Comments for Mclaughlin, John, Extrapolation

This is the first solo album by the soon-to-become-famousBritish guitarist. It is agreed by many to be the work of pureinspiration, something that can parallel the Miles` work aspreserved for the posterity on the `Kind of Blue` (1959).Twenty seven years later, John`s guitar mastery, as exhibitedon this album, hasn`t been equaled yet. Even John himself rarelyventured to recreate this type of virtuosic playing (but,he is perfectly at peace with this issue, because he sees it ashis `blue phase` - John is quick to point out that evenPicasso never returned to his blue phase).Another breakthru documented on this album is the amazingartistry of John Surman, who has since then been on the forefront of European progressive jazz. Surman`s playingis devastating, especially on the baritone sax. Listen tothe third track (Argen`s Bag`) for the blowing that willleave you completely shuttered.John`s finest moments are on track where he is treading thefine line between soloing and comping, like on `Pete thePoet`. His unbelievable right hand technique enables himto execute completely fresh lines, which are even todayan absolute challenge to master for all but the most advancedplayers.This recording is highly recommended not only for jazz listeners, but for anyone interested in hearing artisticallyadvanced group playing. Its lyrical atmosphere is simplyirresistible.