neither in their own country nor in any other Eastern European countries, although the competition was very fierce with some excellent Polish, Hungarian and other local bands. A few years ago the Czech SupraphonFind albums on this label label (which was a State monopoly during the Socialist regime when the group was active) released a wonderful Box Set, which included all the albums and some additional material Jazz Q recorded for the label. Those eight CDs spun on my player for weeks on end and I was blissfully happy to have the "complete" Jazz Q legacy at my disposal. But as we all know, nothing is ever truly "complete" as this CD proves and a beautiful piece of the puzzle was missing for all these years, now available at last.
Jazz Q were unique in every respect; the founder and principal composer keyboardist Martin KratochvilFind albums by this artist was an absolute genius, light-years ahead of everything that what was happening on the East European Fusion scene at the time and a musician that could easily stand shoulder to shoulder with the top movers and shakers of the worldwide Fusion scene, including the John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist´s Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, which was the model for his band. Kratochvil skillfully surrounded himself with other brilliant players, such as the ones appearing on this album: guitarist Frantisek FranclFind albums by this artist, saxophonist / violinist Jan MartinecFind albums by this artist, bassist Premysl FauknerFind albums by this artist and drummer Libor LaunFind albums by this artist. The band also featured the female vocalist (and Francl´s wife at the time) Joan DugganFind albums by this artist. All these musicians were virtuosi players, as is plainly evident to anyone listening to this album, and they were an ideal vehicle to present Kratochvil´s extraordinary music, which was often devilishly clever and complex.
This live recording presents Jazz Q performing nine pieces, five of which are Kratochvil´s original composition, one is credited to the entire band and the remaining ones are composed by Eddie HarrisFind albums by this artist, Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist and John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist respectively, which is hardly surprising again as these the names associated with Fusion at the time. All these composition receive as extended treatment, which allow lengthy improvisations by the principal soloists (guitar, keyboards and violin), which are all breathtaking. The music lost absolutely nothing of its vitality, sophistication and honesty over the years and emphasizes the fact that music of such quality is almost never played today, a sad reflection of our times.
If it was in my power, I´d make this album an obligatory part of every musical curriculum, hoping that it would open some people´s eyes and make them see the difference between senseless doodling and real music. Although criminally overdue, this is nevertheless a wonderful breath of fresh (albeit actually only well preserved) air, which makes life worth living.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | EERO KOIVISTOINEN ~ THE FRONT IS BREAKING
LOVE 188 ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1976
Apart from Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist, Eero KoivistoinenFind albums by this artist is probably the most well known Finnish jazz musician outside of his native country, due to his US residency and numerous recordings around the world. Deeply influenced by John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, he started his jazz adventure playing free jazz in cahoots with Edward Vesala and Pekka SarmantoFind albums by this artist as early as 1964 (which was about the time European free jazz was developing fiercely). Later on he moved away from free jazz and concentrated more on structured and carefully composed music. By the time this album was recorded, the jazz world was deeply involved in the Jazz-Rock Fusion explosion, following Miles DavisFind albums by this artist’ pioneering work in the field and later on groups like John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist’s Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist. Inspired by these developments, Koivistoinen decided to record a fusion album, for which he composed the music. The carefully assembled a dreamy combo to record the music, in which he gathered the best Scandinavian musicians from both the jazz and Progressive Rock genres, including Esko RosnellFind albums by this artist (drums) and Olli AhvenlahtiFind albums by this artist (piano) – Finland / jazz, Jukka TolonenFind albums by this artist (guitar – Tasavallan PresidenttiFind albums by this artist) and Pekka PohjolaFind albums by this artist (bass – WigwamFind albums by this artist) – Finland / Prog and Wlodek GulkowskiFind albums by this artist (keyboards) and Georg WadeniusFind albums by this artist (guitar – Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist) - Sweden (well Gulkowski was a Polish refugee) / Fusion. The result is surely one of the best, most sophisticated and musically uplifting fusion albums ever recorded and an absolute must for any fan of the genre. This was to be the only fusion album Koivistoinen would record, as he returned to “pure” jazz soon after.
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SLAWOMIR KULPOWICZ / SHUJAAT KHAN ~ LIVE
POLSKIE RADIO 1250 (Barcode: 5907812242503) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2013
This is the fourth installment in a series of releases documenting the recorded legacy of the great Polish Jazz pianist / composer Slawomir KulpowiczFind albums by this artist, most of which is released for the first time. Kulpowicz, who died prematurely in 2008 at the age of 56, was a victim of cancer. He was a member of groups led by the top Polish Jazz players like Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist and led / co-led his own ensembles like The QuartetFind albums by this artist, In-FormationFind albums by this artist and also cooperated with many other musicians over the years. He was an avid follower of John ColtraneFind albums by this artist´s music and kept in touch with Coltrane´s wife Alice ColtraneFind albums by this artist. Following his visit to India, Kulpowicz discovered Indian music and the spiritual aura of India, which became his own.
Kulpowicz visited India for the first time in 1978, when he was a member of the Zbigniew Namyslowski quartet, which played at the Jazz Yatra in Bombay. At the time he met and befriended a young sitar player Shujaat KhanFind albums by this artist, a descendant of the legendary Khan dynasty of sitar players since hundreds of years. That friendship lasted for almost thirty years as long as Kulpowicz was alive. They played together many times in Poland and abroad. In 1984 Khan visited Poland and recorded a live album with Kulpowicz for the PoljazzFind albums on this label label. The last time they played together was in 2006, when Khan visited Poland again, bringing with him the tabla player Arunangshu ChaudhuryFind albums by this artist. Kulpowicz invited the legendary Polish electric bassist Krzysztof ScieranskiFind albums by this artist and the four played together the music presented on this album, which was recorded live at Warsaw Philharmonic Hall.
Considering the fact that European (including Jazz) and Indian music exist on almost completely separate planes, the amalgamation of the two is extremely difficult to achieve. Except for a very few earlier attempts, most importantly the John MayerFind albums by this artist / Joe HarriottFind albums by this artist Indo-Jazz FusionsFind albums by this artist from the late 1960s / early 1970 and the John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist´s ShaktiFind albums by this artist a decade later, which were groundbreaking and musically just right, most of the other attempts resulted in failures. The music included on this album proves again, that the power of music transcends not only cultural borders but also thousands of years of musical tradition, enabling conversations between musicians originating seemingly from worlds apart.
The album comprises of just three extended pieces, two of which are about half an hour long and the third a quarter of an hour in duration. Named simply "songs", they are improvisations on melodic themes composed by Kulpowicz, performed wonderfully and in perfect harmony by all four musicians. Khan voices the melody at the onset of each piece and then the musicians take extensive solos in turn, with the full quartet returning to the melodic theme several times between the solos. Kulpowicz plays superbly and his solos are simply outstanding statements in the John Coltrane tradition, emphasizing the close relationship between Coltrane´s music and the Indian influences, which are often difficult to be discovered in his music, but come to wonderful realization when performed by Kulpowicz. There is so much passion in his playing that one suspect that his premonition as to his fate was already hunting him.
Khan, who since the early meeting with Kulpowicz achieved a Masterly status in Indian music, is an obvious sitar virtuoso and his solos are also breathtaking. Chaudhury and Scieranski, although a priori destined to fulfill a less dominant role in this music, perform both splendidly and their contributions are invaluable. Scieranski especially is to be prized, as his elegant and delicate bass tones manage to keep a perfect balance with his partners and the music which usually exist without the bass foundation so typical in European music.
The music is beautifully recorded and has an outstanding sound quality, especially in view of the fact that it is a live recording. Musically it is one of the finest examples I have ever come across of cross-cultural amalgam that work naturally as "God intended". An absolute must to World-Music enthusiasts and all connoisseurs of great music, regardless of genre, geography or cultural affiliation. Respect!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA ~ BIRDS OF FIRE
COLUMBIA 66081 (Barcode: 074646608128) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2000
2nd album by the phenomenal Fusion group Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, led by John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. Following the pattern laid down on the first album, this one soars and pulsates, shakes and stirs, like nothing before. Perfect performances and some great tunes make it another masterpiece. This music sounds today as fresh and revolutionary as it did when first released. A must!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA ~ INNER WORLDS
COLUMBIA 476905 ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975
6th album by Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist. By the time this one was recorded MO were in fact Mk III, a violin-less (for the first time) quartet. This means that John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist`s guitar is more prominent then ever, sharing solos with the new keyboards player Stu GoldbergFind albums by this artist. No other instrumental additions (strings, brass) are added here, bringing the clean fusion sound of the group to the max. Some great tunes and exceptional playing make this album as strong again as the first two releases. This was also the last MO album in the 70`s, with one more album to be released in the 80`s.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA ~ LIVE AT THE BERKELEY COMMUNITY THEATER NOVEMBER 9, 1972
RENAISSANCE 901 (Barcode: 630428090125) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2024
This is an archival live album by the original lineup of the legendary Fusion group Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, led by British guitarist / composer / bandleader John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, with American violinist Jerry GoodmanFind albums by this artist, Czech keyboardist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, Irish bassist Rick LairdFind albums by this artist and American (born in Panama) drummer Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist. The 2CD album presents nine lengthy tracks, taken form the group’s debut album “The Inner Mounting FlameFind albums with this title” and the not yet released at the time second album “Birds Of FireFind albums with this title”. All the music was composed by McLaughlin except one tune composed by Miles DavisFind albums by this artist.
The album is an incredible document of the way Mahavishnu Orchestra sounded and performed in their early days, with an obvious emphasis on improvisation. Two of the tracks are over twenty minutes in duration and another three well over ten minutes, which naturally allows for extensive soloing and group improvisation, which is rarely heard on the group’s studio albums. Although McLaughlin is at the epicenter of the performances, Goodman and Hammer get plenty of opportunity to show their improvising chops, as does the rhythm section of course.
Listening to the music over fifty years later plainly shows that the early 1970s were Fusion’s finest hours and everything since then was a slow degradation of the genre. McLaughlin freshly out of Miles Davis group is in absolute top form, and shows that he was the Godfather of Jazz-Rock Fusion after experimenting with improvisation while still living in UK and playing with Graham BondFind albums by this artist, Brian AugerFind albums by this artist and others and perfecting his stellar stylistics with Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist and Miles Davis. It’s worthwhile to mention that the two pivotal American Jazz-Rock Fusion groups of the time, Mahavishnu Orchestra and Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, had more European input / influence than American, which is hardly surprising.
Overall, this is an immensely important historical document of the Jazz-Rock Fusion genre, which shows one of the most interesting, innovative and influential bands, recorded live and at the full splendor of its powers. Despite the sound quality, which is not ideal, but allows a painless listening experience, the quality of the music is monumental and the retrospective opportunity to relive these moments is an absolute bliss, lasting for two whole hours! Essential!
| | Updated: 11/11/2024Posted: 11/11/2024 | CD 2 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA ~ MAHAVISHNU
WOUNDED BIRD 5190 (Barcode: 664140519022) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1984 Released: 2002
7th album by Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, recorded almost 6 years after the last album recorded by MO Mk. III (which means this was MO Mk. IV). In the years that passed between these two incarnations of MO John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist recorded several superb solo albums as well as trio albums with Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist & Paco De LuciaFind albums by this artist and of course led the ShaktiFind albums by this artist World-Fusion ensemble – a truly astonishing body of music. The reincarnation of MO served as a project to take another look at the Fusion genre and reflect the changes that the genre went through. McLaughlin selected some of the best Fusion players for his group, with veteran Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist on drums, Swedish bass player Jonas HellborgFind albums by this artist (with whom he recorded several duo and trio albums later), and two excellent representatives of the second generation of US Fusion players: Bill EvansFind albums by this artist (the other Bill Evans) on sax and Mitchell FormanFind albums by this artist on keyboards. The music on this album is very different from what the first six MO albums presented. It is much more laid-back, relaxed, serene and cerebral. McLaughlin plays with layers of electronic sounds produced by his guitar synthesizer and Forman’s keyboards, with plenty of space for Evans to solo. The rhythm section is also much looser and provides just the right setting for this music. If you are just into the Fusion pyrotechnics as displayed on the early MO albums, this one will be a disappointment, but if you are into great music, you will truly appreciate this one. The fact that AtlanticFind albums on this label never reissued this album proves how blind and deaf the Majors are and I am grateful to Terry from Wounded BirdFind albums on this label to bring this superb music back to life.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979303423 (Barcode: 886979303423) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 - 1973 Released: 2011
To make things perfectly clear before we go any further, this Box Set includes music recorded by the first version of the seminal ensemble Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, which lasted for about a couple of years between 1971 and 1973 and released three albums on ColumbiaFind albums on this label. Subsequent versions of Mahavishnu Orchestra continued to release albums on Columbia, but those are not included here and will hopefully be released in the future as a separate Box Set.
