SPECTRUM

What a launch pad for Billy Cobham's solo career. This energetic and hugely enjoyable fusion cornerstone opens with the tearing guitar of a young Tommy Bolin and the propulsive thrust of Billy's kit. When 'Quadrant 4' finishes with a cymbal crash the natural response is 'Whew!'. There are some drum solos sprinkled throughout the album but as these show much light and shade and are mercifully short, even those who shy away from drummer indulgences will find these interludes diverting. Jan Hammer's keyboard work is varied and supports the jazz-funk-rock grooves most effectively. Joe Farrell and Jimmy Owens provide horn breaks and the bass playing by Lee Sklar (or Ron Carter on two tracks) locks in behind the leader's percussion. There is a timeless positive energy to this album which makes it as enjoyable and relevant now as when it was released in 1973. Rating - Vision and Innovation: 26/30; Playing and Composition: 28/30; Listener Enjoyment: 28/30; X-Factor [eg: Cover, bonuses, packaging, reviewer bias] 8/10; Total: 90/100 -> 5 Stars.