WHEN THE EAGLE FLIES

This album is usually under-rated even by the fans of the band. It is no wonder, because TRAFFIC split after its release and the fact that it came out after the series of excellent albums (John Barleycorn, Low Sparks and Shoot Out). But, repeated listening unveils some wonderful moments, particularly the trio of "Dream Gerrard", "Graveyard people" and "Walking in the Wind", which could have fit on any of above mentioned highlights. The sound is even more close to jazz rock than on previous efforts, with considerable soul and blues moments. Winwood adds several nice synthesizer solos (Moog?) and Mellotron sounds, while the newcomer Gee plays a funky/reggae style of bass, very rhythmic and melodic. Capaldi is in full form as drummer and lyricist, while Wood again shows that he was one of shamelessly the most neglected sax players in rock world, playing with a confident jazz-attitude and using electronic effects. True, the songwriting and arrangements are not on par with what you might expect, and "Memories of Rock'n'Rolla" and "Love" are so lame and too easy-listening soul ballads. But, overall the album "When the Eagle Flies" definitely deserves your attention. ***1/2