British guitarist / composer John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist arrived at the epicenter of the revolutionary Jazz scene quite by chance, via his old friend bassist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and his first American employer drummer Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist, which eventually led to McLaughlin joining the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist group and playing a crucial role in creating the groundbreaking music Davis was forging at the time. Prompted by Davis, while still a part of his group, McLaughlin formed his first ensemble, which in retrospect turned out to be one of the most extraordinary Jazz-Rock Fusion ensembles, setting an example so powerful that now, over forty years later, it still reverberates and is being used as a definition of the genre.
Mahavishnu Orchestra was extraordinary in many ways. It brought together musicians from many different countries and cultural backgrounds: American violinist Jerry GoodmanFind albums by this artist, Czech keyboardist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, Irish bassist Rick LairdFind albums by this artist and Panamanian drummer Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist, all virtuosi on their respective instruments. Such aggregation of talent is of course beneficial for the music, but can prove to be strenuous as far as personal relationships are concerned. Also, as far as the musical direction was concerned, McLaughlin and the ensemble had to create their own environment, as they were walking on a path, which was previously undiscovered.
McLaughlin had complete freedom while with Davis, which enabled him to stretch out and play expanded solos without any harmonic or rhythmic restrictions. Mahavishnu Orchestra was completely opposite: precise and sharp like a razor blade, with everything clicking on a beat and often following a neck-breaking speed. It is evident McLaughlin struggled with this new framework initially, only to conquer it gloriously. He composed almost all the music the ensemble played, with just an occasional contribution by Hammer, Goodman and Laird.
After recording and releasing the first two albums ("The Inner Mounting FlameFind albums with this title" and "Birds Of FireFind albums with this title"), the group recorded a third studio album, which was scrapped and laid hidden in the vaults, only to be released twenty six years later as "The Lost Trident SessionsFind albums with this title". A live recording at NY Central Park, called "Between Nothingness & EternityFind albums with this title", became the group´s third and last album recorded by the first lineup.
This Box Set includes the four a.m. albums and a bonus CD, which comprises of previously unreleased additional material from the live recording, which became the third album. There is also one earlier live recording added as a bonus track on the first album.
Of course this music is so brilliant and so important, that recommending it any further is simply superfluous. It is an absolute classic and a timeless ingredient of music history, which should be an essential cornerstone of any music collection.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA ~ THE LOST TRIDENT SESSIONS
COLUMBIA 65959 (Barcode: 074646595923) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 1999
Although released only in 1999, this in fact is the 3rd and last studio album of the original Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, recorded in London in 1973 and never previously released. It`s difficult to believe that the producer and the group decided to leave this momentous material unreleased, but it did happen, probably due to the fact that John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist was already planning the new version of the group. The material is as good as the 2 original albums.
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  | STEPHEN MCHALE ~ WEIRD GLITCHES
NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 5391524028102) ~ IRELAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2014 Released: 2014
This is the debut album by Irish guitarist / composer Stephen McHaleFind albums by this artist, currently residing in Valencia, like many other young European Jazz musicians who study and / or teach at the local branch of the Berklee School of Music. The album was recorded with fellow Berklee cohorts, like Polish keyboardist Piotr OrzechowskiFind albums by this artist, Spanish keyboardist Ricardo CurtoFind albums by this artist, Ecuadorian bassist Daniel ToledoFind albums by this artist, British drummer Joshua WheatleyFind albums by this artist and several others. The album presets eight tracks, seven of which are original compositions by McHale and one is a standard by Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, arranged by Toledo.
From the very first note of this album it becomes immediately apparent that McHale is a "different" guitarist, with a superb individual sound and attitude, which supported by his outstanding compositions create a rare musical experience in a world filled by hordes of wannabe guitar stars. Throughout the album McHale demonstrates an astounding diversity and versatility, which spans everything from melodic lyricism, to Avant-Garde distortion, a truly unusual phenomenon.
The seven original pieces are all fabulously crafted and fondly remind me of the compositions by John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, who is my favorite guitar composer (and player of course), because he is "thinking" about guitar and its myriad of sounds when he composes music. This is about the highest compliment I can pay to the young McHale, hoping to hear more of his creations in the not too distant future.
It is difficult to define this music stylistically; the electric guitar, keyboards and bass immediately suggest Jazz-Rock Fusion, but on the other hand there are not that many classic Fusion elements present here, so perhaps Electric Jazz is more appropriate. Regardless of the genre associations, this is simply some of the best music I have heard in quite a while in that particular aesthetic proximity and it is a blast to listen to from start to finish.
It must be said that McHale gets a truly outstanding support by the team of musicians, who play on this album, many of which are already stars of their own, like Orzechowski, who is taking the Polish Jazz scene by storm and who gets my unvarying support for his work since his first steps. But all the other players herein are simply a dream team in every respect, and without them this album would not be as perfect as it is.
To summarize, this is a most impressive and exhilarating debut release that deserves all the attention it can get, and one that surely will make many guitar enthusiasts extremely happy, if not immediately than surely in time, as it takes a while to absorb and appreciate the Artistry involved. Hats off!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ BELO HORIZONTE
WOUNDED BIRD 3619 ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
After his move to Paris in the early 80`s, McLaughlin recorded some wonderful, intimate albums there using mostly local (French) musicians, amongst them his companion Katia Labeque and some other excellent players. This 1981 albums comprises mostly of duets and trios with various musicians, including McLaughlin`s friend Paco DeLucia, the master of flamenco guitar with whom he recorded several times before and after.
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  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ BLACK LIGHT
ABSTRACT LOGIX 050 (Barcode: 700261424491) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 2015 Released: 2015
This is the third studio album by British Jazz guitar maverick John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, recorded with his 4th DimensionFind albums by this artist band, which includes British keyboardist / drummer Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist, Cameroonian bassist Etienne M`BappeFind albums by this artist and Indian drummer and konokol vocalist Ranjit BarotFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight original compositions, all by the leader.
The music is a unique mixture of Jazz-Rock Fusion with World Music elements, with a distinct Indian touch, but also Flamenco touches and other underlying elements. For McLaughlin followers this music combines everything he did in the five decades preceding this recording, including Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, ShaktiFind albums by this artist and his extensive solo work.
McLaughlin’s performances are brilliantly ageless, and his virtuosity seems to be completely unmindful of the years that passed by since he appeared on the scene. He has more energy and open-mindedness than guitarists half his age, which of course is hardly surprising to his many followers.
4th Dimension is a perfect band for McLaughlin, as it encapsulates all the elements he likes to have around when creating music. Husband supports McLaughlin most amicably, contributing some superb keyboard parts, and the rhythm section is like a good natured tornado, driving the music with enormous energy but at the same time being incredible precise and considerate.
Since this album was released in 2015, the popular rumors circulating until a couple of month before I write these words stated, that this is probably the last studio album by McLaughlin, but in July 2021 McLaughlin delightfully surprised all his followers with the release of the pandemic influenced new album entitled “Liberation TimeFind albums with this title”, which of course will get its own write-up here.
Overall, this is a brilliant album from start to finish, which continues the sublime recording legacy by the greatest guitarist that we were all blessed to hear in all time. Thank you John for a lifetime of music!
| | Updated: 04/09/2021Posted: 04/09/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ ELECTRIC GUITARIST
COLUMBIA 46110 (Barcode: 074644611021) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1979 Released: 1990
Solo album by John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. An exceptional effort summarizing not only his illustrous career in the 70`s, but in fact the entire jazz-rock fusion genre of that period. A pleiade of music stars and cohorts participate here in various ensembles (Jerry GoodmanFind albums by this artist, Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, a.m.o.), strating with a virtual Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist reunion, then moving to quartet, trio, duet and finally a McLaughlin solo guitar performance, which indicates his desire to perform as a soloist, realized later in the 80`s. Absolutely brilliant!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ INDUSTRIAL ZEN
VERVE 983932 (Barcode: 602498393284) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2006
Here it is at last – the finest album recorded in the 21st century! As lofty and far-fetched as this might sound, I’m ready to defend this statement for as long as it takes. This masterpiece by the legendary guitarist is a complex, multi-layered work of art. On one hand it is contemporary in every sense, especially as far as the overall sound is concerned, on the other hand however it is also an amalgam of John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist’s entire life as a musician, including every style, genre, direction and sound he played over the years, all of these synthesized into an integral new entity. For people familiar with McLaughlin’s illustrious career it should be quite easy to recognize the familiar elements: the spontaneity of the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist sessions, the fire of Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, the grace of his solo work on acoustic and electric guitar and of course his sensitivity and openness to other cultures as demonstrated in ShaktiFind albums by this artist and Remember ShaktiFind albums by this artist. Every note here is original and yet every note also has traces and links to something accomplished in the past. As far as the sound and instrumentation are concerned, these are completely new to McLaughlin. As the title of the album suggests, he uses plenty of electronics here – synth-guitar, keyboards and even drums are used to produce a plethora of both foreground and background electronic sounds, somewhat similar to the so-called “Industrial” sound used in Rock, but of course infinitely more complex and interesting. In addition, the album is very rhythmic and percussive, with two drummers and percussion players present simultaneously on most tracks. To achieve the maximal effect McLaughlin uses different players on various tracks and the list is most impressive: Mark MondesirFind albums by this artist, Vinnie ColaiutaFind albums by this artist, Dennis ChambersFind albums by this artist, Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist – drums; Otmaro RuizFind albums by this artist, Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist – keyboards; Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, Ada RovattiFind albums by this artist – sax; Matthew GarrisonFind albums by this artist, Hadrien FeraudFind albums by this artist – bass; Zakir HussainFind albums by this artist – tabla; Shankar MahadevanFind albums by this artist – vocals. This superb group of musicians supports their Master with love and devotion, which is evident, every step of the way. Another very interesting aspect of this album is that it seems McLaughlin is paying homage to the greatest Fusion ensemble in history – Weather ReportFind albums by this artist. Two of the tracks are explicitly named after WR members: “For Jaco” (Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist) and “Wayne’s Way” (Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist) but also the entire sound and feel of the album reflects very closely the feel of WR albums. I had a distinct feeling as if listening to a new album by an expanded version of WR including guitar. Perhaps something that was meant to happen but never did (i.e. WR playing with McLaughlin) finally materializes here? Fusion Karma? Whatever the Gods intended is besides the point here; one thing is sure: to create such divine music McLaughlin surely had to have a measure of godly intervention / inspiration. Bless you John for giving us such a wonderful musical gift. You do make life endurable again with your beacon clearly showing the direction to ships sailing the oceans of musical ennui.
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  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ LIBERATION TIME
ABSTRACT LOGIX 065 (Barcode: 700261486185) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Funk Fusion
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2021
This an album by iconic British guitarist / composer / bandleader John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, recorded during the Covid-19 pandemic with many musicians around the world using today’s possibilities to make music together “remotely”. The musicians include British keyboardists / drummer Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist, bassist Sam BurgessFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Julian SiegelFind albums by this artist, American drummer Vinnie ColaiutaFind albums by this artist, Cameroonian bassist Etienne M`BappeFind albums by this artist, Indian drummer and konokol vocalist Ranjit BarotFind albums by this artist and others. The album presents seven original compositions, all by McLaughlin, two of which are short solo piano pieces played by him.
Despite the rumors about retirement, McLaughlin proves to the world that he still is the undisputable numero uno out there, despite being almost eighty years young. His notes are as sharp and precise as ever and his compositions as exciting as one can wish for. The music sounds familiar, like Mother’s food, something that one is never tired of, but is amazingly fresh and energetic, with the album flowing swiftly with never a dull moment.
The album rises some pretty grim reflections, as far as Fusion is concerned, given that the person who basically was one of the genre’s pioneers in the mid-1960s, is still on the very top of the crest, as if nothing happened the fifty-five years that passed by since. I’d even go as far as saying that if one owns all his recordings as leader and sideman, one does not miss anything else as far as Fusion is concerned.
