Search - Shakti, John McLaughlin :: Shakti / John Mclaughlin

Masterful album by one of the greatest, most eclectic jazz m

Grigory's Girl | NYC | 02/12/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"John McLaughlin is one of my favorite jazz artists, a real master at fusion of not just rock with jazz, but fusing western and eastern elements so seamlessly and making brilliant work as a result. This album is one of his most intense, playful, and brilliant works of his entire career.



The opener, Joy, is aptly, where John and crew burn through a 18 1/2 minute track with hardly a breath. The next track, Lotus Feet, provides us with a nice breather, and the final track, What Need Have I for This? What Need Have I for That? I Am Dancing at the Feet of My Lord, All is Bliss, All is Bliss is a masterful track, done in a very similar way to an Indian raga. It's moving, deeply spiritual, and masterful, like this entire album. The album is recorded live, and the crowd is magnificent and deeply appreciative. McLaughlin's music was quite popular during the 1970's, when audiences were more receptive to experimentation and diversity than they seem today. Shakti is just one of many amazing steps by McLaughlin, and it remains one of most memorable albums."