JOURNEY TO LOVE

Despite the title and subdued album cover photo, this is not a light collection of adult contemporary radio fluff, like too many seventies fusion albums. This is a powerhouse of a collection of mostly standout progressive fusion, some of it as good as any fusion of the time.

"Silly Putty" is a funky bass driven song. A good song, but a bit too reminiscent of "Lopsy Lu", from Stanley Clarke's previous album. Both "Silly Putty" and "Lopsy Lu" became regular features of Clarke's live perfomances.

The title track, "Journey To Love", is the radio friendly fluff mentioned above. But at least the song is not badly written. But Stanley's Earth Wind & Fire style falsetto is amusing.

"Hello Jeff" is a rocking piece, featuring some obscure guitarist named Jeff Beck.

"Song To John" is a more traditional jazz piece. The first part features Clarke on bowed acoustic bass, the second is an acoustic trio with Chick Corea and John McLaughlin. This is a fantastic jazz piece.

"Concerto for Jazz/Rock Orchestra, Parts 1-4" is the standout piece here. It's an amazing Return To Forever styled opus. Stanley's playing on this is incredible. And there are horn sections that rival some of Zappa's best arrangements.

4.5 stars.