Search - John McLaughlin :: Heart of Things

Deeper than anything else he's done...more like 4.5 stars

liss-nirr | 05/01/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"While this album includes all of the technical proficiency that John is famous for, (and that of the groups he puts together), the real value of these songs is in their musical depth, range, and meaning. Some tracks are stronger than others in this respect, but overall, the music "has something to say," in other words, it goes somewhere far beyond the mere mechanics of individual performances of skill, and even far beyond the basic collective effect of the rhythms, harmony, melody, and other elements. In order to actually hear this, you have to listen to the individual parts all at once, while simultaneously and most importantly, hearing the whole song as an additional part, as if the composition were an instrument itself. When you get tired of mere virtuosity, or just want to discover something new, try to hear this music as a single, living, conscious "thing" (creature, being, idea...whatever) and you will be blown away. Well worth getting whether you're into blazing chops or the broader context and life of music."

Burning again.

gdozzzz | Avon, CT United States | 04/27/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Reminiscent of his Mahavishnu days, this CD burns. Chambers is outstanding and critical to the success. Overall, nothing stands out as particularly memorable, but it is still very enjoyable."

Pretty good

milkman john | Oxford, England | 11/22/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"John steps aside too much in this CD. There's not enough of "THAT" stuff that your looking for when you buy a Mclaughlin CD. Even though, the band is unbelievable, and this record is definately worth buying. (if you have your doubts about what CD to buy next, skip this one and get "Live at the Royal Festival Hall" with Kai Eckhard, increadible on bass and Trilok Gurtu on percussion. That disc will blow your mind!!)"