Lenny White was one of the founders of Jazz/Rock pioneers, Return To Forever. Other than the band and his solo records, he has been involved with squillions of recordings whether as a producer (Chaka Khan) or sideman (Stanley Clarke) – Lenny has been very prolific. This album was Lenny’s first solo outing away from Return To Forever, and I’ll admit, the only thing that drew me in was the involvement of guitarist Ray Gomez. Differing quite a bit from the fusion of his day job, this album goes from the out and out funk of Chicken Fried Steak, to the way out ambient Prog noodling of The Venusian Summer Suite. He, it was the seventies and anything was possible as record companies gave artists time to breath.
There is no doubt that Lenny is an absolute monster drummer and he has groove attached to his soul, and this a very interesting release for a drummer’s solo album. Definitely no extended drum solos, just killer grooves and beats that drive the tunes along. My favourite track is Mating Drive, which features Ray Gomez on guitar and is fusion at its finest. Everything about this track is awesome multiplied by ten. Lots of improv which I love. Special mention to Prince Of The Sea, which has Larry Coryell and Al DiMeola on guitar – another epic track. Fusion is way under the radar today, which is a shame, as the seventies guys open the door to a lot of great music.
8/10 from The Grooveman.
