BIRDS OF FIRE

The second album "Birds of Fire" by Mahavishnu Orchestra, led by the incomparable guitar of John McLaughlin, is still at par excellent with the debut album. The Orchestra (the band) still consistent with its musical concept of combining jazz, rock, and eastern influences into a fiery, dynamic tour de force. "Birds of Fire" was the culmination of a solid year for the band as opening gigs for the likes of ELP and YES.

You can find this album is truly a masterpiece one even from the dazzling album opener "Birds of Fire" where violin and guitar played intertwined mode in a composition that rather can be classified under avant-garde. "Miles Beyond" brings the music in the same style but it has many breaks (without drumming) which demonstrate how guitar solo and bass play the part incredibly. The eastern nuance also appears right here. Billy Cobham plays his drum masterfully. "Celestial Terrestrial Commuters" brings the music into a faster tempo and this time Jan Hammer is given a chance to demonstrate his keyboard skills in between guitar solo and violin solo. Interesting track! After a bridge "Saphire .." the band moves into "Thousand Island Park" - a kind like string music featuring electric piano which sounds like Chick Corea, acoustic guitar and acoustic bass. It's a kind of musical break with great performance especially with John with his speed guitar playing.

"One Word" is the longest track in this album and it kicks off beautifully with Billy Cobham's speed snare drum work. The music that follows bring the nuance of intricate and balanced combination of band members virtuosities. This might be the most powerful song compared to other tracks. Rick Laird is given a chance to perform his bass guitar dynamically augmented with guitar rhythm section and keyboard. "Sanctuary" is a mellow track with soft touch guitar and keyboard playing. "Open Country Joy" brings the music into jazzier style with Jan Hammer work together with Jerry Goodman (violin). The music then moves into a very intricate style with violin, guitar and keyboard play intertwiningly. "Resolution" concludes the album with an accessible style and medium tempo. Guitar plays the melody.

It's definitely a masterpiece of prog music. Highly recommended. Keep on proggin' ..!

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW