Gazeuse! was the first in a successful line of strictly jazz-rock sessions for percussionist Pierre Moerlen and company — compositions that stressed jazz more than rock and which generally strayed away from lyrical content. This 1976 recording, also released under the title Expresso, was the band’s first completely instrumental album, a companion piece to the later, somewhat warmer Expresso II, which is quite similar in sound and structure. To say Gazeuse! is percussive is an understatement. Drummer Moerlen is accompanied by brother Benoit and Mirielle Bauer on vibraphones with Mino Cinelu playing other assorted percussion. “Percolations” is a showcase for this foursome: Part one, a display of beautiful vibes and xylophones; part two, a technically superb drum solo. Pierre’s playing is fierce in this second part, exhibited by some truly volatile drumming near the close. Allan Holdsworth is the sole guitarist on the album and contributes two of his own compositions. His “Night Illusion” is a standout and reminiscent of Bill Bruford’s Feels Good to Me on which Holdsworth collaborated around the same time. Longtime Gong member Didier Malherbe adds spice to the proceedings with jazzy flute on “Shadows Of” and prominent sax on the slightly funky “Esnuria.” ~ David Ross Smith, All Music Guide
Featured Video
Cozy Powell feat. Jack Bruce – Killer (Old Grey Whistle Test, 8th Jan 1980)
Jack Bruce performing “Killer” as part of Cozy Powell’s band on the British TV show Old Grey Whistle Test on 8th January 1980.
Band:
Cozy Powell (drums)
Jack Bruce (bass)
Max Middleton (keys)
Clem Clempson (guitar)
Don Airey (keys)
Footage licensed from BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. All rights reserved.
Featured Album
Das Waldemar Wunderbar Syndikat – I Make You Feel Good – 1976
German all star band with Funk Rock / Jazz Rock
Telefunken 6.22656/GER 1976