Matrix - "Harvest" 1981

This is my second post of a Matrix LP.  The group has their own website (www.matrixjazz.com) where LP's and CD's can be purchased, however "Harvest" and "IX" are totally out-of-print in any medium.  This LP still maintains the tight and dynamic brass arrangements that Matrix is known for.  It is amazing that the LP can still deliver the "punch" that CD's are well known for.  I am also displaying the back cover artwork just to give an idea of the group's makeup (photo of recording session). Click on the image below to get a full size view:

  Pony by littlejazzarium

I actually like this LP more than "IX", because I believe it is more melodic and structured, and therefore in my opinion, more to my liking.  My favorite cut is "El Tigre" and "Harvest", but all tracks are very good.  If you like this, go the group's website and purchase the CD's that are available.  Each track unfolds a story that is worthy of telling....I hope you enjoy!!

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Track 1: "El Tigre"

Soloists - John Harmon on Piano; Jeff Pietrangelo on Flugelhorn; RandyTico on Bass

Track 2: "Pony"

Soloists - John Harmon on Piano; Larry Darling on Flugelhorn

Track 3: "Harvest" (In Honor of the American Indian)

I. Prayer of Thanksgiving

II. Feast

III. Celebration Dance

Soloists - John Kirchberger on Alto Flute; Jeff Pietrangelo on Flugelhorn

Track 4: "Blue Black"

Track 5: "Maestro" (for Aaron Copland)

Soloists - Kurt Dietrich on Trombone; John Kirchberger on Saxophone

Track 6: "Balthazar"

Soloists - John Kirchberger on Soprano Saxophone; Mike Hale on Trumpet; Randy Tico on Bass

David Spinozza - "Spinozza*" 1978

When this LP was introduced, I really digged the cut "Airborne", but never purchased the LP. Then I recently came across this LP on another blog, and listened to it again, and thought it was fantastic, however, I was not satisfied with the sound quality of the LP Rip that was posted.  So I found a "Sealed LP" on eBay, and even had the original promotional stickers on the shrink wrap. I hope you enjoy this wonderful work from David Spinozza and Mike Manieri....and the sonic fidelity came out quite well too...Enjoy a time warp back to the jazz of 1978...

   David Spinozza - "On My Way To The Liquor Store" by littlejazzarium

Producer - David Spinozza , Mike Mainieri

Milt Jackson - "Olinga" 1974

Bass - Ron Carter

Drums - Mickey Roker

Piano - Cedar Walton

Saxophone [Soprano, Tenor] - Jimmy Heath

Vibraphone - Milt Jackson

Matrix - "Matrix IX" 1976

Matrix is a jazz fusion group that started in 1974. Their sound is noted for it's tight brass arrangements and very complex musical themes.  The closest mainstream group I would compare them to would be the early "Weather Report" recordings.  This album was a bit obscure even in it's day, and I dusted this original copy that I have had and gave it a listen. I was surprised by the dynamics and punch that these recordings could still deliver.  The titles and music on this LP are innovative and very engaging and have listed the full titles below.  My favorite is Track 1: "Earth And The Overlords"

BTW, they have a website where other works are available directly from Matrix this LP though is not available.
 Hope you enjoy this rare gem!

Track Listing

1.  Earth And The Overlords - Inspired by Arthur C. Clarke's science fiction novel Childhoods End

2.  Catalpa Complex

3.  Blue Snow

4.  Dark Riders - Inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien's trilogy Lord Of The Rings

5.  Clea - Inspired by Lawrence Durrell's literary creation Clea

6.  Geese

7.  The Last Generation -Also inspired by Arthur C. Clarke's Childhood's End

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