ALBUM: Passion, Grace and Fire
MVC Rating: 4.0/$
Although this is totally different music then the Chet Atkins instrumental buddy guitar group I reviewed earlier in the countdown (See No. 666) there are similarities: Guitar, instrumental tracks all.
The difference is that Atkins put on a jazzy folksy feel feel with a little twang left in. Some of the guitarists on that venture were Larry Carton, Mark Knopfler and George Benson.
McLaughlin, leader of the super prog group, Mahavishnu Orchestra, snagged two of the best guitarists and guitar technicians and put on a concert that needs a quiet room.
Paco de Lucia making Spanish guitar fireworks with finger-picked explosions of sound (fury included).
Not necessarily easy music to listen to. It requires direct attention. But to be honest, I did listen and I still get the feel of ‘look what I can do now show me what you can do’ vibe. It might be me projecting.
The guitar playing is fantastic, that’s for sure. The blending of three highly skilled players coming at the guitar was an idea that, once again, I think looks better on paper.
But they sure can pick. Sitting here listening, it goes across my mind. What would it have been like if they put Glen Campbell into the mix? Just a thought.