Record Reviews

GINGER BAKER / AIR FORCE ~ AIR FORCE LEMON 022 (Barcode: 5013929762220) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion Recorded: 1970 Released: 2004 1st album by the legendary ensemble Air ForceFind albums by this artist, formed by drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist following the collapse of the two Rock super-groups he was a member of: CreamFind albums by this artist and Blind FaithFind albums by this artist. Baker formed the ensemble to pursue the music he was truly interested in, which included Jazz and African Music. He managed to persuade a large number of British luminaries to join forces in this ambitious project, creating a first of its kind Jazz-Rock-World Fusion ensemble. The list of the participants reads like a who´s who of the British music scene at the time and includes: Steve WinwoodFind albums by this artist (organ and vocals) and Rick GrechFind albums by this artist (bass) – both ex-Blind Faith, Graham BondFind albums by this artist, Denny LaineFind albums by this artist, Chris WoodFind albums by this artist, the great Harold McNairFind albums by this artist and Baker´s revered teacher and legendary British Jazz drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist. The first album was recorded live at the Royal Albert Hall and was originally released as a double LP. The music is a wonderful mixture of Jazz, Rock and World Music, performed with passion and virtuosity. The lengthy tracks allow for extended instrumental improvisations and the two drummers have ample opportunity to engage in mighty duels. In retrospect the album is visionary and educational, allowing a glimpse at a time when musical dreams were realized. This pioneering effort is a wonderful legacy for generations to come and includes many unforgettable moments. Unavailable for decades, this CD reissue is a wonderful opportunity to get familiar with a piece of musical legacy, which remains untouched by time. Absolutely not to be missed!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

TRAFFIC ~ JOHN BARLEYCORN MUST DIE (DELUXE EDITION) ISLAND 533241 (Barcode: 0600753324110) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1970 Released: 2011 What started as a solo project by singer / keyboardist / guitarist / composer Steve WinwoodFind albums by this artist, following the demise of the short-lived supergroup Blind FaithFind albums by this artist, eventually led to the reunion of the legendary TrafficFind albums by this artist, when saxophonist / flautist Chris WoodFind albums by this artist and drummer Jim CapaldiFind albums by this artist joined Winwood in the studio to record this masterpiece, which was the 4th Traffic album. Stronger and more consistent than the previous recordings made by the group, which were experimental and daring but lacked stylistic unity, this album was relaxed and perfectly executed, with a beautiful and well balanced mixture of styles and influences, from British Folk to Progressive Rock. Four decades later this music still sounds divine and absolutely stunning and with the newly remastered sound is a true gem and an absolute classic. This new edition also adds a whole CD of previously unreleased material, which includes alternate mixes and a live Traffic performance captured at The Fillmore East. Essential stuff!

CD 2 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend