THE JEAN-LUC PONTY EXPERIENCE WITH THE GEORGE DUKE TRIO [AKA: LIVE IN LOS ANGELES]

Another unique item in the Ponty's and Duke's discography, not only because of the names that meet in the Frank Zappa's group again. Both lead players would soon abandon the rich improvisational music that was at its height in 1969-1970 inspired by Miles. Then, we have the first electric album by Duke and he performs some very capable solos or jazz background support for Ponty. I think the strongest cuts are those with more coherent structure such as "Cantaloupe island", "Foosh". Comparing to Miles, we can also hear slight soul-jazz instrumental influences which give it a lighter touch in contrast to intensive numbers like "Starlight, starbright". The rhythm section is purely supportive but competently laying down the pattern.