AIR CUT

Exit Francis Monkman and Darryl Way, enter Eddie Jobson. This is Curved Air's 4th album, and one I consider a true masterpiece. 'Air Cut' sports a crisp and lively production, the compositions are tighter, and the addition of the talented Jobson (on Electric Violin and Keyboards) adds multi-coloured textures and vibrance to the music. Jobson's selection of Keyboards is that of Monkman's - Hammond, Mellotron, VCS 3 Synth, Harpsichord, Piano, Electric-Piano and he utilises them thoughtfully to breathe ever more life into the songs on this album, not to mention that his violin playing is extraordinary - whilst Way played with strong classical leanings, EJ was more 'rock', which is one possible reason why this album is so appealing and entertaining. Sonja Kristina's vocals are superb (almost a cross between the beautifully trained voice of Annie Haslam with the hard-rockin' spirit of Suzi Quatro) and future CARAVAN bassist Mike Wedgewood sounding more confident with his instrument. Two unknowns ; Kirby on Guitars and Jim Russell on Drums complete this version of the band. Of the 8 tracks, what I think are 'lesser' ones - an acoustic, folky little ditty by the name of 'World', and a stripped-down hard-rock tune 'Two-Three-Two', whilst not as engaging as the remaining 6 pieces, they serve as a light refreshment after (or before, depending on how you look at it) the elaborate and dynamic Prog arrangements around them. Fellow reviewer 'Salmacis' has previously submitted a masterful track-by-track analysis of this album, and nailed it, spot on. I still insist on this being a 5 star record.