Go-To Album 3

Art Farmer - Something You Got
CTI 7080

I scored go-to albums 1-3 all during 2002, all at the same store. This particular one I didn't warm up to right away; I misinterpreted the intentions of Art & producer Creed Taylor. Indeed, if you don't have your ears on, track 1 sounds hokey. But there's some fine things going down on that one and throughout. It features two out-of-sight compositions by arranger David Matthews, "Flute Song" and "Hombre del Sol"; a good-time cover of "Sandu", as well as the title track. The emotional highlight comes on the amazing ballad "Saudhade". Wonderful performances from Farmer, Yusef Lateef, Hiram Bullock, Harvie Swartz on bass, Sue Evans on percussion and Jim Madison on drums.

The album definitely captures a moment in time (1977), but it captures it at it's finest - I never get tired of the buoyant mood! 

Go-To Album 2

Spaces - Larry Coryell

Some personnel shared with Go-To Album 1 - namely Corea and McLaughlin, who once again only play on a few tracks together - "Chris" on the original album, and "Tyrone" on the Planet End album from the same recording sessions.
 

I won't even try describing the sounds on this album - it is for many, including myself, everything a fusion album should be, with none of the trappings. No overindulgence, no self-importance - just some seriously well thought out and executed music that seems to flow effortlessly and liberally, in spite of the prowess shown by all. Once you've heard it and gotten to know it - you'll be spoiled and want to find a whole bunch more albums just like it; but there are nearly none, making it all the more precious.

Go-To Album 1

 

Joe Farrell Quartet - CTI 6003

1970, the fourth release on CTI, and a basic hijacking of Miles' early fusion group. The music is entirely different, though - from the tie-die groove of "Follow Your Heart" (in 11/8), to introspective freakouts like "Alter Ego" and then all-out psycho freakouts (thanks mostly to Chick) on "Motion". Everything else is rather pretty and memorable, and everyone's playing is prime. Chick plays on 9 of the tracks, McLaughlin on 2, and they're only on 1 together. Still - it's a startling release in every way. Grab it if you see it; and if you see the CD release, I will do your dishes for 3 months in exchange.

L-R ~ Chick & John, Jack De Johnette, Dave Holland, Chick Corea

Here's a taste from youtube: