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John McLaughlin and Mahavishnu: Adventures in Radioland
The new Mahavishnu was a powerhouse of a fusion band and featured, along with McLaughlin, the overly talented keyboardist Mitchel Forman, former Miles' sideman saxophonist Bill Evans, former Metheny drummer Danny Gottlieb and the amazing bassist, Jonas Hellborg. This album cooks. McLaughlin plays guitar synth, less so than on the previous comeback release of Mahavishnu (recently re-released on Wounded Bird Records). He also employs electric and acoustic guitars and burns through the upbeat, elevating tunes. McLaughlin, Forman and Evans all contribute compositions to the mix. This allows for a variety that is more than welcome.
Highlights include “Florianapolis,” “The Wall Will Fall,” and “Mitch Match.” The interplay between McLaughlin and Forman is a particular pleasing affair. Forman is a near genius. Every effort should be made to obtain his solo recordings, especially his earlier releases. But, all the players are strong and confident. This album proved that FUSION could be good music again!
A sloppily produced reissue was released by Verve. The sound and the tunes are the same but it lists Abraham Wechter as playing the acoustic guitar. Come on Verve, you dummies! Abe made the guitar - he didn't play it!
Related link: John McLaughlin Reviews @ All About Jazz
Track Listing
The Wait; Just Ideas; Jozy; Half-man-Half Cookie; Florianapolis; Gotta Dance; The Wall will Fall; Reincarnation; Mitch Match; 20th Century Ltd
Personnel
John McLaughlin
guitarJohn McLaughlin- guitars; Bill Evans- all saxophones; Mitchel Forman- keyboards; Jonas Hellborg- bass guitar; Danny Gottlieb- drums
Album information
Title: Adventures in Radioland | Year Released: 2002 | Record Label: Verve Music Group
About John McLaughlin
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