Thrust Review

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Thrust ReviewAlthough I enjoyed the Headhunters album (1973), this 1974 release is a bit more appealing - and it has nothing to do with the sci-fi cover art. In general, the playing on this album seems further out there and a bit more sophisticated, even though the only thing that changed was the addition of jaw-dropping virtuoso drummer Mike Clark (shows you just how important the drummer is I guess).
The musicians on this album include the keyboard wizard himself Herbie Hancock playing "traditional" jazz-rock instruments (Fender Rhodes electric piano and Hohner D-6 clavinet) along with just about every synthesizer ARP manufactured in 1974 (ARP Odyssey, ARP Pro Soloist, ARP 2600, and ARP String Ensemble); Bernie Maupin (soprano and tenor saxophone, saxello, bass clarinet, and flute); Paul Jackson (electric bass guitar); Paul Summers (percussion); and drummer extraordinaire Mike Clark (who went on to jam with English jazz rock group Brand X).
Stylistically, this album fuses elements of traditional (straight) jazz with both jazz-rock and funk. With respect to the funk styles, the funk is not the more pop-oriented style of Sly and the Family Stone. This funk is deeply sophisticated and utilizes just about every odd time signature under the sun, which is largely an artifact of Mike Clarks' nimble and intricate technique (Actual Proof is a great example). Furthermore, his emphasis on subtle hesitations within a given bar lends the music an almost "choppy" and "off-kilter" feel. In fact, based upon Mike's comments in the liner notes (that he wrote), he seemed unwilling to play anything straight - I for one am glad, because I do not care for straight funk that much. Come to think of it, I am a progressive rock fan for crying out loud. I should note that bassist Paul is also excellent and does not "swing" either - then again, he has to follow Mike and they are both locked in tight on this album.
With respect to the heavy use of synthesizers on this album, I personally like the sounds that Herbie gets. Although synthesizers may turn some jazz fans off, I am a bit more accepting because my musical tastes include both 1970's electronica and European progressive rock.
All in all, this is a superb album of jazz-rock/funk from one of the genre's greatest musicians. Recommended along with Headhunters (1973) and albums by other influential Miles Davis alumni including John McLaughlin/Billy Cobham (Mahavishnu Orchestra - Birds of Fire, 1973); Joe Zawinul/Wayne Shorter (Weather Report - Black Market, 1976); and Chick Corea (Return to Forever - Romantic Warrior, 1976).Thrust OverviewThis 1974 follow-up to Head Hunters is a treasure trove of early grooves and super-funky rhythms. Includes Palm Grease; Actual Proof; Butterfly , and Spank-a-Lee , with new liner notes by drummer Mike Clarke. First time on CD in the U.S.!

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