Overall, this is an excellent album in every respect and a great addition to McLaughlin’s recording legacy, which easily represents the Fusion genre in its full glory. Praying for more albums to come…
| | Updated: 03/11/2021Posted: 22/10/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ LIVE @ RONNIE SCOTT`S
ABSTRACT LOGIX 058 (Barcode: 700261457000) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2017
This is a live album by iconic British guitarist / composer / bandleader John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and his 4th DimensionFind albums by this artist quartet, which includes British keyboardists / drummer Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist, Cameroonian bassist Etienne M`BappeFind albums by this artist and Indian drummer and konokol vocalist Ranjit BarotFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine original compositions, all by McLaughlin. The material includes three tracks from the last studio album at the time “Black LightFind albums with this title” and earlier compositions.
The music is a unique mixture of Jazz-Rock Fusion and other elements. For McLaughlin followers this music combines everything he did in the five decades preceding this recording, including Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist and his extensive solo work. The live setting allows for extensive soloing, which offers many hair-raising moments and proves that McLaughlin is still very much the Boss, leaving his many disciples far behind.
McLaughlin’s performances are brilliantly ageless, and his virtuosity seems to be completely unmindful of the years that passed by since he appeared on the scene. He has more energy and open-mindedness than guitarists half his age, which of course is hardly surprising to his many followers.
4th Dimension is a perfect band for McLaughlin, as it encapsulates all the elements he likes to have around when creating music. Husband supports McLaughlin most amicably, contributing some superb keyboard parts, and the rhythm section is like a good natured tornado, driving the music with enormous energy but at the same time being incredible precise and considerate.
Overall, this is a brilliant album from start to finish, which continues the sublime recording legacy by the greatest guitarist that we were all blessed to hear in all time. Thank you John for a lifetime of music!
| | Updated: 03/11/2021Posted: 03/11/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ MOLOM: A LEGEND OF MONGOLIA (SOUNDTRACK)
VERVE 731452903426 (Barcode: 731452903426) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995
This is an album by British Jazz guitarist / composer John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, which collects the music he recorded for the soundtrack to the movie of the same title. The album presents twenty-two short tracks, fifteen of which are original compositions by McLaughlin, which he performs on acoustic and electric guitar, with synthesizer background. Indian percussionist Trilok GurtuFind albums by this artist plays on selected tracks. The remaining seven tracks are traditional Mongolian songs, performed by various local artists.
The music is absolutely gorgeous, with beautiful melodic / lyrical themes, quite unusual in McLaughlin’s repertoire, brilliantly performed, as expected. Other tracks offer the more familiar Jazz-World Fusion stylistic, performed with the usual virtuosity and skill.
Overall, this is an almost completely and criminally ignored album in McLaughlin’s recorded legacy. McLaughlin’s numerous fans will find here some of the most beautiful music he ever wrote, as well as blood-curdling performances, which make this album a must in every serious collection of his recordings. Probably not easy to find, but definitely worth the effort to close a gap in one’s collection!
| | Updated: 09/07/2024Posted: 09/07/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ MONTREUX CONCERTS
WARNER MUSIC SWITZERLAND 9701 (Barcode: 5050466970121) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 - 1999 Released: 2003
This monumental Box Set (17 CDs!) is a collection of live recordings by John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and his various ensembles at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland between 1974 and 1999. 25 years of McLaughlin’s brilliant career are summarized here in a continuous stream of mind-bugging musical brilliance and diversity. The exceptionally warm response and rapport between the musicians and the audience (which is so typical of the Montreux Festival) and the brilliant sound quality turn this set into a dream-come-true for every McLaughlin fan on earth. The various McLaughlin’s groups captured here are: Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist Mk. II (with Jean-Luc PontyFind albums by this artist and Gayle MoranFind albums by this artist), ShaktiFind albums by this artist, One Truth BandFind albums by this artist, Mahavishnu Orchestra Mk. IV (with Bill EvansFind albums by this artist), Free SpiritsFind albums by this artist, Heart Of ThingsFind albums by this artist and Remember ShaktiFind albums by this artist. Also included are duets with Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, Paco De LuciaFind albums by this artist and Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist. McLaughlin plays acoustic and electric guitar and the guitar synthesizer, all of them with his usual eloquence and elegance. All this is an ocean of music, crossing genres like Fusion, Jazz and World Music, always brilliantly performed and highly inspiring. The genius of John McLaughlin as a player, composer, bandleader and visionary artist is omnipresent here from the first note to the very last. Although this set is relatively expensive, buying it is money well spent, probably better spent than any other recorded music you can get. Absolutely essential!
| | Updated: 07/01/2022Posted: | CD 17 Box Set Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ MUSIC SPOKEN HERE
WOUNDED BIRD 3723 ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1983
After his ferrocious experiments with Fusion (Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist) and World Music (ShaktiFind albums by this artist), by the early 80`s McLauglin settled in Europe again (Paris to be exact - where he lived with his companion, the wonderful pianist Katia LabequeFind albums by this artist, who also plays on this album). This album captures a return to more jazzy surroundings, based mostly on the interplays between guitar and the two keyboards players. Bass gives the additional rhythm basis and there are no drums! This is most elegant, intimate and wonderful music one can imagine, always fresh and rewarding.
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  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ NOW HERE THIS
ABSTRACT LOGIX 037 (Barcode: 700261359557) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2012 Released: 2012
This is the second studio album by iconic British guitarist / composer / bandleader John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and his 4th DimensionFind albums by this artist quartet, which includes British keyboardists / drummer Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist, Cameroonian bassist Etienne M`BappeFind albums by this artist and Indian drummer and konokol vocalist Ranjit BarotFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight original compositions, all by McLaughlin.
The music is a unique mixture of Jazz-Rock Fusion with World Music elements, with a distinct Indian touch, but also Flamenco touches and other underlying elements. For McLaughlin followers this music combines everything he did in the five decades preceding this recording, including Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, ShaktiFind albums by this artist and his extensive solo work.
McLaughlin’s performances are brilliantly ageless, and his virtuosity seems to be completely unmindful of the years that passed by since he appeared on the scene. He has more energy and open-mindedness than guitarists half his age, which of course is hardly surprising to his many followers.
4th Dimension is a perfect band for McLaughlin, as it encapsulates all the elements he likes to have around when creating music. Husband supports McLaughlin most amicably, contributing some superb keyboard parts, and the rhythm section is like a good natured tornado, driving the music with enormous energy but at the same time being incredible precise and considerate.
Overall, this is a brilliant album from start to finish, which continues the sublime recording legacy by the greatest guitarist that we were all blessed to hear in all time. Thank you John for a lifetime of music!
| | Updated: 26/10/2021Posted: 26/10/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ QUE ALEGRIA
VERVE 837280 (Barcode: 042283728028) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1991 Released: 2003
A beautiful album by the John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist Trio, with percussionist extraordinare Trilok GurtuFind albums by this artist and bass player Dominique Di PiazzaFind albums by this artist (Kai BeckhardFind albums by this artist plays bass on two of the nine tracks). McLaughlin switches masterfully between the acoustic guitar and guitar synthesizer according to the desired mood and his partners play along with virtuosity and elegance. The music covers a wide range of genres, from blues to strong world music influences. McLaughlin wrote most of the music on the album, with Gurtu and Di Piazza contributing one track each. This is a true showcase of sophisticated and invigorating music creation, which is timeless and precious. A case of “less is more”, where the silence is as important as the sound. Beautifully recorded in the famous Ludwigsburg Studio (in South Germany), where also many ECM albums were recorded. Brilliant!
| | Updated: 09/07/2024Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ THE BOSTON RECORD
ABSTRACT LOGIX 042 (Barcode: 700261397085) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2014
This is a live album by iconic British guitarist / composer / bandleader John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and his 4th DimensionFind albums by this artist quartet, which includes British keyboardists / drummer Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist, Cameroonian bassist Etienne M`BappeFind albums by this artist and Indian drummer and konokol vocalist Ranjit BarotFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine original compositions, all by McLaughlin. The material includes a couple of tracks from the last studio album at the time “Now Here ThisFind albums with this title” and earlier compositions.
The music is a unique mixture of Jazz-Rock Fusion and other elements. For McLaughlin followers this music combines everything he did in the five decades preceding this recording, including Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist and his extensive solo work. The live setting allows for extensive soloing, which offers many hair-raising moments and proves that McLaughlin is still very much the Boss, leaving his many disciples far behind.
McLaughlin’s performances are brilliantly ageless, and his virtuosity seems to be completely unmindful of the years that passed by since he appeared on the scene. He has more energy and open-mindedness than guitarists half his age, which of course is hardly surprising to his many followers.
4th Dimension is a perfect band for McLaughlin, as it encapsulates all the elements he likes to have around when creating music. Husband supports McLaughlin most amicably, contributing some superb keyboard parts, and the rhythm section is like a good natured tornado, driving the music with enormous energy but at the same time being incredible precise and considerate.
Overall, this is a brilliant album from start to finish, which continues the sublime recording legacy by the greatest guitarist that we were all blessed to hear in all time. Thank you John for a lifetime of music!
| | Updated: 30/10/2021Posted: 30/10/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ THE HEART OF THINGS
VERVE 539153 (Barcode: 731453915329) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1997 Released: 1997
Since the late 1960’s John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist’s career enfolded like a continuous success story, moving from one musical hilltop to another: recording with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, leading the Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, world music excursions with ShaktiFind albums by this artist, etc. – all remarkable achievements. Keeping a position “in the lead” for so many years is never easy, but McLaughlin manages to deliver an amazingly consistent high quality output time after time with elegance and grace. This album is no exception and presents the genius player / composer at his best again. Listening to this album raises almost immediately an attempt to compare the music and the group of musicians playing it to the Mahavishnu Orchestra. Although never formally called by that name, it is indeed a direct continuation of the work McLaughlin did with Mahavishnu about 20+ years earlier – electric Fusion. Of course this group is more mature, slightly more jazz oriented, and definitely much more relaxed and laid back, all for the good. Not that the fire and passion of the original Mahavishnu wasn’t fantastic – it definitely was, but it often ventured into moments of havoc and confusion, which are completely absent here. McLaughlin uses on this recording a set of seasoned and experienced players: saxophonist Gary ThomasFind albums by this artist (one of the most talented players of the new generation and the jazziest player in this group), keyboards player Jim BeardFind albums by this artist and drummer Dennis ChambersFind albums by this artist, both veteran fusion players and finally the youngest member – Matthew GarrisonFind albums by this artist on bass (son of the legendary bass player Jimmy GarrisonFind albums by this artist from John ColtraneFind albums by this artist’s quartet). McLaughlin composed all the music on this album, and the result should be equally appealing to both jazz and fusion fans. Highly recommended!
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  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ THE HEART OF THINGS - LIVE IN PARIS
VERVE 543536 (Barcode: 731454353625) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1998 Released: 2000
This is a live companion album to the studio recording of the same name. Recorded during a tour that followed the release of the studio album, this album complements the studio recording perfectly, as there is very little parallel materiel on the two. Only three of the tunes present on the studio album are played here, and as usual they get a completely different treatment, which of course is the essence of live recordings. The rest of the material consists of earlier compositions by John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. The group is almost identical to the one which recorded in the studio, except for keyboards player Otmaro RuizFind albums by this artist (who replaces Jim BeardFind albums by this artist) and the presence of percussionist Victor WilliamsFind albums by this artist (who was only a guest on the studio album). The musicians perform splendidly, with the lengthy tunes leaving plenty of space for individual players to solo extensively. There is not a dull moment here, with enough inspiration, professionalism and talent to satisfy even the harshest critics. Definitely worth having.
