CLEAR AIR TURBULENCE

Well this was interesting. Ian Gillan the voice that roared for DEEP PURPLE decided to record some music that was quite different from what we were used to hearing from him. As Tom Ozric states, this is a hybrid of Rock and Progressive Jazz. It took quite a few listenes for me to even like it because it reminded me of the late seventies so much. I've grown to appreciate it though for what it is and feel it's a low 4 star offering.

"Clean Air Turbulence" opens with the synths creating some atmosphere then it kicks in before a minute with vocals. The bass and drums are very active. It settles after 2 1/2 minutes and we get some guitar 3 1/2 minutes in. This reminds me of STEELY DAN. It kicks back in at 6 minutes with horns helping out. "Five Moons" opens with flute and atmosphere as the wind blows. Mellow keys take over as reserved vocals join in. It kicks in at 2 minutes but it's brief although the contrasts will continue. A relaxed sax solo after 5 minutes. Excellent tune. "Money Lender" sounds like LYNYRD SKYNYRD until the horns blast away but then it's back to that Southern Rock flavour. The vocals get theatrical at times. A Jazzy vibe follows then it kicks back in before 4 minutes.

"Over The Hill" has prominant drums to start as vocals and more join in. Some screams before 2 1/2 minutes. A nice instrumental section a minute later. Some vocal expressions after 5 minutes too. "Goodhand Liza" opens with percussion and it never stops. Vocals before a minute. Cool song. "Angel Manchenio" opens with atmosphere and intricate sounds. A change before 2 1/2 minutes with vocals. This reminds me of STEELY DAN again. Another change after 4 minutes with floating organ and intricate sounds. It then picks up.

This has really grown on me after the original shock of my first listen. For Jazz / Rock fans.