VISIONS OF THE EMERALD BEYOND

I was reminded a lot of Jean-Luc Ponty's "Enigmatic Ocean" when listening to this record for some reason. Oh yeah, it's because Jean-Luc plays on it ! The first three songs are amazing. Some Funk added to this one as well as vocals, so it's different from the first two classics but of course we have a different lineup too. Only John McLaughlin is left at this point from that classic lineup.

"Eternity's Breath Part 1" features some fantastic drumming from the new guy Michael Walden, and the lower end guitar tone is great, while the violin melodies come and go."Eternity's Breath Part 2" opens with horns and light drums, and features the same vocal melody as part 1 that states "Love supreme, supreme". There is some intricate guitar work that turns into a soaring melody, and then the violin comes in. More amazing drums and piano. "Lila's Dance" opens with some beautiful piano. Lots of violin, and at 3 minutes the drums, guitar and violin melody is awesome.

"Can't Stand Your Funk" is well...funky. "Pastoral" is well...pastoral. "Faith" opens with acoustic guitar and then drums are added.The song ends with guitar and violin. "Cosmic Strut" is a good song, the guitar is great ! The vocals are back on "If I Could See". "Be Happy" is where the guitar and violin set the soundscape on fire. Yes it's uptempo and happy. "Earth Ship" is slower paced, kind of spacey. "Pegasus" is spooky sounding throughout. "On the Way Home To Earth" is another very good song. Opening with clanging cymbals and strange guitar noises. Drums come in, and then we are treated to some amazing, scorching guitar.

Not as good as the first two or "The Lost Trident Sessions" but man this is excellent.