THE ELEVENTH HOUSE: INTRODUCING THE ELEVENTH HOUSE WITH LARRY CORYELL

The debut and best album by the Eleventh House, a band around Larry Coryell and Alphonse Mouzon, two fusion superstars. Stellar line-up is augmented by Randy Brecker who would only stay for one album. Trumpet, guitar and drums are the most impressive elements of the Eleventh House sound. The album opens with the impressive and energetic "Birdfingers" that is on par with any other best fusion stuff however it reminds of dynamic Mahavishnu Orchestra. One would wish that is isn't over after 3 minutes, could have easily lasted for 10 minutes. "The funky waltz" is more subdued by playful and funky rhythm does not deteriorate the quality of music. Good soloing by guitar and trumpet. "Low-lee-tah" is the first piece where the top quality sinks a bit as the composition is quite simple and there is less than more notes being played. "Adam Smasher" is deceitfully simple track but soloing is tasty, I like the right balance of power and emotions by Coryell. "Joyride" is another slowlier piece; it features some bluesy guitar soloing and thoughtful development of the composition. "Yin" is a dynamic piece, after a long time of more introspective material. It's mainly a vehicle for drums, guitar and some trumpet. But let's not forget an adventureous guitar/Moog tandem. "Theme for a dream" gives time to breath out by tasty and mellow guitar playing whereas solo guitar is features in the "Gratitude A so low". "Right On Y'All" provides suitable finale with an improvisation feeling.

This a high-quality first-rate fusion stuff but not consistent enough to be 5-star, so 4.5 stars awarded.