Universal Syncopations

An album with this sort of starry virtuoso line-up cannot hope but excite expectations in those who enjoy the dark –arts of fusion or what –ever this form is now described as being. So, it’s great to report that Messer’s Vitous, McLaughlin et- al do not disappoint. In fact, this might be one of the best ECM outings in this area. ‘Universal Syncopations’ is a highly enjoyable recording and deserves a listen from every kind of music lover.Perhaps the secret in the success of this album lies in the way that structure, melody and improvisation are so neatly balanced. The defining feature of this recording is the use of space by the band, allowing the tone of each instrument to sound out and the contribution of each player to be readily identified and enjoyed. The pace through-out is relaxed to medium tempo and the music veering from the melodic and broodingly atmospheric to the slightly more ‘out there’, avoiding the wilfully difficult or down-right cacophonous. If you are looking for rock like levels of intensity, look elsewhere- expertise, invention and discipline are the key features here.Garbarek plays with beautiful tone through- out whist Vitous glues everything together with bass lines that shimmer with warmth and creativity. Each player brings something to enjoy and treasure. For instance, Chic Corea on 'Sunflower' plays a beautiful introduction to set up the tune. John McLaughlin contributions a couple of fleeting solos and in my humble opinion is perhaps a little under-utilized.Superb recorded sound. A top recommendation!

I bought this album when it first came out, listened to it a couple of times then forgot about it. I listened to it again recently and was so taken with it that it's been on the CD player every day for about 10 days.The band is first class. I agree with the reviewer who was apprehensive about Garbarek, but disagree about his playing on this album - I think Vitous has got him well under control, making him play straight ahead improvisational sax. The addition of McLaughlin adds wonderful colour and tone, and Corea is in great form: he really gets better with age.But its Vitous himself (bass) and deJohnette (drums) who steal the show on this CD, with a shimmering array of driving beats, textures and rhythms - all with a delicacy and detail which is never oppressive but uplifting and very satisfying.As is to be expected from ECM the production values and sound engineering are first class. However, this - for me - is one of the best produced albums I've heard in a long time: the sensitivity to Vitous' light touch, deJohnette's cymbal playing particularly and McLaughlin's guitar make this a recording of crystal clarity.I've just ordered US II which apparently is another cracker