PROTOCOL 4

SIMON PHILLIPS surely is one of the most demanded and respected jazz drummers ever. And even as a composer he's very successful. 'Protocol 4' stands for a series of albums which he initiated in 1988, where the last three exemplars came out fulfilling a two years interval exactly. Regarding the current one, released in 2017, he has gathered steady compagnion Ernest Tibbs again, also Greg Howe on guitar and keyboarder Dennis Hamm. This prolific crew offers prog fusion in best form, partially close to music provided by Billy Cobham, Tony Williams Lifetime, Brand X, Alan Holdsworth aso. Examplarily just take the energetic Azorez which is concluding the album.

What differs to the aforementioned acts is the somewhat nonchalant atmosphere they are creating more often, I'd say. What I mean, it seems to me a tad more controlled, not that wild and unrestrained as particularly known from the 1970's. Though virtuoso and entertaining all the way through without a doubt. Obviously born out of Simon's uncounted experiences Passage To Agra is carried by a fantastic rhythm featuring some exotic flair. Greg Howe's guitar playing frequently reminds me of Alan Holdsworth. The following Solitaire shines with a funky groove and stunning keyboard attendance. Superb album. At least jazz fusion aficionados shouldn't miss that.