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  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ THIEVES AND POETS
EMARCY 801075 (Barcode: 602498010754) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2003
John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist is not only the world’s finest guitar player, but surely also the most versatile one. Throughout his illustrious career he played almost in every conceivable jazz-related genre between free jazz, Jazz-Rock Fusion, mainstream jazz, Jazz-World Fusion and so on. This gorgeous album opens yet another area for his musical achievements – the marriage of classical music and jazz or Jazz-Classical Fusion. The contents of the album can be divided into two parts. First comes a title piece – a splendid suite for acoustic guitar and orchestra (over 26 minutes long in 3 parts), which presents McLaughlin accompanied by the Deutsche KammerphilharmonieFind albums by this artist (with Renato RivoltaFind albums by this artist conducting). The music shows McLaughlin’s skills as a composer of contemporary music, based on the European romantic tradition. It is passionate and elegant, as one might expect from McLaughlin and quite a revelation for many of his admirers. The second part of the album consists of four jazz standards performed here in a very special guitar arrangement with McLaughlin accompanied by guitar based classical Aighetta Quartet. As these four standards have been mostly associated with legendary jazz pianist (Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist and Gonzalo RubalcabaFind albums by this artist) McLaughlin presents them as homage to these jazz Giants. This is a very personal album, delicate and subtle, requiring a most attentive listening and deserving repetitive exploration. Essential musical experience!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN / AL DI MEOLA / PACO DE LUCIA ~ PASSION, GRACE & FIRE
PHILIPS 811334 ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Two years after recording their immensely successful live album Friday Night In San FranciscoFind albums with this title, the three guitar geniuses - John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist and Paco De LuciaFind albums by this artist - gathered to record a studio album, which reflects again their supernatural ability to improvise together in both the duo and trio formats. One could hardly find a better description for this music than the title of this 1982 album, which says it all. Their ability to exchange hot licks, as well as compliment each other by providing elegant background for the respective solos is truly phenomenal. The music is entirely acoustic of course and it is all composed by the three participants. There is a definite influence of Spanish, Flamenco and Gypsy folk motifs, strong jazzy feel and incredible musicality. They truly play with pleasure to please the listener, who should be able to discover new layers of intricate phrases with each repeated listening. A true classic!
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  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN / JIMMY HERRING ~ LIVE IN SAN FRANCISCO
ABSTRACT LOGIX 059 (Barcode: 700261467016) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018
This is a live album by iconic British guitarist / composer / bandleader John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and his 4th DimensionFind albums by this artist quartet, which includes British keyboardists / drummer Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist, Cameroonian bassist Etienne M`BappeFind albums by this artist and Indian drummer and konokol vocalist Ranjit BarotFind albums by this artist and American guitarist Jimmy HerringFind albums by this artist and his Invisible WhipFind albums by this artist quintet, with violinist Jason CrosbyFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Matt SlocumFind albums by this artist, bassist Kevin ScottFind albums by this artist and drummer Jeff SipeFind albums by this artist. The resulting Fusion nonet performs eight classic Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist tunes, all composed by McLaughlin.
The music is a hyper-powerful explosion of Jazz-Rock Fusion, which pays tribute to the legendary Fusion group founded and led by McLaughlin, which in many respects defined Fusion as we know it, with very few significant developments in the genre that happened in the fifty years that followed since it was at its peak.
McLaughlin’s performances are brilliantly ageless, and his virtuosity seems to be completely unmindful of the years that passed by since he appeared on the scene. He has more energy and open-mindedness than guitarists half his age, which of course is hardly surprising to his many followers. The members of his quartet, as well as the members of Herring’s Invisible Whip all play as if there was no tomorrow and the hair-rising soloing continues as an unstoppable hurricane, which should give all electric guitar oriented Fusion lovers an unforgettable listening experience.
The music sounds remarkably fresh and lost nothing of its originality and ingenuity over time, and this double-trouble powerful approach proves to be extremely effective musically. Yes, they raise a hell of a racket, but what a sublime racket it is!
Overall, this is a brilliant album from start to finish, which continues the sublime recording legacy by the greatest guitarist that we were all blessed to hear in all time. Thank you John for a lifetime of music!
| | Updated: 06/11/2021Posted: 06/11/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN / SHANKAR MAHADEVAN / ZAKIR HUSSAIN ~ IS THAT SO?
ABSTRACT LOGIX 062 (Barcode: 700261477541) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2020
This is an album by iconic British guitarist / composer / bandleader John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist recorded with two Indian musicians: vocalist / composer Shankar MahadevanFind albums by this artist and percussionist Zakir HussainFind albums by this artist. In fact, although not specifically mentioned anywhere on the album’s artwork, this is an album by the Remember ShaktiFind albums by this artist group. The album presents six original songs, five co-composed by McLaughlin and Mahadevan and one co-composed by all three musicians.
The most notable point about this album is the fact that McLaughlin does not play conventional guitar here and all his contributions are synthesized guitar sounds, which might come as a surprise to his many fans, but this does not mean that his contributions are any less interesting or wonderful.
The music is, not surprisingly, heavily influenced by Indian motives, but the stunningly beautiful compositions, brilliant vocals and overall performance are simply breathtaking. The music is not only a new level of Fusion as far as the music is concerned, but first and foremost a deeply spiritual experience, possible only thanks to the great talents of the participants, their open-mindedness and complete lack of cultural barriers.
Mahadevan’s vocal improvisations are an absolute high point of the album and are a sublime example of cross-culture influences, with a distinct similarity to Arabic mawawil, which dominate the Middle East Culture. His virtuosity is often beyond comprehension. Hussain is also a great Master, which he already proved on countless recordings. McLaughlin gracefully takes a step into the shadows, becoming a highly sensitive accompanist, but not dominating the proceedings with his guitar virtuosity.
Overall, this album is a heartwrenching musical experience, which stuns with its spirituality and beauty. It might prove to be somewhat difficult to Western listeners, not accustomed to Indian / Arabic vocal acrobatics, but offering an unusual aesthetic experience. Sublime in every aspect!
| | Updated: 28/11/2021Posted: 28/11/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | SHIMSHON MIEL ~ IT`S ME
NOT ON LABEL ~ ISRAEL ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1997 - 2007 Released: 2007
Since the reissue in early 2007 of Shimshon MielFind albums by this artist’s legendary 1977 album Orchard Of The Whispering EmbersFind albums with this title (the rarest Israeli Prog / Psychedelic album originally pressed in 200 copies only), I’ve met him and listened to the music he created in the last 30 years. As Miel moved in time deep into the orthodox Jewish community, his contact with the local music scene was severed. Although Miel never released any albums since his legendary debut, he continues to play and create music all the time, recording it in his own home studio. I encouraged him to release some of this music, as I found it truly fascinating, and finally he succumbed. This album brings out the hidden treasures out in the open, for all of us to enjoy. Using an array of electric guitars and guitar synthesizers (no other instruments are used and everything is played by him) Miel forges some of the most interesting sound vistas I’ve heard in a long time. Although completely indescribable, the music mixes elements of Psychedelics, Jazz, Avant-Garde and Ambient music without any preconceptions or limitations. Completely unpredictable and deeply atmospheric the music flows beautifully keeping the listener in suspense at all times. Expect the unexpected is probably the only description one can propose to any potential listener, hoping that many will decide to plunge into the deep end of musical adventure. Considering the album is dedicated to John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, who had a deep influence on Miel’s approach to guitar playing, it is quite natural that McLaughlin’s followers will find many hooks into this music, but honestly any open-minded listener should have a feast with this stuff. Not easy, but deeply rewarding music, which is timeless and transcends genres and cultures. Wholeheartedly recommended.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD-R 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | DOM MINASI ~ TAKIN` THE DUKE OUT
CDM 1001 (Barcode: 765432100123) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2001
US guitarist / composer Dom MinasiFind albums by this artist is surely one of the most original and innovative Jazz artists active today and hearing his music is a true revelation. A veteran of the NY Jazz scene, Minasi was influenced by the Jazz Giants like John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and Eric DolphyFind albums by this artist, all of which he heard performing live at NY clubs during his adolescence. Very early on Minasi realized that Free Jazz and Improvised Music were something he wanted to do and he’d stay faithful to that decision throughout his entire career. That does not mean he didn’t study the entire tradition of the Jazz genre (with an emphasis on guitarists of course) and even played “straight ahead” Jazz, which he still enjoys to do from time to time, but his true passion is the more challenging highly improvised and boundless facet of Jazz making. Minasi debut recordings as a leader were released in the mid-1970s by the legendary Blue NoteFind albums on this label label, which unfortunately by that time was already taken over by the Majors and attempted to produce mass-market music. Completely disappointed and frustrated by the treatment received from the Music Industry, Minasi decided to abstain completely from recording music, dedicating his time to live performances, teaching, writing and educating. Almost a quarter of a century later he finally made his return as a recording artists and soon after established his own recording label – CDMFind albums on this label Records – which is now his base of operations. This album is the first release on that label and a triumphant return of Minasi to public exposure, spotlighting his amazing talent as a player and improviser. Recorded live at the legendary NY Knitting Factory it features Minasi and his regular trio with the extraordinary bassist Ken FilianoFind albums by this artist and drummer Jackson KrallFind albums by this artist. As the title suggests, the material consists entirely of Minasi’s far-reaching interpretations of classic Jazz standards written by Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist and Billy StrayhornFind albums by this artist. Hearing this music is a true revelation. Minasi does things with his guitar, which are simply unimaginable, displaying a technique and virtuosity of staggering proportions, as well as amazing improvisational ability. He can be gentle and lyrical one moment and ferocious the next, all in perfect sense and impeccable taste. Guitar lovers can hear the entire history of Jazz guitar playing in his lines, from Wes MontgomeryFind albums by this artist, Barney KesselFind albums by this artist, Larry CoryellFind albums by this artist, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and up to Derek BaileyFind albums by this artist. His supersonic speed is breathtaking and overwhelming, but never flashy and always in total control. Filiano is also amazing, both plucking and bowing his heart away, and Krall displays a rare sensitivity and attention, all of which turns them both into ideal partners for the ride. This is an amazing album, which ought to be heard not only by every guitar player on this planet, but also by every true Jazz lover. Considering the fact the American Jazz is now mostly a vast wasteland of meaningless mainstream doodling, a rare oasis like Minasi is especially refreshing. A gem!
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  | ZOOT MONEY / BIG ROLL BAND ~ BIG TIME OPERATOR
REPERTOIRE 5343 (Barcode: 4009910534328) ~ UK ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 1964 - 1968 Released: 2017
This is a wonderful Box Set collecting early recordings by British vocalist / organist Zoot MoneyFind albums by this artist and his excellent ensemble called Big Roll BandFind albums by this artist. Spread over 4 CDs, the material includes the two albums: "Zoot!Find albums with this title" (Recorded live at the Klook´s Kleek club and released in 1966) and "It Should`ve Been MeFind albums with this title" (The debut studio album released in 1965) and a plethora of additional material, which was recorded live at the Flamingo, as well as at the BBC. Also included are singles and other recordings made between 1964 and 1968, altogether ninety tracks spanning over five hours of music, worth their weight in gold. The band included such luminaries like saxophonists Nick NewallFind albums by this artist, Johnny AlmondFind albums by this artist and Clive BurrowsFind albums by this artist, guitarist Andy SummersFind albums by this artist (later of PoliceFind albums by this artist fame), vocalist / bassist Paul WilliamsFind albums by this artist and drummer Colin AllenFind albums by this artist.
Although the music reflects the British Soul and Rhythm And Blues explosion of the mid 1960s, it also clearly reveals the seeds of early Jazz-Rock and the closely intertwined, cross-genre approach that characterized the British scene at the time. Many musicians felt as comfortable playing a Rhythm And Blues gig as they would playing a Blues or a straight ahead Jazz gig, displaying the same dexterity, knowhow and passion, regardless of the circumstances.
Zoot Money and the Big Roll Band replaced Georgie FameFind albums by this artist and the Blue FlamesFind albums by this artist as the house band at the Flamingo, and the similarities between these two excellent bands are striking; both led by a vocalist / organist, with similar throaty vocal quality, both featured brass sections and a famous (to be) guitarists (in the case of the Blue Flames it was no else than John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist). Most importantly both these ensembles were swinging like hell and had a strong Jazzy feel whatever they were doing.
In retrospect the music presented by the Box Set, although definitely "dated", still sounds absolutely fresh and inspiring. Yes, nobody plays like that anymore, and what a pity it is that they don´t. In spite of the seemingly naïve melodic structures, the music is full of clever hooks and twists, and the playing is simply superb from start to finish.
Beautifully remastered, accompanied by a book with background essays, interviews and many wonderful photographs, this Box Set is a treasure chest, like many similar compilations made by the German RepertoireFind albums on this label label, which specializes in reissues. I hope some younger listeners will reach out and give this music a listen, as it could be really enlightening, especially in view of what is considered as music today. To the people who remember this stuff from their youth, like yours truly, this is an absolute must and an invigorating reminder that music was fun a long, long time ago.
