TALE SPINNIN'

This is a disappointment for me after the amazing (and my favourite from them) "Mysterious Traveller". It still astounds me how different this band can sound from album to album. For me the first two tracks sound light and commercial, and I really can't stand poppy Jazz. So they get off on the wrong foot in a big way for me but make up for it with the remaining 4 tracks. Interseting that Zawinul is using a "Tonto synthesizer system" on this record (first three tracks).Tom Ozric told me it's "a custom built synth from Malcolm Cecil / Robert Margouleff of TONTO'S EXPANDING HEAD BAND". TONTO stands for "The Original New Timbral Orchestra".

"Man In The Green Shirt" is light, soft Jazz with the Tontos sounds coming and going. Sax takes the lead before 2 minutes. It settles a minute later with sax still out in front. "Lustitanos" is another mellow and jazzy tune with prominant sax.The sound does get fuller but then it settles again with piano after 3 minute. "Between The Thighs" is for me the best song by far. It quickly builds to a good soundscape. Lots going on after 2 minutes. Nice. Steady drum work here with sax playing over top. I like when it settles after 4 1/2 minutes. Great bass from Johnson 6 minutes in as intricate sounds continue.

"Badia" opens with some atmosphere.The tempo picks up before 3 minutes but it's brief. "Freezing Fire" features some outstanding drum and bass work throughout. "Five Short Stories" is very laid back with acoustic piano, some organ and sax leading the way. I like this one.

Well, of their first 6 studio albums i'd rate this as the fifth best.The "RYM" site rates it sixth. Still this is WEATHER REPORT and they only know how to make good music. 3.5 stars.