Search - Isotope :: Illusion

Great Brit Fusion w/ Fangs (courtesy of Hugh Hopper)

P. McKenna | Atlanta GA | 11/23/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This second effort by Isotope is clearly the best one in this Owl's opinion. While the recorded sound is a bit on the murky side, the performances more than compensate for it.



Guitarist Gary Boyle really shines here, bringing together elements of Indian music (he was born in India originally), Jazz, Hendrix and John McLaughlin with a tart, biting tone yet still having a unique warmth. Former Soft Machine bassist Hugh Hopper lends his distinct fuzz-bass sound to the proceedings and gives the songs a lot of extra bite and grit as well as being quite melodic in his own unique way. Drummer Nigel Morris seems to have found a precarious balance of technique and soul as he propels the tunes at a brisk pace, really LISTENING to the other musicians as opposed to just showing how fast he could play. Lawrence Scott provides understated keyboard support (mainly on Fender Rhodes) but doesn't seem to feel comfortable going out on the edge as much as the other musicians do.



Highly recommended if you enjoy good, intense instrumental music."

A fuzz bass lovers dream!!! Hugh Hopper rules!!!

Jason Pumphrey | Falls Church, Virginia United States | 12/28/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you like that cool fuzz bass sound, then this the album for you!!! A very underrated gem from the seventies,While there is not fuzz on all the tracks, the ones that do are awesome!!! Ex soft machine bassist Hugh Hopper is one of the greatest bassists in rock/jazz/progressive music!!! This album is truly one of a kind!!! The drumming from Nigel Morris is incredible too!!! As is the guitar playing from Gary Boyle!!! This classic needs to find a larger audience!!! This album rocks!!! Five Stars!!! A+"