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 24/05/2018 | CD 4 Digibook Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | TED NOVAK ~ MONUMENT VALLEY
NOT ON LABEL ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016
This is the second album by Polish guitarist / composer Ted NovakFind albums by this artist, recoded again in a trio setting, but this time with the excellent organist Jan SmoczynskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Pawel DobrowolskiFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded at the legendary Studio Tokarnia, with Smoczynski also filling the sound engineer´s chair. The album presents eight original compositions, all by Novak.
The presence of the organ introduced a very significant change in the trio´s sound and overall musical direction, taking it to a much higher and more sophisticated level. The sound of the trio resembles the wonderful vintage ambience of early Jazz-Rock ensembles, like for example the Graham BondFind albums by this artist band with John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. This is Rock sound with Jazz feeling, one of the most attractive and satisfying of the kind.
Novak has his own guitar sound and touch, which against all odds manages to create a unique voice. Based on the Blues chords and using just the correct amount of sound effects, the guitar becomes the ideal partner to the sublime Hammond sound, and together they are simply magical. Smoczynski is of course a virtuoso and his usage of the Hammond possibilities is marvelous and seems unlimited. In time his playing expands the palette of the sound colors and honestly there are very few, if any, Hammond players is his class today. Dobrowolski, already a veteran of the Polish Jazz scene, is also a master musicians and his wonderful dynamics and sensitivity, both in the Rock and Jazz areas, are ideal for this music in every respect.
As if this wasn´t more then enough to make this album a perfect piece of music, the compositions are the cherry on top. Beautifully melodic, even melancholic at times, they are all perfect vehicles for the trio to tear the roof off, so to speak, and their stylistic, dynamic and rhythmic diversity is an ideal mix, which makes this album to be over in a jiffy. Well in such case it is advised simply to put it on "repeat" of course.
Overall this is a superb, mature, elegant album, full of great music performed with flair and passion, which truly has few equals anywhere on this planet. Jazz-Rock Fusion is alive and kicking in Warsaw, even if it is dead almost everywhere else, with a few exceptions of course. An absolute must!
| | Updated: 25/03/2017Posted: 29/09/2016 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | OVER THE HILLS ~ ESCALATOR OVER THE HILL
IMR 008 (Barcode: 3426300098870) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2015 Released: 2015
This is an album by French Jazz nonet called Over The HillsFind albums by this artist, co-led by bassist Bernard SantacruzFind albums by this artist and drummer Bruno TocanneFind albums by this artist. As the title suggests, it is a remake of the iconic Jazz opera “Escalator Over The HillFind albums with this title”, composed by Carla BleyFind albums by this artist with libretto by Paul HinesFind albums by this artist, originally released in 1971. The album presents ten tracks, all composed by Bley and included in the original version of the opera (but appearing in a different order), arranged by members of the nonet.
The original recording of “Escalator Over The Hill” took three years and included some of the greatest talents on the international music scene, like bassist / vocalist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Don CherryFind albums by this artist, vocalists Jeanne LeeFind albums by this artist, Sheila JordanFind albums by this artist and Linda RonstadtFind albums by this artist and many, many others. It was a true spiritual experience, with an Avant-Garde concept and attitude at the helm, reflecting the wonderful atmosphere of freedom that the Arts enjoyed at this period of human Artistic apogee, perhaps the last, surely the last so far.
This remake, recorded forty-five years later, reflects some of the power of the original music, but fails to rekindle the drama and shocking innovation of the original delivery. It is simply way to well organized and beautified / smoothed up in comparison, at least to me. The somewhat hectic, disorganized aura of the original is lost here completely in favor of coherent orchestral arrangements, which are all very skillful of course.
But of course the brilliant music by Bley is still here, and the performances are all first class, creating a very enjoyable listening experience. If any younger listeners are about to discover the original opera thanks to this recording, all is well and the effort was worthwhile. This album is definitely worth being discovered just a token of appreciation for the heroic effort involved in this undertaking.
| | Updated: 31/08/2021Posted: 31/08/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | TONY OXLEY ~ FEBRUARY PAPERS
DISCUS 099 (Barcode: 5051078983028) ~ UK ~ Avant-Garde Jazz
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2020
This is a reissue, first time on CD, of an iconic album by British Jazz drummer / composer / bandleader Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven original compositions by Oxley, recorded by three lineups: a quartet with violinists Philipp WachsmannFind albums by this artist and David BourneFind albums by this artist and bassist Barry GuyFind albums by this artist (two tracks), a trio with Wachsmann and guitarist Ian BrightonFind albums by this artist (two tracks) and finally solo percussion and electronics (three tracks).
Oxley held a pivotal position in British Jazz since the mid 1960s, when he became the house drummer at Ronnie Scott´s club in London, which gave him an opportunity to play with the visiting prominent American Jazz stars and top British Jazz musicians. He was highly respected and always considered as truly extraordinary player, with his own perception of the role of drums within the Jazz idiom, but more importantly the concept of Jazz itself and its transformation into Improvised Music, which was developing at the time. Hearing Oxley performing live was for me always an extraordinary experience, regardless of the circumstances. Even within a most "straightforward" mainstream environment, his drumming was always on a different conceptual plane, although he managed to "keep time" perfectly and without a hitch.
Since the late 1960s Oxley started to be featured on a long series of revolutionary British Jazz albums recorded at the time, many of which remain as absolutely essential examples of modern British Jazz and serve as unsurpassed achievements of that boisterous creative period, like those recorded with Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist, Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, John SurmanFind albums by this artist, Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist and others.
His recording career as a leader started in 1969 with the release of two albums for CBSFind albums on this label: "The Baptised TravellerFind albums with this title" (1969) and "4 Compositions For SextetFind albums with this title" (1970), which in retrospect are considered as absolute gems of British Jazz discography. Those were followed by the album "IchnosFind albums with this title" (1971) released on RCAFind albums on this label. Following the disappointment with the major labels, which showed no interest in promoting these albums, Oxley joined guitarist Derek BaileyFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Evan ParkerFind albums by this artist as co-founder of the IncusFind albums on this label label, which was one of the first independent artist owned labels in Britain. He recorded two albums for the label: the eponymous "Tony OxleyFind albums with this title" (1975) and finally this, his fifth album as a leader "February PapersFind albums with this title" (1977).
The music on this album has nothing to do with Jazz in the conventional meaning of the idiom, but it is a perfectly logical continuation of the musical development that is documented on the four a.m. albums. Oxley breaks the conventional barriers and pushes the envelope towards Avant-Garde, which calls for new forms of expression not related to melody, harmony or even the usual sound expected from the instruments. Such extensive use of electronics was almost completely unheard of at the time of course and although early Improvised Music was already present on the scene, it was rarely as uncompromising and far-fetched as what Oxley decided to capture herein. Although bold spirited, the music offers a delicate, almost intimate sound and allows the listener to absorb every nuance of these performances.
The solo percussion / electronics pieces are of course the most surprising ones here. Improvised music is usually about group improvisation, but Oxley is one of the first improvisers to undertake the daring effort to freely improvise on his own, proving that such form of expression is both possible and valid.
Listening to this album today, with over four decades of perspective, enables me to extend my appreciation of this momentous historic effort from a new angle. Improvised Music is of course alive and kicking today and I am constantly exposed to a huge number of such recordings. I have to say that most of those contemporary efforts sound pretty pale in comparison to what Oxley managed to capture for posterity then. Despite the limited possibilities, surely compared to what is available today as far as electronic devices are concerned, his imagination and creativity remains unchallenged.
Kudos to Martin ArcherFind albums by this artist, the man behind DiscusFind albums on this label Records, for bringing this piece of musical history back to circulation – much appreciated! For Avant-Garde / Improvised Music enthusiasts, this is a Holy Grail!
| | Updated: 02/01/2021Posted: 03/10/2020 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | DAN PHILLIPS TRIO ~ DIVERGENT FLOW
LIZARD BREATH (Barcode: 755491110256) ~ USA ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018
This is the fifth album by American guitarist / composer Dan PhillipsFind albums by this artist and his trio with Polish (resident in US) bassist Krzysztof PabianFind albums by this artist and American drummer Timothy DaisyFind albums by this artist, for whom this is the debut recording with this trio. The album presents seven pieces, five of which were composed by Phillips and two are improvisations attributed to all the trio members.
The music is clearly highly improvised, but maintains some basic structure and melody contents, which makes it very accessible in spite of its free spirited nature. The themes are clearly stated at the onset of each of the composed tunes and then expanded into the Free realm, with an impressive trialogue between the trio members.
Due to the clear and non abusive tone produced by the electric guitar, the bass and drums are clearly audible and the listener is able to enjoy their contributions in full. Phillips uses a lot of echo and reverb which give his guitar an eerie but attractive tone, which resembles early John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist´s recordings made almost half a century earlier.
Pabian´s bass is a dominant ingredient of the music, laying the foundation upon the music slides elegantly. Daisy provides a rhythmic barrage, powerful but subtle, which manages not only to keep the music clicking but also ornaments it polyrhythmically. The trio manages to create a typical "less is more" intimacy, which works very effectively, creating an aura of delicate probing in parallel to the melodic lines. Even the freely improvised pieces manage to be deeply expressive and avoid the chaos which such music often falls victim to.
Overall this is a highly original music, which offers superb musicality and a unique sonic experience, which should keep the hordes of guitar players out there licking their lips nervously. Both artistic and professional at the core, this music is a reflection of the Chicago based American progressive / Avant-Garde scene, which is an oasis of Jazz exploration on the great American desert.
Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 28/03/2018 | CD-R 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JEAN-LUC PONTY ~ AURORA
WOUNDED BIRD 8163 (Barcode: 664140816329) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2006
The extraordinary talents of the French violinist Jean-Luc PontyFind albums by this artist stretch over a magnificent career, which started in the 1960s and continues to this very day. His impact on the role of violin in modern music (jazz & fusion) is unparalleled and his compositional skills are equally impressive. The most important aspect of his contribution to music is his ability to mix his European lyricism with American rhythmic patterns, creating a unique amalgam of contemporary sound. Since the late 1960s Ponty was active on the US scene as member of Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist’s Mothers Of InventionFind albums by this artist and then John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist’s Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, where he contributed to the creation of the definitive Jazz-Rock Fusion foundations. While still a member of Mahavishnu Orchestra (1975) Ponty formed his own group and started recording a long series of brilliant albums for the AtlanticFind albums on this label label, of which this is the 2nd. With the help of brilliant musicians like Partice RushenFind albums by this artist on keyboards and Tom FowlerFind albums by this artist on bass (ex-Zappa) Ponty managed to give birth to a perfect Fusion album, which is as relevant today as it was on the day of its creation. He wrote all the music, which includes some of the most memorable melodies the genre was blessed with. The performances are also perfect in every respect and all in all this is one of Fusion’s cornerstones and an absolute must.
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  | JEAN-LUC PONTY ~ SUNDAY WALK
MPS 4029759171379 (Barcode: 4029759171379) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2021
This is a reissue / remaster on an early album by French violinist / composer Jean-Luc PontyFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with a European quartet, which also included German pianist Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, Danish bassist Niels-Henning Orsted PedersenFind albums by this artist and Swiss drummer Daniel HumairFind albums by this artist. The album presents five tracks, one each by Ponty, Dauner and Humair, one by American composer Denny Zeitlin and one standard. The recording was initiated by my Friend and Mentor, the producer Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, who wrote the liner notes for the original album, which are respectfully included in this album’s artwork.
At this early stage of his career, Ponty was already recognized as a great talent and continuator of the French violin Jazz school, following in the footsteps of Stephane GrappelliFind albums by this artist. But Ponty was not a mere keeper of the tradition, as his improvisation was close to John ColtraneFind albums by this artist and his musical path was about to include stints with Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and other pioneers of Jazz-Rock Fusion, who established the genre.
The three partners Ponty selected to accompany him on this album were also, despite their young age, already amongst Europe’s most seasoned and talented young musicians. The immediate perfect rapport between the quartet members is evident from the very onset of the music and lasts unbroken till the very last note.
The original material is certainly as good, and in fact better than any standard the quartet might have picked to perform together, and the talents of all three composers was about to flourish for years to come. Although Orsted Pederson died in 2005 and Dauner in 2020, Ponty and Humair continue their brilliant careers now, fifty-five years after this classic gem was recorded.
Overall, this is one of the greatest gems of early European modern Jazz and a classic album in every respect, which has but a few equals over time. The fact that it is finally available on CD should make countless fans of violin Jazz ecstatically happy. This is an absolute must in every serious Jazz record collection.
Side Note
The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet.
In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker.
Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace.
In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically.
Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.
| | Updated: 25/03/2024Posted: 05/04/2022 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MACIEK PYSZ ~ INSIGHT
33 RECORDS 231 (Barcode: 5020883337319) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2013
This is one of those unexpected pleasant surprises that arrive in my mail box from time to time, which are not only musical delights but also have a personal aspect, closing one of the infinite connections woven during my life as a Jazz activist. Maciek PyszFind albums by this artist is a Polish guitarist / composer resident in London since 2003 and is considered as one of the most interesting upcoming players on the scene. His cohorts are Russian bassist Yuri GoloubevFind albums by this artist, a classically trained player living now in Milan, and Israeli drummer Asaf SirkisFind albums by this artist, also resident in London, considered as one of the best players around. Of course Sirkis is one of the many "kids on the block" that grew up under my wings and received their first recording opportunity on my record label, hence I consider him as one of my "musical children" spread all over the world.
The trio performs nine original compositions, all by Pysz (one co-composed with the Italian guitarist Gianluca CoronaFind albums by this artist), who was also in charge of the exquisite arrangements. The music is a wonderful amalgam of influences mixing Jazzy improvisations with multicultural backgrounds including Gypsy, Flamenco, Latin and Brazilian folklore and European Classical music. Rhythmic influences also touch upon Middle Eastern pulsations. Together these elements are wonderfully interwoven, producing a completely unique musical identity, which belongs to the guitar based Jazz-World Fusion universe pioneered by such luminaries as Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist, Ralph TownerFind albums by this artist or John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, among others. Without any exaggeration, this music is every bit as good as the music created by these great Masters.
But the excellent compositions and arrangements are also accompanied by superb performances. All three players are obvious virtuosi, each capable of astounding performance, and when combined are capable of truly wondrous music making. Pysz has a superb technique but even more so a deep feeling. The acoustic / classical guitar laughs and weeps, switches between cheerful lightheadedness and moody melancholy. The single notes and the chords are always in harmonious relation to each other and to the two other musicians. Goloubev is already quite famous as a classical player, but his performances here show that his feel and respect for Jazz are of no lesser magnitude. Sirkis, who "holds his horses" and intelligently fits his percussive magic to the delicate acoustic surroundings, simply binds the entire musical experience into a complete and perfect artistic message.
As if all the above was not enough, the album is also superbly recorded, with an astonishing sonic ambience and dynamics of the highest quality, which turns the experience of listening to the music into a true delight. This is obviously "guitar heaven" for guitar buffs, but any true music connoisseur should find this album extraordinary in every sense. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | REMEMBER SHAKTI ~ THE WAY OF BEAUTY
VERVE 838683 (Barcode: 602498386835) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1976 - 2004 Released: 2006
Finally, after so many years of waiting, the fans (myself included) can enjoy au vivo the spectacular and divine work of John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and his Indian ensemble ShaktiFind albums by this artist. The original Shakti was formed in 1975 with McLaughlin combining forces with several classical Indian Masters, including percussionist extraordinare Zakir HussainFind albums by this artist. After releasing three superb albums McLaughlin disbanded the ensemble in 1977, only to reunite it again 22 years later, this time under the name Remember ShaktiFind albums by this artist, which recorded another 3 albums. This great DVD includes over 3 hours of material, which covers performances of the original ensemble as well as the reunion, documentary material and interviews. McLaughlin visionary and pioneering approach to World-Jazz Fusion is of course just one of his many musical achievements, which deserve to be devoured at all possible avenues. This is a true Godsend! NTSC
| | | DVD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | RAY RUSSELL ~ SECRET ASYLUM
REEL RECORDINGS 005 (Barcode: 641444015726) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2007
Guitarist / composer Ray RussellFind albums by this artist was a dominant figure on the British Jazz scene in the late 1960s / early 1970s, making numerous seminal recordings as sideman and leader in a wide variety of styles ranging from Jazz-Rock Fusion, modern Jazz and even Avant-Garde Free Jazz. This reissue of his classic album shows him at the extreme edge of his work in the field of Free Jazz and is a wonderful example of the genre, similar to the work done earlier by John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist with John SurmanFind albums by this artist on Where Fortune SmilesFind albums with this title. Accompanied by a splendid group of musicians that includes Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Gary WindoFind albums by this artist on sax, Daryl RunswickFind albums by this artist on bass and Alan RushtonFind albums by this artist on drums, Russell presents a series of his compositions, which vary from contemplative pieces to group improvisation mayhem, all performed splendidly. Beckett is more prominent on the quieter pieces and Windo leads the massive “wall of sound” sections, with his incredible virtuosity. The album achieved little attention at the time of its release, but now 35 years after it was recorded, it can be really appreciated in full and in the proper historic perspective. Definitely worth checking out!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | RAY RUSSELL SEXTET ~ FORGET TO REMEMBER
JAZZ IN BRITAIN 22 (Barcode: 5060774190166) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2021
This is an archival album by British Jazz guitarist / composer Ray RussellFind albums by this artist, which presents a BBC session recorded in a sextet setting with trumpeter Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Tony RobertsFind albums by this artist, trombonist Nick EvansFind albums by this artist, bassist Daryl RunswickFind albums by this artist and drummer Alan RushtonFind albums by this artist. The album presets seven tracks, five original compositions by Russell, two appearing twice in alternate versions.
Before this session Russell already recorded and released two seminal albums for CBSFind albums on this label (“Turn CircleFind albums with this title” and “Dragon HillFind albums with this title”) and some of the material present here would appear later on his third studio album (also on CBS) “Rites And RitualsFind albums with this title”.
The music is already deeply within the modern British Jazz mold, which developed around that time, plunging into open formats and Free Improvisation, but still based on clear melodic phrases serving as the starting points of each tune. Russell offered a completely idiosyncratic style, merging Rock attack with Jazz chord delivery, which made him a new voice on the scene. He eschewed the Fusion direction, staying firmly within the Jazz idiom at the time, sounding like an angry John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist on speed, but completely himself. His soloing on this album, which is much more opened than on the studio recordings, is absolutely hair-raising and deserves to be heard, since after fifty years of Jazz guitar there are very few examples of a more imaginative approach.
The other players support the leader amicably, with Beckett taking the rest of the soloing under his wings and the other two brass players heard mostly on the intros and outros but also soloing from time to time. The rhythm section is brilliant all the way and manages to swing gracefully despite the rather overall Free atmosphere.
With the usual BBC sound quality, this is a superb document of the era, obviously worth being heard by the fans of the period. Guitar freaks are in for quite a surprise obviously, so here it is, five decades old and still alive and kicking. Good job with keeping this music alive.
| | Updated: 30/05/2021Posted: 30/05/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHEL SAJRAWY ~ YATHRIB
OZELLA 010 (Barcode: 4038952000102) ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2006
1st album by Israeli guitarist Michel SajrawyFind albums by this artist and what a fantastic album it is! Sajrawy is an Arab Christian, born in Nazareth. In 1995 he moved to London and devoted himself entirely to music. He is deeply rooted in the Middle Eastern music but expanded his musical horizons to include jazz and contemporary classical music. He is regarded as an extremely gifted guitarist, composer and arranger. This is his debut album, for which he composed all the music. It is breathtakingly beautiful, a fusion of Middle East and West, with delicate and masterly guitar work by the leader and excellent support by his band and guest musicians. Imagine John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist`s ShaktiFind albums by this artist, but swap Indian music for Middle Eastern music. The people on the album include Muslims, Christians and Jews - a true amalgam of influences, religions and a beautiful proof of music transcendenting cultural and even political differences. Superb!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | SANTANA ~ AFRICA SPEAKS
CONCORD 888072090842 (Barcode: 888072090842) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019
It is almost exactly fifty years since I´ve heard SantanaFind albums by this artist live for the first time during the Woodstock Festival and it was definitely "love at first sound". Over the years I have kept a close ear down to the Santana ground, following the ups and downs the incredibly talented guitarist / composer / bandleader Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist and his ever changing ensembles, which produced a vast body of recordings over time. Santana never lost his touch on the guitar and he is still one of the best guitar players around, which nobody can deny. Personally I always preferred the Jazz "days" when Santana explored exotic Jazz-Rock Fusion with some of the top Jazz musicians, like fellow guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, but of course many of his later Latin / Pop explorations were also exemplary.
This album finds Carlos Santana coupled with Spanish vocalist / composer / poet BuikaFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Concha BuikaFind albums by this artist), who sings the lead vocals (in Spanish) on all the tracks, which she wrote the lyrics to. Carlos Santana composed or co-composed the music to all the eleven tracks on the album. The instrumental sound follows the classic Santana pattern with scorching lead guitar, Hammond organ, bass, drums and percussion.
The music, as the album´s title suggests, explores the polyrhythmic African tradition, heavily mixed with Latin and some Jazz influences. It definitely takes time to get into. Santana´s guitar is harsh and rocky, in contrast to his usual fluid and mellow tone, often so harsh that listening to the music becomes very difficult. Buika, who is considered as a talented singer, shouts almost non-stop, in a manner that can hardly be considered as singing, which again adds to the difficulty I experienced while listening to the music, produced by the famous producer Rick RubinFind albums by this artist at his studio. It is definitely quite strange for a producer of such fame to create an almost unlistenable product – perhaps a product of the MP3 aesthetics. I had to take the volume down almost to a whisper while listening to the album to be able to listen to it in its entirety.
Overall this is a very disappointing album and a sad 50th anniversary (and 25th studio album anniversary), which still shows Carlos Santana as a great guitarist, but surrounded by a sonic cacophonic disaster.
| | Updated: 07/07/2019Posted: 07/07/2019 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | SANTANA ~ CARAVANSERAI
COLUMBIA 511128 (Barcode: 5099751112822) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2003
4th album, which reflects clear change of direction for the band (and the bandleader in particular) and initiating the entrance of SantanaFind albums by this artist into the world of Fusion. Following three phenomenally successful albums and a clearly defined style (perfected by five years of recording and touring) mixing rock with Latin and Jazz rhythms, the band was now in a turmoil, being torn apart by two conflicting tendencies. Some of the band members wished to continue the same path (stylistically) and others (especially Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist) wanted to move on to the next phase. In the period shortly preceding the recording of this album Carlos was exposed to two new major cultural influences. Fellow guitarists Larry CoryellFind albums by this artist and John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist introduced Carlos to the teachings of Guru Sri ChinmoyFind albums by this artist and he embraced these with passion. Santana’s drummer Michael ShrieveFind albums by this artist inaugurated Carlos into the burgeoning world of (then) contemporary jazz and Fusion of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, Weather ReportFind albums by this artist and Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, which he immediately fell in love with. All these new influences pushed Carlos further and further away from the old Santana style into Fusion, which would soon result in the collapse of the original line-up and the creation of a new band. CaravanseraiFind albums with this title is a crossroads album for the band, with several members playing here for the last time. Organist Gregg RolieFind albums by this artist and guitarist Neal SchonFind albums by this artist would leave soon after to form JourneyFind albums by this artist and new members, notably keyboards player Tom CosterFind albums by this artist and bassist Doug RauchFind albums by this artist would join. Since the album includes all of these wonderful players, the resulting music is truly exquisite. The dual lead guitar front line drives the melodic material to stratospheric heights and the expanded percussive rhythm section provides a soaring background. In spite of the “in transition” mood, the albums sounds cohesive and provides an uplifting musical continuum. The album was to be followed shortly by the divine Carlos Santana / John McLaughlin duet album Love, Devotion, SurrenderFind albums with this title and a series of outstanding albums like WelcomeFind albums with this title, IlluminationsFind albums with this title (with Alice ColtraneFind albums by this artist) and LotusFind albums with this title. An absolute classic!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CARLOS SANTANA ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS
SONY 886976260620 (Barcode: 886976260620) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 - 1980 Released: 2010
This Box Set collects reissues of three studio albums by the iconic American guitarist / composer / bandleader Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist, originally released on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label between 1974 and 1980. They are: “IlluminationsFind albums with this title” (1974), “Oneness: Silver Dreams - Golden RealtyFind albums with this title” (1979) and “The Swing Of DelightFind albums with this title” (1980). All three were released under Santana’s Sanskrit name Devadip Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist given to him by Sri ChinmoyFind albums by this artist. These three albums followed Carlos Santana’s debut solo album recorded in collaboration with guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist entitled “Love Devotion SurrenderFind albums with this title” (1973).
