 Discuss
    |
The truth be told, Where Fortune Smiles was not originally
released under the leadership of John McLaughlin. Its reissue on CD with
McLaughlin as leader seems to exist for marketing purposes only. The
reissue notes indicate a 1971 recording date, but my memories of its
original release on PYE Records suggest that it was recorded a year
earlier. (However, memories can fade.) The other members of the
quintet—bassist Dave Holland, saxophonist John Surman (also on
Extrapolation ), vibist Karl Berger, and drummer Stu Martin—each
contribute equally to this outing.
The compositions, all by McLaughlin and Surman, have strong head arrangements that are not directly quoted in the free improvisations that follow. Fortune does not even hint at rock or fusion. Do not expect any of the usual clear themes, call and response playing, or unison lines. These differences, which may confound many McLaughlin fans, are also its greatest strengths.
Free jazz is what this release is all about. For listeners who don't normally immerse themselves in this sort of thing, it's a record that can be enjoyed only about once a year. But it remains a must-listen. Whoa! Listen...is that a quote which will later turn into “One Word” from Birds Of Fire ? Listen to McLaughlin's far-out guitar. Listen to Holland's resonating bass. Listen to Surman as he reveals things to come. Listen for a historical perspective on music which McLaughlin would later deliver.
Related link: John McLaughlin Reviews @ All About Jazz .
Visit John McLaughlin on the web.
John McLaughlin at All About Jazz.
Track listing: Glancing Backwards; Earth Bound Hearts; Where Fortune Smiles; New
Place, Old Place; Hope
Personnel: John McLaughlin- guitar; John Surman- saxophone; Karl Berger- vibraphone; Stu Martin- drums; Dave Holland- bass
Style: Modern Jazz |
Published: November 20, 2002
More Articles by Walter Kolosky
 |
Mahavishnu Orchestra Visions of the Emerald Beyond |
 |
John McLaughlin Trio Live at the Royal Festival Hall |
 |
Mahavishnu Orchestra The Lost Trident Sessions |
 |
John McLaughlin and The Free Spirits Tokyo Live |
 |
John McLaughlin Time Remembered: John McLaughlin Plays Bill Evans |
 |
Dave Mosick Trio Amalgamation |
|
Most Read: CD Reviews Last 30 Days | All Time |
Most Read: Articles Last 30 Days | All Time |
Upcoming events for John McLaughlin:
