Record Reviews
61 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | ARTI & MESTIERI ~ FIRST LIVE IN JAPAN
MOONJUNE 012 (Barcode: 692287901226) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2006
Italian Prog / Fusion ensemble Arti & MestieriFind albums by this artist was formed in the early 1970s and has been active on the scene continuously, releasing new albums from time to time. The band´s leader, drummer Furio ChircoFind albums by this artist, is definitely one of Fusion´s most extraordinary figures, often compared to Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist (at his prime). The keyboardist Beppe CrovellaFind albums by this artist is also an outstanding player, using an array of analog instruments. Together the band sounds like a combination of the best 1970s Fusion bands (Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, FlockFind albums by this artist, Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist, etc.), but with a distinct Italian touch, evident mostly in the beautiful melodic lines. This live recording captures the current lineup of the band (a septet with vocals, violin, sax, guitar, keyboards, bass and drums) performing in front of an ecstatic Japanese audience. The material includes two long mini-suites, which present the material from the band´s first two legendary albums from the 1970s: "TiltFind albums with this title" and "Giro Di Valzer Per DomaniFind albums by this artist", as well a selection of newer compositions. The band´s overall sound is purposely "retro", which of course is even more delightful. This is an absolute must, not only for the many fans of this legendary band, but for every Prog / Fusion enthusiasts. When we (often) say "they don´t make music like this any more", this album is one of the very few exceptions to the rule. Don´t even think twice!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JEFF BECK ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS
SONY 888751056329 (Barcode: 888751056329) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 - 1977 Released: 2015
This Box Set collects reissues of five albums by the legendary British guitarist / composer / bandleader Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, originally released on the EpicFind albums on this label label between 1971 and 1977. They are: “Rough And ReadyFind albums with this title” (1971), “Jeff Beck GroupFind albums with this title” (1972), “Blow By BlowFind albums with this title” (1975), “WiredFind albums with this title” (1976) and “Jeff Beck With The Jan Hammer Group LiveFind albums with this title” (1977). Those are the third to seventh albums recorded by Jeff Beck, except the two albums (one studio and one live) recorded by him as part of the short lived Beck, Bogert & AppiceFind albums by this artist trio.
The first two albums included here were recorded by the second incarnation of the Jeff Back GroupFind albums by this artist (the first incarnation recorded the first two Back’s albums “TruthFind albums with this title” and “Beck-OlaFind albums with this title”), which included vocalist Bobby TrenchFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Max MiddletonFind albums by this artist, bassist Clive ChamanFind albums by this artist and drummer Cozy PowellFind albums by this artist. Stylistically these were transitional albums between Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion, which was Beck’s main interest in the years that followed.
The next two albums present some of Beck’s most admired work as a guitarist, both being purely instrumental and clearly moving deeply into Jazz-Rock Fusion, but with the unique characteristics of his superb sense of melody and fabulous improvisational abilities, which have but a few equals among the world’s guitar heroes. Beck is accompanied by Middleton, bassist Phil ChenFind albums by this artist and drummer Richard BaileyFind albums by this artist on “Blow By Blow” and Middleton and Czech keyboardist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, American bassist Wilbur BascombFind albums by this artist and drummer Narada Michael WaldenFind albums by this artist on “Wired”.
The live album is a full-blown Fusion affair on which Back is supported by Hammer and an all American team of violinist Steve KindlerFind albums by this artist, bassist Fernando SaundersFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony SmithFind albums by this artist. Not surprisingly the music sounds not far from Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist.
Overall this is a real treat to all guitar fans and undeniably some of the most exciting music recorded in the 1970s.
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: 31/07/2021Posted: 31/07/2021 | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK BRUCE ~ BIRD ALONE
NEPTUNE 114 (Barcode: 5050693101527) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1980 Released: 2001
What a delight it is to see (and hear) this piece of history being released. Any previously unknown piece of recording by Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, the legendary composer, singer and bass player and one of the most distinctive voices of our era. This album documents a live performance of the Jack Bruce Band in Denver in 1980. The band included Jack Bruce – vocals, bass & piano, David SanciousFind albums by this artist – keyboards & guitar, Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist (ColosseumFind albums by this artist) – guitar and Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist (Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist) – drums, a dreamy lineup by any standard. The repertoire of the concert spans the entire Jack’s career, from the CreamFind albums by this artist days and through his wonderful solo albums released in the 1970s. His unique voice is in top form and the performances are spirited and inspired. The sound quality might not be top notch, but considering that this is a soundboard recording, which was never intended for release, it’s not too bad. I wouldn’t hesitate even a fraction of a second if to get this one, as the historic importance of this recording surpassed by far any sound imperfections. A must to all Jack Bruce disciples!
| | | CD 2 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 |
  | DREAMS ~ DREAMS / IMAGINE MY SURPRISE
BGO 0940 (Barcode: 5017261209405) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2010
The fantastic US Jazz-Rock ensemble DreamsFind albums by this artist, which unfortunately recorded only two albums, both included here, was one of the best examples of the American branch of Brass-Rock, a relatively short-lived sub genre of Jazz-Rock, which also included such superb ensembles like Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, ChicagoFind albums by this artist, ChaseFind albums by this artist and a few others. Dreams originated in NY and had a somewhat flexible lineup of associated musicians, but the importance of these two albums is mainly due to the fact that they provided a debut recording opportunity to some of the genre´s most iconic figures: brothers -Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist (saxophone) and Randy BreckerFind albums by this artist (trumpet) - and drummer Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist. Other Dreams members were already established figures on the scene, like bassist Doug LubahnFind albums by this artist (DoorsFind albums by this artist), guitarist John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Don GrolnickFind albums by this artist. Other group members were keyboardist / guitarist Jeff KentFind albums by this artist, trombonist Barry RogersFind albums by this artist, vocalist Edward VernonFind albums by this artist, bassist Will LeeFind albums by this artist and guitarist / trumpeter Bob MannFind albums by this artist. Musically the group mixed genres freely, with Jazz, Funk, Rock and Soul adopted at will and beautifully arranged to create some of the most memorable sounds of the period. The music is just perfect; although spontaneous and improvised, every note is just exactly where it belongs, every drum beat precisely on time, every phrase brilliantly placed, every tempo change and every instrumental solo and above all the overall interplay are just what a music fun needs – pure genius. It is hard to believe that a bunch of young musician was capable of producing such magnificent music, but then on the other hand considering that Dreams seeded Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, Brecker BrothersFind albums by this artist and many other heroes of the Jazz and Fusion scene, perhaps one should not wonder. I own both these albums since the day they were released and have listened to them repeatedly over the years, always enjoying myself immensely and it was me who suggested to BGOFind albums on this label to reissue them – I´m glad they did! Now many more potential listeners have the opportunity to hear them as well – enjoy as this is essential stuff!
| | Updated: 28/02/2024Posted: | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ENERGIT ~ ENERGIT (EXPANDED EDITION)
GAD 220 (Barcode: 5903068123283) ~ CZECHOSLOVAKIA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 - 1976 Released: 2022
This is a 2CD reissue of the debut album by the Czechoslovak Jazz-Rock Fusion ensemble EnergitFind albums by this artist. It is a brilliant document of the music scene, which thrived in Eastern Europe behind the Iron Curtain, in all the so-called "Socialist" countries, and was every bit as interesting, groundbreaking and visionary as anything else happening at the same time in Western Europe or the USA. In spite of political pressures, artistic censorship and economic hardships, with very limited access to recordings from the West, decent equipment or proper recording facilities, these young and ambitious musicians were exploding with ideas and boldly exploring new territories. The resulting music created at the time remains completely relevant today and should be rediscovered by young audiences, as it lost absolutely nothing of its power and intellectual quality.
Energit was formed by the brilliant guitarist Lubos AndrstFind albums by this artist, after he left the legendary Jazz QFind albums by this artist ensemble, joining forces with two excellent young musicians from another legendary ensemble SHQFind albums by this artist: keyboardist Emil ViklickyFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Rudolf TichacekFind albums by this artist. The lineup was completed by bassist Jan VytrhlikFind albums by this artist and alternating drummers: Karel JencikFind albums by this artist, Anatoli KohoutFind albums by this artist and Josef VojevodaFind albums by this artist. Percussionist Jiri TomekFind albums by this artist guests on two tracks. Andrst wrote all of the original material performed by the ensemble, which although Blues influenced, was at the time centered on the Jazz-Rock Fusion idiom, similar in sound and obviously influenced mostly by Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, but also by Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist or Weather ReportFind albums by this artist.
The first CD presents the original album, which offers five tracks, with the opening 17+ minutes long and the closing tracks being parts of a suite. The second CD presents seven tracks of bonus material, two recorded live, four originating from a radio broadcast and one from a TV broadcast, from which four are previously unreleased. The reissue is accompanied by extensive bi-lingual liner notes, as usual with the superb GADFind albums on this label Record releases, which cover the group’s history and other background information.
Overall, this is some of the best Eastern European Jazz-Rock Fusion, which should not be missed by any connoisseur of the genre, especially those interested in music originating from behind the Iron Curtain. A must!
| | Updated: 23/12/2022Posted: 23/12/2022 | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ENERGIT ~ ENERGIT / PIKNIK (CZECHOSLOVAK JAZZ-ROCK EXPANDED EDITION)
INDIES HAPPY TRAILS 626 (Barcode: 8595026662629) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 - 1978 Released: 2008
This wonderful reissue collects all the recordings by the Czechoslovak ensemble EnergitFind albums by this artist. It is a brilliant document of the music scene, which thrived in Eastern Europe behind the Iron Curtain, in all the so-called "Socialist" countries, and was every bit as interesting, groundbreaking and visionary as anything else happening at the same time in Western Europe or the USA. In spite of political pressures, artistic censorship and economic hardships, with very limited access to recordings from the West, decent equipment or proper recording facilities, these young and ambitious musicians were exploding with ideas and boldly exploring new territories. The resulting music created at the time remains completely relevant today and should be rediscovered by young audiences, as it lost absolutely nothing of its power and intellectual quality.
Energit was formed by the brilliant guitarist Lubos AndrstFind albums by this artist, after he left the legendary Jazz QFind albums by this artist ensemble, joining forces with two excellent young musicians from another legendary ensemble SHQFind albums by this artist: keyboardist Emil ViklickyFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Rudolf TichacekFind albums by this artist. The lineup was completed by bassist Jan VytrhlikFind albums by this artist and drummer Karel JencikFind albums by this artist. Andrst wrote most of the all-original material performed by the ensemble, which although Blues influenced, was at the time centered on the Jazz-Rock idiom, similar in sound to the early Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist.
For the second album Viklicky was replaced by Milan SvobodaFind albums by this artist, who also wrote the brass arrangement used on that album, and Jencik was replaced by Jaromir HelesicFind albums by this artist.
The bonus material includes an ultra-rare EP, a track released previously on a compilation album and some archival live recordings. In retrospect this is some of the best Eastern European Jazz-Rock, which should not be missed by any connoisseur of the genre. A must!
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: 28/02/2020Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks 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 |
  | 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 |
  | ISOTOPE ~ DEEP END
ESOTERIC 2274 (Barcode: 5013929737426) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2011
After playing with Brian AugerFind albums by this artist, Stomu Yamash`taFind albums by this artist and many leading Jazz ensembles, guitarist / composer Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist, one of the most innovative and technically brilliant players on the British scene, eventually founded his own quartet, called IsotopeFind albums by this artist. In retrospect, Isotope was one of the finest early British Jazz-Rock ensembles, which played ambitious music and included some of the best players on the scene at the time. But as usual, playing fine music made it difficult to keep the group going for a long time, so after recording three excellent albums and sticking together for a few years, Isotope disappeared into oblivion. This was their 3rd and last album and the group was expanded into a quintet and included keyboardists Frank RobertsFind albums by this artist and Zoe KronbergerFind albums by this artist, bassist Dan K. BrownFind albums by this artist and drummer Nigel MorrisFind albums by this artist (who played with Boyle in Yamash`ta’s group) as well as several guest musicians. The music is brilliant from start to finish, slightly resembling Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, but of course completely original. This is an absolute must to all early British Jazz-Rock connoisseurs!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | ISOTOPE ~ ILLUSION
ESOTERIC 2273 (Barcode: 5013929737327) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2011
After playing with Brian AugerFind albums by this artist, Stomu Yamash`taFind albums by this artist and many leading Jazz ensembles, guitarist / composer Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist, one of the most innovative and technically brilliant players on the British scene, eventually founded his own quartet, called IsotopeFind albums by this artist. In retrospect, Isotope was one of the finest early British Jazz-Rock ensembles, which played ambitious music and included some of the best players on the scene at the time. But as usual, playing fine music made it difficult to keep the group going for a long time, so after recording three excellent albums and sticking together for a few years, Isotope disappeared into oblivion. This was their 2nd album and the quartet included keyboardist Laurence ScottFind albums by this artist, great bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist (Soft MachineFind albums by this artist) and drummer Nigel MorrisFind albums by this artist (Hopper and Morris played with Boyle in Yamash`ta’s group). The music is brilliant from start to finish, slightly resembling Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, but of course completely original. This is an absolute must to all early British Jazz-Rock connoisseurs!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ISOTOPE ~ ISOTOPE
ESOTERIC 2272 (Barcode: 5013929737228) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2011
After playing with Brian AugerFind albums by this artist, Stomu Yamash`taFind albums by this artist and many leading Jazz ensembles, guitarist / composer Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist, one of the most innovative and technically brilliant players on the British scene, eventually founded his own quartet, called IsotopeFind albums by this artist. In retrospect, Isotope was one of the finest early British Jazz-Rock ensembles, which played ambitious music and included some of the best players on the scene at the time. But as usual, playing fine music made it difficult to keep the group going for a long time, so after recording three excellent albums and sticking together for a few years, Isotope disappeared into oblivion. This was their 1st album and the quartet included keyboardist Brian MillerFind albums by this artist (who also wrote most of the music on this album), great bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist (NucleusFind albums by this artist) and drummer Nigel MorrisFind albums by this artist (who played with Boyle in Yamash`ta’s group). The music is brilliant from start to finish, slightly resembling Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, but of course completely original. This is an absolute must to all early British Jazz-Rock connoisseurs!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered 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 |
  | EERO KOIVISTOINEN / NORDJAZZ QUINTET ~ JAZZ LIISA VOL. 13 & VOL. 14
SVART 094 (Barcode: 6430065583011) ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 - 1975 Released: 2017
Saxophonist / composer / bandleader Eero KoivistoinenFind albums by this artist is one of the Godfathers of modern Finnish Jazz with a career spanning six decades and a glorious legacy of recorded music spanning a wide range of stylistic explorations. The live radio broadcast captured here presents Koivistoinen and his quartet: pianist Heikki SarmantoFind albums by this artist (another iconic figure of the Finnish Jazz scene), his brother Pekka SarmantoFind albums by this artist on bass and drummer Reino LaineFind albums by this artist, hosting the superb Belgian guitarist Philip CatherineFind albums by this artist, who visited Finland at the time. On one track the quintet is expanded to a sextet when joined by the Bulgarian trumpeter Reicho IvanovFind albums by this artist.
They perform five original compositions, two composed by Catherine, and one each by Danish trumpeter Palle MikkelborgFind albums by this artist, Koivistoinen and Ivanov. The music is highly electric (Sarmanto plays electric piano, Catherine electric guitar and even Ivanov plays an electric trumpet – see the Fusion group Eleventh HouseFind albums by this artist led by Larry CoryellFind albums by this artist, which had a similar lineup), which results in a charged Fusion fury, comparable to the best work of Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, and offering some of the finest quality of the genre ever recorded.
I am happy to say that Koivistoinen and Heikki Sarmanto have been my friends since decades and I had the immense pleasure to write liner notes for their albums.
The Nordjazz QuintetFind albums by this artist was a collaborative ensemble combining Jazz musicians from the Nordic countries (as opposed to Scandinavian, which means only Denmark, Norway and Sweden and not Finland and Iceland). The lineup changed over time and the one captured on this live broadcast includes Finnish saxophonist / flautist Pekka PoyryFind albums by this artist, Danish pianist Ole Kock HansenFind albums by this artist, Norwegian guitarist Nils Petter NyrenFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Kjell JanssonFind albums by this artist and Icelandic drummer Petur OstlundFind albums by this artist.
They perform three original compositions, one composed by Hansen and two composed by Finnish Jazz musicians, both keyboardists / composers, not members of the ensemble: Olli AhvenlahtiFind albums by this artist and Jukka LinkolaFind albums by this artist. The music serves as basis for extended improvisations within the Fusion oriented idiom, featuring extensive soloing.
These two sessions are ideally matched together and this CD is definitely one of the strongest and most coherent within the Jazz Liisa series.
Overall this is some of the most staggering music created in Europe in the early to mid 1970s that one is able to hear and for European Jazz connoisseurs this is an absolute must have!
Side Note
The Finnish independent label SvartFind albums on this label Records released an unprecedented series of albums called Pop Liisa and Jazz Liisa, which present priceless historical recordings of Finnish Rock, Progressive Rock, Jazz-Rock Fusion and Jazz music, recorded live and broadcasted from the Liisankatu Studios in Helsinki under the "Popstudio" and "Jazzstudio" monikers between 1972 and 1977. The studios were owned by the YLE (Finnish Broadcasting Company), a public broadcasting service, which not only allowed the burgeoning Finnish music scene at the time to be exposed but also carefully archived the recordings for future generations. All this incredible music was previously unissued and collectively is probably the most important document of Finnish music from that period ever assembled.
The music was released on 36 LPs (Pop Liisa Vol. 01 to Vol. 18 and Jazz Liisa Vol. 01 to Vol. 18) and on 18 CDs with every two consecutive volumes combined on one CD.
The sound quality is absolutely superb, often better than the sound quality on the LPs released by these artists at the time. Many of the groups appearing on these albums never managed to record an album and these recordings are the only recorded legacy in existence of their activity. The released are accompanied by well researched and intelligent liner notes.
This archival project is an outstanding example of how Cultural Legacy should be treated as well as of exemplary dedication to record producing professionalism.
| | Updated: 13/06/2020Posted: 13/06/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA ~ BETWEEN NOTHINGNESS & ETERNITY
COLUMBIA 32766 (Barcode: 074643276627) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 1990
3rd album and the last one by the original line-up of Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist. This live recording includes just 3 extended pieces (the longest being 21+ minutes), which of course gives ample space for the virtuosi players to expand their flashy abilities and establish the meaning of Fusion for generations to follow. Criticized at the time of its release as lacking musical direction, in retrospect this music proves yet again that it is much more lasting than any critic.
| | | CD 1 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.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | 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.
| | | CD 1 Essential 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 ~ 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.
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | 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 ~ 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!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | 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 |
  | TED NOVAK ~ RURAL CRISIS
NOT ON LABEL ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2014 Released: 2014
This is the debut album by Polish guitarist Ted NovakFind albums by this artist, recorded with a trio which also includes Polish Jazz veterans: bassist Krzysztof PacanFind albums by this artist and drummer Pawel DobrowolskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight compositions, seven of which are Novak originals and the remaining one is a Miles DavisFind albums by this artist tune. The music was recorded at the excellent Studio Tokarnia with Jan SmoczynskiFind albums by this artist presiding, as usual, at the console. This is the first heavily electric production that comes to my attention recorded at Studio Tokarnia, which usually excels at acoustic music, and once again I must raise my hat to Mr. Smoczynski for his incredible skills as a sound magician.
From the first note heard on this album the listener is exposed to an unfamiliar electric guitar sound, which is pretty original and surprising. After many decades, where the music scene was under complete guitar domination, one is sure that everything that is possible to do with a guitar was already done, but apparently the surprises never cease to pop up. However after a couple of tunes the guitar tone and sound effects get absorbed by our brain and we get back to a quite familiar world of heavy Fusion, which although has some improvisational elements, is much closer to Rock than to Jazz, especially rhythmically.
Guitar pyrotechnics are unfortunately a very perilous and slippery ground; how much of it is sheer genius and how much is just a show off and boring repetitious doodling? It´s for the listener to decide in every specific case, and those opinions will probably vary quite a bit. Personally I must say that I have heard all of this before, after all I was lucky to hear Jimmy HendrixFind albums by this artist, Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist and all other significant guitar players in person and at their prime. But does it mean that this album has no merit at all? Not at all, I´m quite sure that many guitar aficionados will absolutely love the distorted, echoing guitar screams to bits. Combined with the unusual sound, superb rhythm section and excellent sound quality, this album is actually a lot of fun.
