I think the type of fusion band typified by Mahavishnu Orchestra, Weather Report, Return to Forever, Passport, Caldera, Isotope, Al DiMeola, Billy Cobham, and other 70s fusion band is that this type of jazz was supplanted by more accessible (read: melodic) smooth jazz by the likes of The Yellowjackets, Andy Narell, Bob James, Michael Franks, George Benson, Bela Fleck, and Spyrogyra. I like both genres but they are definitely different. Some great 70s jazz is also found on the CTI labels but tends to be more pop-oriented.
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riawry, I agree totally with your summation. I don't know how you compare "Mahavishnu" to any band, but here is something in a similar vain. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfjxtcNYKz4 "Shakti" is the concept or personification of divine feminine creative power, sometimes referred to as 'The Great Divine Mother' in Hinduism. As the mother she is known as Adi Parashakti or Adishakti. On the earthly plane; so says "Wikipedia". Enjoy the music. |
I like some of the 'Shakti', both original and 'Remember Shakti', but this is something quite different. Of the original 'Shakti' I'd say that the composition entitled 'India' is the most profound, and of the 'Remember Shakti' John's old composition 'Lotus Feet' is as great as ever. When thinking of modern jazz or jazz fusion, it is difficult for me to listen to any other guitarist. John's mastering of the instrument is off the scale. By the way, some of his performances, most in fact, in 80s with Paco de Lucia, Paco de Lucia and Al di Meola, and with Jonas Hellborg are quite incredible. His trio in 90s with Trilok Gurtu and bass player was often excellent too. But, none of this is Mahavishnu Orchestra. I think, he could've taken the concept farther than he did, I don't know why he didn't, maybe got exhausted and had to go meet "The Great Divine Mother'. |
Inna, if you can't dig this, you got a hole in your soul. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IVfNuQ14lBU |
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