“Illuminations” is a collaboration with pianist / harpist Alice ColtraneFind albums by this artist, the wife of John ColtraneFind albums by this artist. SantanaFind albums by this artist (the group) keyboardist Tom CosterFind albums by this artist and percussionist Armando PerazaFind albums by this artist play on the album and Coster also co-composed three of the tracks. Jazz musicians: bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and several others take part in the recording, as well as a large string section conducted by Alice Coltrane, who wrote the arrangements and co-composed one the tracks. A short chant by Chinmoy is the album’s opening track.
“Oneness: Silver Dreams - Golden Realty” presents fifteen relatively short compositions, most composed by Carlos Santana and is performed by a large group of musicians, including many Santana (the group) members. The first six tracks were recorded live and the rest were recorded in the studio.
“The Swing Of Delight”, originally a double LP, presents nine compositions performed by a large group of top Jazz musicians, including Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, Ron CarterFind albums by this artist, Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist and many others.
These three albums together with the a.m. “Love Devotion Surrender” album present some of the most spiritual and deeply Jazz influenced music that Carlos Santana created during his long-lasting career. The mixture of Indian spirituality, which he shared with many Jazz musicians at the time, and extensive / hypnotic Jazz improvisations are in retrospect some of his best achievements, and deserve to be cherished and remembered.
Side Note
The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty.
The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations.
In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!
| | Updated: 13/09/2021Posted: 13/09/2021 | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | CARLOS SANTANA / JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ LOVE DEVOTION SURRENDER
COLUMBIA 63593 (Barcode: 074646359327) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2003
This is the most quintessential Fusion album of all times. Although sadly neglected and almost forgotten (both by critics and listeners) over the years, it stands out as a beacon of musical enlightenment for posterity. The album came to be as a result of many parallel events and personal / musical paths crossings. Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist and John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist became close after becoming disciples of Guru Sri Chinmoy. Although they were both aware of each other’s work before this musical cooperation, they operated in quite separate musical areas. McLaughlin at this point had already a glorious career stretch behind him with his pioneering work on the UK Jazz-Rock scene, his revolutionary work with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, the visionary contributions in the Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist LifetimeFind albums by this artist and of course his brilliant Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist output. Santana’s roots were deep into Latin music and rock, but he was rapidly transforming his musical focus into jazz and Fusion. Influenced by his band’s drummer Michael ShrieveFind albums by this artist, who was a jazz buff, Carlos discovered a new musical world and was swallowing everything he could lay his ears on. This included the works of Mahavishnu Orchestra, of which he was a devoted fan, but also the work of Miles Davis and John ColtraneFind albums by this artist. The actual get together was most probably orchestrated by ColumbiaFind albums on this label’s chief Clive DavisFind albums by this artist (both Santana and Mahavishnu Orchestra were signed by Columbia Records), suggesting a John Coltrane tribute album featuring both guitarists. The album was recorded almost immediately after Santana finished recording the pivotal CaravanseraiFind albums with this title album, which marked a series of dramatic changes both in the band’s musical direction (a move towards jazz and Fusion) and personnel changes (the forming of Santana Mk. II). A meeting of two great talents is always a dangerous affair, and this one could have proven either disastrous or absolutely divine – fortunately the latter did happen. The reason it did turn out to be such a success is twofold: First the musicians truly loved Coltrane’s music and felt the spiritual side of it (Coltrane went through a process of soul searching and seeking enlightenment in Eastern beliefs as well). Coltrane’s “A Love Supreme” is really a musical mantra very similar to a Hindu chant, which of course is as much a spiritual music as it ever gets. The beautiful “Naima” (the other Coltrane composition featured here) is also deeply spiritual, as are the two McLaughlin’s compositions and the traditional chant, which serves as the base for the remaining track of the album. Having established the musical / spiritual base of the session the rest was up to the participating musicians, which (again) most fortunately turned out to be ideal. Both Santana and McLaughlin brought with them associate musicians – Carlos brought selected members of his band (Armando PerazaFind albums by this artist – congas, Doug RauchFind albums by this artist – bass and Michael Shrive – drums) and John brought Mahavishnu Orchestra members (Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist – drums and Jan HammerFind albums by this artist – drums(!)). Veteran jazz drummer Don AliasFind albums by this artist was also invited, but the greatest and perhaps most crucial role was entrusted upon the organ player Larry YoungFind albums by this artist – John’s former partner in Lifetime. Young provides the foundation and glue, which makes this session work. With two lead guitarists exchanging licks at the speed of light and the super-power expanded rhythm section pulsating mercilessly, this session would have never worked without Young’s brilliant work. He fills the spaces, provides the balance and the sanity, the ground on which the soloist are able to build their sky-high towers. Of course the main attraction is the spectacular work by the two soloists, so different and yet so completely complimentary of each other. Santana’s sublimely melodic feel (truly unparalleled to this very day) and McLaughlin’s extraordinary improvisational abilities just merge into one continuous flow of musical bliss. Their exchanges are in perfect harmony, not competing but supplementing each other – fire and grace incarnate. This remastered edition enhances the originally muddy sound tremendously and the two bonus tracks are priceless. There is nothing but Love of music, Devotion to talent and Surrender to divinity on this album, the Mother of all Fusion albums! Beyond essential!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SHAKTI ~ THIS MOMENT
ABSTRACT LOGIX 068 (Barcode: 700261493091) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2023 Released: 2023
This is an album by the reformed group ShaktiFind albums by this artist, following a forty-six years break since the release of the last of the trio of albums recorded between 1975 and 1977. Led by British Jazz guitar virtuoso John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and Indian percussionist Zakir HussainFind albums by this artist, the current lineup includes also Indian vocalist Shankar MahadevanFind albums by this artist, violinist Ganesh RajagopalanFind albums by this artist and percussionist Selvaganesh VinayakaramFind albums by this artist. All four Indian musician utilize the konokol vocal technique. The album presents seven original compositions, three by McLaughlin, one each by Hussain, Mahadevan and Vinayakaram, one co-composed by all members of the band and finally one traditional Carnatic tune.
The music is a direct continuation of the Shakti concept of amalgamating Classic Indian music and Western Jazz improvisation, but this time there is much less emphasis on McLaughlin’s soloing and way more vocal and percussion contributions. However, the original Shakti spirit is wonderfully preserved and the result is absolutely delightful from start to finish.
McLaughlin is still a sublime guitar player, despite the slightly modest presence herein, and when he touches the strings magic happens time and time again. But the Indian players and especially the vocal contributions by Mahadevan are no less exciting, spiritual and aesthetically fulfilling. The konokol vocalese is, as always, delightful as well.
One of the McLaughlin tunes is a Gypsy / Flamenco tune, but is here dressed in an Indian regalia, showing how all music is interconnected, regardless of its origins.
Overall, although the album does not break and new ground, it is a wonderful reminder of former prominence and cross-cultural pollination. Shakti proves to be one of the greatest Jazz-World Fusion ensembles that ever existed, and McLaughlin is still my favorite guitar player of all time. This album is of course an absolute must to all Shakti, Remember ShaktiFind albums by this artist and McLaughlin fans, but it has a universal musical value to all lovers of truly great music.
| | Updated: 24/07/2023Posted: 24/07/2023 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ JOHN SURMAN
VOCALION 8402 (Barcode: 765387840228) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2005
Saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist is a true icon of the British / European Jazz scene for over four decades. The immense body of work Surman produced over the years, starting with his numerous UK recordings in the late 1960s and 1970s and then through his association with the German ECMFind albums on this label label, reflect the absolute pinnacle of European Jazz. John’s incredible improvisational ability and masterly technique on several reed instruments made him a most welcome contributor to scores of pivotal albums recorded in the formative years of British modern Jazz, with such illustrious names as Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist, Graham CollierFind albums by this artist, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist (ExtrapolationFind albums with this title) and many others. His work is always characterized by pioneering achievements, embracing new technology and new musical forms and constantly changing, like a true musical chameleon. This album is his debut as a leader and might come as quite a surprise to listeners, who are familiar with his more contemporary works. The album presents two quite distinctive sides of his musical personality at the time, appropriately divided between what used to be Side A and Side B of the original LP. Surman plays the baritone saxophone exclusively on this album, demonstrating his command of the instrument. On Side A he leads a sextet with Mike OsborneFind albums by this artist (his close associate at the time) – alto sax and Harry MillerFind albums by this artist – bass, exploring some Caribbean / calypso rhythms and playing music not composed by himself (Sonny RollinsFind albums by this artist is the composer of one of the four tracks). On Side B the ensemble is expanded to an eleven-piece band, including Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist and Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist – trumpets, Malcolm GriffithsFind albums by this artist and Paul RutherfordFind albums by this artist – trombones, Dave HollandFind albums by this artist – bass, Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist – drums and others. The music is a wonderful three-piece suite composed by Surman, a prime example of the British modern Jazz, with superb solos and free-form passages, culminating in a powerful big band orgy of sound. Definitely something any Surman fan will be happy to add to his collection and a beautiful piece of the puzzle representing Surman’s musical legacy.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAMES TAYLOR ~ THE WARNER BROS. ALBUMS 1970-1976
RHINO 603497852390 (Barcode: 603497852390) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1970 - 1978 Released: 2019
This Box Set offers a reissue of the six albums recorded by the iconic American singer / songwriter / guitarist James TaylorFind albums by this artist, released on the Warner Bros.Find albums on this label label. Following the recording of his debut album on the BeatlesFind albums by this artist´ owned AppleFind albums on this label Records, Taylor signed with Warner Bros. and released his second to seventh album on that label, which were hugely successful and established him as one of the voices of the Woodstock Generation. The albums were carefully remastered under the supervision of the Peter AsherFind albums by this artist, who was Taylor´s manager and produced the first three albums in this Box Set, which is carefully designed and includes detailed information about recording dates and personnel, which sadly is not always the case with Box Sets of this kind.
This Box Set includes some of the most beautiful songs written by American music makers over time. Most of the songs were written by Taylor, but he also used a few songs by other songwriters. His idiosyncratic voice knows no equals to this date and his heartfelt singing lost nothing of its magic touch. He was accompanied by the absolute crème de la crème of instrumentalists and his albums were carefully arranged and produced. In retrospect these six albums are all absolute gems, which lost nothing of their power of expression and intrinsic delicate beauty during the years that passed since they were recorded.
Taylor´s music impersonates American Classic Rock at its best, incorporating, mostly subconsciously, elements of Country & Western, Blues, Jazz and other indigenous American music sources with Pop and Rock, creating a unique style of his own, but one that corresponded to the music made in America at the time by many other Artists like Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist, Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist, Carole KingFind albums by this artist, Carly SimonFind albums by this artist (to whom he was married at the time), Simon & GarfunkelFind albums by this artist, Stevie WonderFind albums by this artist and others. Many of these artists made appearances on the albums included here, the most surprising being probably Jazz guitar virtuoso John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, who contributed one of the songs and played guitar on it.
Overall this Box Set is a true treasure chest of superb music, which deserves a proud place in any serious music collection. For me this is of course a voice of my Generation, but the music is absolutely relevant also today and hopefully some young listeners will discover this timeless piece of Art. Beyond essential!
| | Updated: 10/08/2019Posted: 10/08/2019 | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | TRIO OF DOOM ~ TRIO OF DOOM
COLUMBIA 96450 (Barcode: 827969645024) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1979 Released: 2007
A power Fusion trio consisting of musicians of such caliber as John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist (guitar), Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist (bass) and Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist (drums) usually only happens in the wildest and wettest of dreams by serious Fusion-heads, but if fact this one did happen in reality and even recorded both live and in the studio. Trio Of DoomFind albums by this artist was a one-time collaboration assembled for the occasion of the historic Havana Jam Festival in Cuba, where for the first time US performers were allowed to play before the Cuban audience. The festival took place for 3 days in early March of 1979 and presented a wide variety of US artists (pop, rock & jazz) and was recorded by ColumbiaFind albums on this label. Selections were later released on 2 albums, including 3 of the tracks on this album. Although McLaughlin never played before with Pastorius, both of them did play with Williams: McLaughlin as a member of his group LifetimeFind albums by this artist and Pastorius in Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, when Williams played on Mr. GoneFind albums with this title. The trio’s rehearsals were very successful, but the actual concert at Havana’s Carl Marx (what else?) hall turned out to be unsatisfactory due to a hectic and out-of-focus performance by Pastorius. The legend has it that Williams almost kicked the hell out of Pastorius after the gig (being a men of enormous physical strength this was no laughing matter), but seeing how spaced-out Pastorius was punched a hole in a wall instead. When Columbia informed McLaughlin that they want to use the Havana material for their albums, McLaughlin opposed and eventually a recording session was set up a week later to repeat the live performance in the studio. The resulting studio material was then used to overdub parts of the live recording, which appeared on the Havana Jam albums. This album brings us (28 years later) the entire live and studio material recorded by the Trio Of Doom in its original form, most of it previously unreleased in any form. The music is of course electrifying and almost super-human. All three musicians at the peek of their performing powers, with years of experience and enormous talents just can’t go wrong. Williams is in fact the moving power behind the trio, with his phenomenal technique and sublime interplay with his partners. This music kicks serous ass and whatever minor imperfections overshadowed the outcome at the time, those are long time gone and thankfully forgiven / forgotten. We can all enjoy this glorious Fusion gem, which is finally out of the vaults. Viva Fusion!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ FUSION FOR MILES: A BITCHIN` BREW
MASCOT 7166 (Barcode: 8712725716624) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2005
This is the 3rd project in the series of Fusion tributes, conceived, produced and arranged by Jeff RichmanFind albums by this artist. This time he is paying tribute to the Big Boss himself, Miles DavisFind albums by this artist. Ten compositions by Miles Davis are given a modern fusion treatment, each featuring a different guitarist. The inspiration comes of course from the electric jazz period of Miles, around Bitches BrewFind albums with this title, which of course featured John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist – the same man who was paid a tribute by Richman’s previous project. The rhythm section this time consists of Vinnie CalaiutaFind albums by this artist – drums, Alphonso JohnsonFind albums by this artist – bass and Larry GoldingsFind albums by this artist – organ. Ex- Miles Davis saxophonist Dave LiebmanFind albums by this artist provides the link to the original music and the featured guitarists include Mike SternFind albums by this artist, Bill FrisellFind albums by this artist, Bill ConnorsFind albums by this artist, Pat MartinoFind albums by this artist, Bireli LagreneFind albums by this artist, etc. “Conventional” lovers of Miles Davis might find this treatment a bit bold, but fusion fans will definitely enjoy every minute of this.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ VISIONS OF AN INNER MOUNTING APOCALYPSE
MASCOT 7117 (Barcode: 8712725711728) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2005
This is the 2nd project in the series of Fusion tributes, conceived, produced and arranged by Jeff RichmanFind albums by this artist. An entire generation of contemporary fusion guitar players pays tribute to their divine master – John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and his band Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist. This ambitious project works out like a dream (a wet dream for fusion fans for sure). Ten compositions by McLaughlin, written for and performed with Mahavishnu Orchestra, are given here a new treatment. Each of the tracks features a different guitarist and the list reads like a who’s who of fusion: Mike SternFind albums by this artist, Steve MorseFind albums by this artist, Frank GambaleFind albums by this artist, David FiuczynskiFind albums by this artist, etc. The accompanying rhythm section of Vinnie CalaiutaFind albums by this artist – drums, Kai EckhardtFind albums by this artist – bass and Mitchel FormanFind albums by this artist – keyboards is the backbone of the project and carries the load splendidly. Ex-Mahavishnu Orchestra violinist Jerry GoodmanFind albums by this artist adds his magic touch on several tracks, closing the full circle, so to speak. Definitely a must for all Mahavishnu Orchestra fans and basically for all fusion fans - whatever their fusion taste may be this is much too good to be ignored.
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  | VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ VIVA CARLOS!: A SUPERNATURAL MARATHON CELEBRATION
MASCOT 7210 (Barcode: 8712725721024) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2006
5th Fusion tribute album produced by Jeff RichmanFind albums by this artist (see the earlier John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and Steely DanFind albums by this artist Fusion tributes). Sticking to the same formula, the producer sets up a “house band” (this time including Peter WolfFind albums by this artist – keyboards, Abe LaborielFind albums by this artist – bass, Dave WecklFind albums by this artist – drums and Luis ConteFind albums by this artist – percussion) and matches it with some of the best Fusion guitar players (this time Robben FordFind albums by this artist, Frank GambaleFind albums by this artist, Albert LeeFind albums by this artist, Pat MartinoFind albums by this artist, Mike SternFind albums by this artist and others). As the title suggests, the subject matter this time is the music of Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist. Since this formula worked out splendidly on the previous four albums, there is no reason to suspect that things would go wrong this time, and indeed they don’t. The only problem might have been the choice of material from the vast SantanaFind albums by this artist repertoire, but fortunately only the best tunes were selected, all of them from his early and most fruitful years. The various guitar players, rather then to imitate Santana’s guitar sound and special technique, play in their own individual way, taking the music places often quite different from the origin. The entire album works out beautifully as a whole and Fusion fans (and guitar freaks) should have a field day with this stuff.
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  | MIROSLAV VITOUS ~ UNIVERSAL SYNCOPATIONS
ECM 1863 (Barcode: 044003850620) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2003
Soon after his arrival in the US from his native Czechoslovakia, bassist / composer Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist became one of the central figures in the vortex of Jazz activity in the late 1960s / early 1970s with the emergence of American Fusion. Over the years Vitous played with all the great Masters, both in the US and in Europe and this recording by the super-group quintet proves his status as a member of the Jazz elite. Saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist, pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist combine forces with Vitous, performing nine of his original compositions, two of which were co-composed with Garbarek and one with DeJohnette. On three of these compositions the quintet is expanded to an octet, with the addition of three brass players. The result is a mixture of modern Jazz and occasional Fusion experiments, with plenty of space for the individual players to improvise. The level of musicianship is of course staggering and the overall result should please most listeners of contemporary Jazz. Warmly recommended!
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  | KENNY WHEELER ~ WINDMILL TILTER
BGO 0944 (Barcode: 5017261209443) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2010
Canadian-born trumpeter / composer Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist arrived in London in 1952 and soon found himself emerged in the lively local Jazz scene. Playing with many different ensembles active at the time, he slowly earned the position of the country´s most respected, reliable and talented Jazz player. By the end of the 1950s Wheeler started an association with saxophonist /composer / bandleader Johnny DankworthFind albums by this artist, playing in his various ensembles, which would last for the next decade. In 1968 Dankworth suggested to Wheeler that he´d used a three months period of recovery from a surgery to compose a suite for a Jazz group and orchestra, a suggestion Wheeler accepted with open hands. The result was the magnificent piece of music presented here, based on the tragic story of Don Quixote. Performed by a quintet, which comprised of Wheeler, saxophonist / clarinetist Tony CoeFind albums by this artist, guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and drummer John SpoonerFind albums by this artist and the Johnny Dankworth Orchestra, this milestone of British Jazz remains every bit as much relevant today as it was at the time of its recording. Similar in spirit to the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist / Gil EvansFind albums by this artist classic "Sketches Of SpainFind albums with this title", the suite firmly establishes Wheeler´s position as a major player on the global Jazz scene, which of course was reaffirmed time and again in years to come. This reissue, long time overdue, brings back to life an incredible treasure and listening to it makes life worth living!
| | Updated: 28/02/2024Posted: | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | TONY WILLIAMS / LIFETIME ~ EMERGENCY!
ESOTERIC 2256 (Barcode: 5013929735620) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2011
This is the 1st album (originally a double LP) by the revolutionary Tony Williams LifetimeFind albums by this artist, a groundbreaking trio created by drummer Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist with British guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and organist Larry YoungFind albums by this artist. The trio was a pioneering force of the Jazz-Rock Fusion and set up not only the standards, which would be followed decades on, but also most of the tricks of the trade for the new and emerging genre. The playing is absolutely incredible, innovative and virtuosic and the music lost absolutely nothing over time, in fact it sounds even better than at the time it was recorded, especially in comparison to contemporary Fusion efforts. This is one of the most influential albums in music history and an absolute must in any decent record collection. Beyond essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | TONY WILLIAMS / LIFETIME ~ LIVE IN NEW YORK 1969
HI HAT 3084 (Barcode: 5297961308411) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2017
This is a live recording by the legendary pioneering Jazz-Rock Fusion trio Tony Williams LifetimeFind albums by this artist, founded by American drummer Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist and including also organist Larry YoungFind albums by this artist and British guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. It presents some of the material that was released on the trio´s debut album "Emergency!Find albums with this title" and some material from their second album "Turn It OverFind albums with this title", which was recorded and released after this concert was recorded with the British bassist Jack Bruce as a fourth member of Lifetime.
The music is of course absolutely stunning, light-years ahead of its time, presenting a futuristic amalgam of Avant-Garde Rock, Jazz and Improvised Music, with a heavy, muddy sound dominating the proceedings kicked forward by Williams´ hyper energetic drumming. Although this music is often considered as some of the most important early Jazz-Rock Fusion, it was in fact more daring and advanced that most of the genre´s output that followed.
McLaughlin was of course exposed to the true Jazz-Rock Fusion cradle at least five or so years earlier, when he was a member of the Graham Bond QuartetFind albums by this artist, which is where this genre was born. His remarkable performances here are simply blood-curdling.
The trio´s genesis is of course connected to the association of its members with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and his Fusion period, which culminated with the recording of the iconic "Bitches BrewFind albums with this title" album. Lifetime was only one of several iconic groups born from musicians playing with Miles at the time, such as Weather ReportFind albums by this artist and Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist.
Although the sound of this recording is not ideal, neither is the sound of the studio recorded "Emergency!", and considering the rarity and the importance of the music this is a must for Tony Williams Lifetime fans and followers of Fusion history!
Side Note
Obiterdictum Ltd, a company based in Cyprus (oh well you know the story… copyright laws and legal issues) releases mostly live recorded radio broadcasts from the 1960s on and offers an amazing source of music which was never officially released by some of the best Classic Rock and Jazz artists. The catalogue offers five hundred releases, which is an absolute treasure chest of music history, often appearing for the first time.
Although the sound quality and sometimes also music quality range from absolutely brilliant to pretty poor, most of the material is surely listenable, especially after being remastered recently, and more importantly offers music which is not available elsewhere.
The company releases the albums under several sub-labels: Air CutsFind albums on this label, EchoesFind albums on this label, Hi HatFind albums on this label, HotspurFind albums on this label, InterferenceFind albums on this label, KeyholeFind albums on this label, KlondikeFind albums on this label, Live On VinylFind albums on this label, London CallingFind albums on this label, OrbitFind albums on this label, Rox VoxFind albums on this label and Sound StageFind albums on this label. There is no ironclad logic as to what material appears on which label, except perhaps some internal considerations by the Obiterdictum owners.
Approach with caution, but keep in mind that some of these releases are absolutely brilliant!
| | Updated: 24/05/2019Posted: 24/05/2019 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | TONY WILLIAMS / LIFETIME ~ TURN IT OVER
ESOTERIC 2257 (Barcode: 5013929735729) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2011
This is the 2nd album by the revolutionary Tony Williams LifetimeFind albums by this artist, a groundbreaking group created by drummer Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist with British guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and organist Larry YoungFind albums by this artist. On this album the group is extended to a quartet with the inclusion of another great British musician – bassist / vocalist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist. The group was a pioneering force of the Jazz-Rock Fusion and set up not only the standards, which would be followed decades on, but also most of the tricks of the trade for the new and emerging genre. The playing is absolutely incredible, innovative and virtuosic and the music lost absolutely nothing over time, in fact it sounds even better than at the time it was recorded, especially in comparison to contemporary Fusion efforts. This is one of the most influential albums in music history and an absolute must in any decent record collection. Beyond essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
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