Elvin Jones - 1975 - On The Mountain

Elvin Jones

1975

On The Mountain

01. Thorn Of A White Rose 5:07

02. Namuh 7:47

03. On The Mountain 4:37

04. Smoke In The Sun 4:00

05. London Air 5:29

06. Destiny 7:28

Bass: Gene Perla

Drums: Elvin Jones

Keyboards: Jan Hammer

This 1975 date for the brilliant drummer, with Jan Hammer on keyboards and bassist Gene Perla, is a minor, if somewhat overlooked, classic from the tail-end of the early '70s to the mid-70s' run of great jazz fusion releases. Both Perla and Hammer worked with Elvin Jones between 1971 and 1973, in bands featuring saxophonists Frank Foster, Joe Farrell, Steve Grossman and Dave Liebman. Here, the smaller format allows for a tight group sound with openings for strong solos and fluid interplay throughout. Jones is well up in the mix, giving fans a front-row opportunity to enjoy the drummer, both in all-over-the-kit, rolling-thunder mode and in the subtler moments of his peerless brushwork. The trio perform a half-dozen originals by Perla and Hammer. The impressive writing has a definite jazz sensibility, but Hammer's Moog and electric piano work, Perla's alternating between electric and acoustic basses, and Jones' own fierce eruptions provide a satisfying, rock wallop in several spots.

Elvin Jones makes an effortless transition into Jazz fusion with this gutsy effort eloquently ornamented with signature chops and precision drumming technique. Featuring fusion Icon Jan Hammer (writer of the very popular Miami Vice theme from the 1980's) Hammer, was also the keyboard player for John McLaughlin's Mahavishnu orchestra and did collaborations with Jazz guitarist John Abercrombie and a slew of others. Released in 1975 this is a must for 70's Fusion fans. Jones was already a veteran Jazz drummer from the 50's who made a major contribution to Jazz while performing and recording with all the great top Jazz masters. "On the Mountain" contains some great virtuosic riffing. The interplay between Jones and Hammer is compelling and a worthwhile listening adventure. Also featuring, Gene Perla who supplies the rich acoustic and electric bass registers to reinforce and enhance the chordal keyboard inversions and provides the groove and movement necessary to execute the completed musical canvas. A highly recommended collector's item.

An incredible, unique, and sadly underrated album here. These musicians are playing some grade A+ post-bop with heavy fusion stylings- mostly because of Mr. Hammer’s synth choices.

Mr. Jones plays as lovely and inspired as ever, and it is a pure joy to hear him in a trio context , with not a horn to be heard anywhere for the 35 minute running time.

Really cool music - would love to hear more jazz from this era that stays true to bop forms while keeping it fresh, progressive , and with a tasteful use of the technology of the time.