HYMN OF THE SEVENTH GALAXY

Chick Corea decided to change the bands sound in a major way. He wanted to be part of that fiery fusion sound like MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA, and he succeeded big time. Lenny White on drums, and Bill Connors on guitar are the two new members, who join Stanley Clarke on bass, and Chick on keys.

"Hymn Of The seventh Galaxy" opens with a brief spacey soundscape before White comes in with some pretty amazing drumming. Ok, they're all actually playing at this point, it's just I can't help focus on White. Connors comes in before 2 minutes ripping it up. "After The Cosmic Rain" is the only song that wasn't composed by Corea, it's a Stanley Clarke tune and a good one. Clarke and Corea trade blows early as guitar and drums come in. The guitar soars above them all. Liquid keys follow, but then check out Clarke's fuzz bass solo that goes on and on. Back to the Clarke and Corea show before 6 minutes. "Captain Senor Mouse" has a driving rhythm to it. Connors lights it up a minute in. Liquid keys with relentless drums and bass 4 minutes in. Some nice guitar after 6 minutes but then he just starts to shred. So impressive.

"Theme To The Mothership" features keys and drums that standout early. The guitar comes in with a blistering attack. It settles somewhat with keys and bass 4 minutes in but it's building. Another calm 8 minutes in to the end. "Space Circus" is divided into two parts. The first section is laid back with keys leading the way. The second is more uptempo with some excellent guitar, killer bass lines and fantastic drumming before 4 minutes. Connors then lets loose. Oh My ! "The Game Maker" is laid back with keys before it starts to pick up 2 minutes in. Connors is at it again. Man he can play ! White is all over this one.

A must have for Fusion fans out there.