But the album has its drawbacks: with just slightly over half an hour of music it is hardly a full CD and should really be treated as an EP, especially if someone is going to buy it (if that happens at all any more). The Fusion listeners might find it too Rocky and the Rock listeners might find it too complicated. Life is a bitch…I´m already waiting for the next adventure!
| | | CD 1 Digipak 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.
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JEAN-LUC PONTY ~ LIVE
WOUNDED BIRD 9229 (Barcode: 664140922921) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2003
French violinist Jean-Luc PontyFind albums by this artist already had a distinguished jazz career behind him when he arrived in the US to join Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist and later Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist. After leaving MO Ponty recorded a stream of brilliant fusion albums leading his own group, which featured some of the best fusion players on the scene. His amazing technique and extraordinary sense of melody make him one othe most important players of the genre. This live recording of his group includes two of his most popular tunes: `Aurora` and `Imaginary Voyage` and is a classic recording of the genre.
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANNIE ROSS ~ ME AND MY BABY – AN EVENING WITH ANNIE ROSS
VOCALION 8451 (Barcode: 765387845124) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2009
British singer Annie RossFind albums by this artist has spent many years in the USA, where she came to fame as one of the most important and innovative Jazz vocalists and is mostly known for her part in the vocal trio Lambert, Hendricks & RossFind albums by this artist, which revolutionized the group vocal approach in Jazz. Upon her return to the UK, Ross continued to record, perform and even acted in the movies. This album is a document of her one-women show at the Hampstead Theatre, where she performed a vide range of Jazz, Bossa Nova and even Progressive Rock (yes! She sings a King CrimsonFind albums by this artist song as well) material, accompanied by a wonderful band, which included keyboardist Dave MacRaeFind albums by this artist (another Prog connection, as we was at the time a member of Matching MoleFind albums by this artist), guitarist Gordon EdwardsFind albums by this artist, bassist Rick LairdFind albums by this artist (Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist) and drummer Dave MontgomeryFind albums by this artist. This was 1971 and anything was possible! Of course this recording is very different from what most Annie Ross fans would expect to hear from her, and therefore quite special in every way. I have no idea how many people are even aware of this rare album, but surely many will be interested to check it out!
| | | CD 1 Remastered 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 / 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 |
  | SIDE STEPS ~ STEPS ON EDGE
MUSEA 4511 (Barcode: 3426300045119) ~ JAPAN ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1993 Released: 2003
1st album by Japanese Prog / Fusion quartet Side StepsFind albums by this artist, which was one of the most promising and interesting debut Fusion albums of the 1990s. The band features the classic guitar / keyboards / bass / drums lineup and plays amazing instrumental music, usually at neck-breaking speed. These young musicians seem to have mastered their instruments from the cradle, otherwise it’s quite impossible to explain the virtuosity displayed here. The compositions are equally strong, which makes this album a particularly enjoyable experience. Stylistically the band borrows some of their elements from UzebFind albums by this artist, Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist and many other (mostly European) Fusion masters, but they definitely have enough originality to be considered masters on their own. If you like fiery Fusion like Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist and beyond, you will enjoy this album immensely. Highly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAROSLAW SMIETANA ~ A TRIBUTE TO ZBIGNIEW SEIFERT
JSR 0011 (Barcode: 5901119902399) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2009
This is a stunning tribute album to the Polish violin virtuoso / composer Zbigniew SeifertFind albums by this artist by the great Polish guitarist Jaroslaw SmietanaFind albums by this artist and his band: pianist Piotr WylezolFind albums by this artist, bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist, drummer Adam CzerwinskiFind albums by this artist and percussionist Slawomir BernyFind albums by this artist. Keyboardist Janusz GrzywaczFind albums by this artist guests on two tracks. Smietana invited nine leading Jazz violinists to play along with this fabulous band, performing Seifert´s wonderful compositions. They are: Jerry GoodmanFind albums by this artist (ex-Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, USA), Mateusz SmoczynskiFind albums by this artist (Poland), Didier LockwoodFind albums by this artist (France), Krzesimir DebskiFind albums by this artist (Poland), Christian HowesFind albums by this artist (USA), Mark FeldmanFind albums by this artist (USA), Maciej StrzelczykFind albums by this artist (Poland), Adam BaldychFind albums by this artist (Poland) and Pierre BlanchardFind albums by this artist (France). These nine virtuosi play like there´s no tomorrow and the resulting music is simply a breathtaking trip into Seifert´s world. This is such a conglomerate of talent, that anything said beyond this would be simply superfluous. Simply grab this ASAP, as you are about to take trip of your life – violin heaven indeed!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAY-TEE TETERISSA ~ DON`T JAY WALK
NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 9789079496112) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2010
This is the 2nd album by Dutch bass virtuoso Jay-Tee TeterissaFind albums by this artist, a superb player and composer, who remains relatively unknown, although his talents put him in the front row of today´s Fusion Masters. Recorded with an excellent team of great musicians, which includes US guitar hero Mike SternFind albums by this artist, Canadian bassist Alain CaronFind albums by this artist, Dutch keyboardist Jeroen van ItersonFind albums by this artist, guitarist Martijn van ItersonFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Tom BeekFind albums by this artist and drummer Marcel LatupeirissaFind albums by this artist, this is one of the best Fusion albums I´ve heard in a very long time. Completely fresh and full of energies, which remind me of the early days of Fusion, when Weather ReportFind albums by this artist, Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist and other brilliant ensembles were breaking sound barriers and stylistic limitations. Of course these players perform brilliantly, as expected, but performance alone is not enough to make an album work, the music they play is the real deal. Co-composed by Jay-Tee Teterissa and Jeroen van Iterson it is first-rate from start to finish, from the first note to the last, from top to bottom, with great melody lines, perfect harmonies and powerful driving rhythms. Add to this excellent production, arrangements and sound quality and you have a Fusion gem of rare beauty. Jay-Tee´s bass sounds sometimes like a lead guitar and sometimes like a pulse of a sprinter. The keyboardist plays a superb Fender piano, which takes the music on a retro trip on occasion. In short this is one great Fusion album, which no fan of the genre should miss. A must!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | STAN TRACEY ~ LAUGHIN` AND SCRATCHIN`
JAZZ HOUSE 608 (Barcode: 751848670824) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1965 Released: 1997
This is an album which presents archival / informal recordings by the Godfather of modern British Jazz, pianist / composer Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist, recorded live in a trio format at the famous Ronnie Scott´s Club in London, featuring bassist Rick LairdFind albums by this artist (later of Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist fame) and drummers Ronnie StephensonFind albums by this artist or Bill EydenFind albums by this artist. The trio performs seven pieces, two of which are originals by Tracey and five are standards.
Between 1959 and 1965 Tracey and his trio served as the house band at the Ronnie Scott´s Club (the original one at Gerrard Street) and accompanied scores of visiting musicians, mostly from the US, such as Johnny GriffinFind albums by this artist, Sonny RollinsFind albums by this artist, Ben WebsterFind albums by this artist, Stan GetzFind albums by this artist, Wes MontgomeryFind albums by this artist, Roland KirkFind albums by this artist and many, many more. Playing with these Giants obviously served as a wonderful opportunity for Tracey to polish his chops, but more importantly to develop his own style as a player and composer, which differed from the standard American Bebop approach.
The selections included on this album are all pretty long in duration and as such are wonderful documents of Tracey´s idiosyncrasies as a piano player, with his quite unique approach to the instrument, similar in some ways to what Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist was doing. Tracey plays mostly chords, vamping and boogieing all over the keyboard, only occasionally playing out the melody notes. His interpretation of the Monk tune present here is simply amazing.
The rhythm section bravely keeps up with the governor, standing with him shoulder to shoulder even during the unexpected twists and turns he takes along the way. Although the sound quality of this album is far from ideal, the music is absolutely stunning and more than compensates for the technical limitations.
Albums like this are precious pieces of Jazz history captured for eternity, which are still valid today and are definitely worth listening to, especially by the young generation, which missed it in real time. Great stuff!
| | Updated: 24/03/2016Posted: 24/03/2016 | CD 1 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.
| | | CD 1 Digipak 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 |
|
