A TRIBUTE TO JACK JOHNSON

One from few Miles excellent jazz-rock albums. Contains just two compositions. The musicians all are extra class, including Herbie Hancock, John McLaughlin, Chick Corea,Billy Cobham, Jack DeJohnette,Bennie Maupin and Dave Holland between others.

First composition (or first LP side) is jam-like rockish composition with long interplays between Miles and McLaughlin electric guitar. All other musicians has time for them as well. Most unusual is the sound: clear, not over orchestrated, real rock band's playing sound. All music is groovy, energetic, and sounds more as rock, then jazz. Hancock's electric piano passages only makes this feeling stronger.

Second composition ( and second LP side) is slower and more complex. There are two line-ups, participated on recording. First half is recorded with the same musicians as the first compositions, but final half is recorded with participation of Miles, McLaughlin, Jack DeJohnette, Chick Corea, Bennie Maupin, Dave Holland, and Sonny Sharrock. With bigger accent on complex drumming and bass line, this compositions sounds more like avant-jazz rock piece.

Overall, very electric and energetic, this album is almost unique in it's concept and sound (for Miles). Just imagine Miles playing jams with extra crafted rock band.

Even if accessible, this album is great work for Miles electric ( jazz-rock) period fans and one of style masterpieces.