WHERE HAVE I KNOWN YOU BEFORE

Time has gone so fast. I never imagined that this album was released in 1974 and in fact I had this album in 1983. For your information, since couple of weeks ago, I have played many prog collection from cassette version ranging from Led Zeppelin until Mahavishnu Orchestra. This morning just before I rode my bike for going to work, I played the cassette version of this album. To my surprise, the sound quality is still excellent and I'm impressed with the fact that this cassette was purchased in 1983 - it's been more than 20 years by now!

This album delivers a top notch jazz rock fusion music which comprises great works by legendary musicians: Chick Corea, Lenny White, Stanley Clarke, and Al Di Meola. each musician has their own uniqueness in terms of styles and sounds. Look at AL Di Meola. Yes, there has been many names for guitar musicians but ... the style and sounds of AL Di Meola has created his own identity and no one else can do the same or similar with his hand-picking style as well as sounds. Lenny White is a dazzling drummer with jaw-dropping styles which set a standard in jazz drumming style. I can only compare his style with Steve Gadd. Stanley Clarke's bass guitar playing is also very specific and unique. Who dares to challenge Chick Corea whom his fingers are capable of produncing tight notes at transition pieces with short period. The result is of course an excellent music.

"Shadow Of Lo" (7:34) demonstrates a good style of mellow music with blues influence at the opening part and moves forward into upbeat and a bit complex composition. I can feel how the pulsating keyboard sounds of Chick Corea is beautifully wrapped by fast speed guitar fills by Al Di Meola. Stanley Clarke does his best to perform tight bass lines and picking. Lenny White does not play his drums as gate keeper but he delivers dynamic shoots throughout the song which elevate the emotional impact to its listeners.

Other songs are excellent as well and I admit that this album, overall, is a well composed music and each member has achieved excellent appreciation from the music community. I still remember vividly that I knew the band from the "Music Magic" album and explored further into this album. It's recommended for those who appreciate jazz rock fusion. Keep on proggin' ...!

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW