By: M.J. Brady
fter the original M.O. line-up, McLaughlin reinvents the band with a new ensemble that doesn't disappoint, some have had criticism over this LP, but I don't see the rationale, it's every bit as innovative as prior releases, and perhaps the use of female vocals on certain songs were a turn off, but I found this to be no distraction whatsoever - if anything the bands sound seems improved from a production standpoint, and with the addition of bassist Armstrong, and drummer Walden, the band even added some funky flavor to the already technical ladened hyper fusion, and leaned more on McLaughlins' guitar than before. Also Morans' keywork is more of a complimentary role than Hammers' was, as she plays more as accompaniment than soloist,as opposed to Jan's trade offs with McLaughlin on prior LPs, also the acquisition of Ponty on violins was definetly a step forward - he of course brings his superb talents to the mix with great results. All in all this is a very good LP, people will always compare this version of the band with the first, but make no mistake, the players on this CD are of comparable talent and the performances are top shelf.
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Vol. 17, No. 2: Feb.-Mar. 2012
