COMPASS POINT

Compass point is one of the better live fusion records by Cobham from the post 2000 part of his career. He's accompanied by younger jazzmen who bring fresh attitude and less conventional soloing. Proficient keyboard and guitar playing help get the fusion feeling but it's Cobham who precisely lives and feels the rhythm that is often changing. Bass playing is adequate and intensive. From time to time, we have more subdued post bop jazz moments like on "Egg shells still on my head" or "Les cocos". There is good playing with tension and graduation. My two highlights are the referential first track "The snaffler" due to powerful solos but also "Obliquely speaking" thanks to killer bass lines and high intensity. The "Crosswinds-Stratus" version is OK but not above average (not great not terrible!).