SECOND WIND (AS OBLIVION EXPRESS)

With this album Auger introduced new vocalist Alex Ligertwood ( ex-Jeff Beck Band) and new musical direction. If earlier Oblivion Express works were made under heavy jazz -fusion sign, "New Wind" is based on keyboard-lead r'n'b. Alex has strong voice, but his vocal style is different from old Oblivion Express works as well.

So we have here vocal and keys based groove ( and keys mean not only Hammond organ, but plenty of piano as well). Arrangements are mostly jazzy, with some Latin nuances. In fact, this album's music sounds very similar to Santana's works of their r'n'b/ Latin soul period ( without Carlos guitar, for sure ).

I believe, that such change of direction isn't everyone's cup of tea, but generally I like this music. Happily, this album isn't so pop-oriented, as Santana's "Festival" for example. And it isn't strange, that after some years Alex found his place as Santana's vocalist for years.

So, if not on the same level as previous Auger best albums, still really good work. 3,5 .