Katamaran - 1977 - Katamaran

Katamaran

1977

Katamaran

01. Poseidon 3:34
02. Gehe Zurück Nach Der Badstraße 6:58
03. Fender Spiel 8:41
04. 16.9.76 5:44
05. Gerd Und Die Welt 15:59

Bass – Dagobert Dombrowski
Synthesizer, Flute – Wolf Burbat
Drums, Percussion – Heinz-Günter Hemkendreis
Guitar – Franz Holtmann
Percussion – Hermann Mensing
Piano, Electric Piano – Heiner Kleinjohann
Tenor Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone – Calle Bisping

By the late 70s, fusionitis had spread rapidly to just about any group of musicians with a few chops. German jazz-rock outfit Katamaran were one group from the era, influenced strongly by Return to Forever, Weather Report and the like. Based on a typical riffing drum and bass rhythm section, the group lays down grooves for a number of winds, guitars and keys, including flutes, soprano sax, electric piano and more. With so many European fusion albums, it's difficult to give Katamaran the kudos it might deserve, but what could be said for it is that it's not a shred fest, with plenty of room for ensemble work to break up the monotony of solo after solo. The band Perigeo is a decent comparison as far as this goes, one that should hint to the tastefulness going on here. However, as well played and classy as Katamaran are, I can't help but think that there are at least a dozen albums in the style I'd rather be listening to. A solid album, while not necessarily being a standout.

The endless German jazz fusion era of the late 70s and early 80s strikes once again with Katamaran. The debut is more in line with the then current scene (Moira, Kraan, etc..) with hot playing, memorable melodies and tight unison runs.