JOHN ABERCROMBIE & RALPH TOWNER: SARGASSO SEA

This is a gorgeous album for a late spring/early summers day...as it is in the north of England today. Again, I understand that as the classifications stand, this had to go somewhere but most here would expect something different if they came to this wanting jazz/rock fusion.

What you get is a sublime acoustic interplay between the two protagonists with Towner putting some sympathetic classical infused as well as jazz tinged keys when and where required (Parasol)in place. I also like the fact it is a shared spotlight. Yes I have my fair share of jazz/rock guitar hero albums (and blues/rock too...but 'whispers' we don't mention that here if we can help it). Neither dominates, both compliment the other. If you want a guitar name to give you a handle then Philip Catherine would be it/him. As both players mix their jazz scales and chordings with Spanish/classical themes it does get a bit Julian Bream now and then...but albums should have contrasts and different influences. The melodies lead you down a labyrinth of unexpected twists and turns...and I now and then can spot a Brel type passage a la Jake Thackray (look him up). Staircase is the most deliberately disc(h)ordant piece and I almost expected it to cloud over and the wind get up outside...I would be pushing my luck to say it actually did...but the mood change doesn't jar, it feels appropriate. Elbow Room has some ebow electric guitar from Abercrombie with Coryell/Ray Russell similarities and I actually would stand with the guys who say 'this is better without a bass/drum rhythm section'. Fable is just beautiful...in the ears of this beholder anyways.

You can come here if you want a bit of 'wow me with your dexterity' but that would be the wrong reason. If you want something creative, well constructed and atmospheric I shall add you to the guest list.