Often cited as the founders of the whole fusion movement, the band blazed a trail for all that followed them. Formed in New York in ’71 by Yorkshire guitarist, John McLaughlin, he assembled hotshot musicians around at the time. Billy Cobham on drums, Jan Hammer on keys, Rick Laird on bass, and Jerry Goodman on violin. This was the band’s first release way back in ’71. This is the Speakers Corner reissue and sounds superb.
The music on offer here ranges from the pure improv of the opener Meeting of The Spirits, to more structured tunes like Dawn. As you would expect, there is tons of experimentation with sounds and tones – especially with McLaughlin’s guitar and Hammer’s keys. My favourite track is Side 2 opener Vital Transformation, with its manic groove and incredible playing. This is the album that gave McLaughlin almost god status in the guitar world, and lifted Cobham’s credibility in drumming circles. It’s not an album for the casual listener as you have to give it repeated listens to appreciate all what’s going on.
7.5/10 from The Grooveman.
