Enigmatic Ocean by Jean-Luc Ponty, 1977
An essential album for Progressive Rock, with its exceptional Jazz Rock Fusion, a true masterpiece.
It would be reductive to describe him simply as a virtuoso violinist, which he is, with his fantastic classical and electric violins, a pioneer in which he is a pioneer. He is also a masterful composer who has fused various genres into his signature sound.
The many collaborators on this album are incredibly talented, including Daryl Stuermer and Allan Holdsworth on exceptional guitars, Ralphe Armstrong on extraordinary bassist, keyboardist Allan Zavod, and drummer Steve Smith.
The title track, Enigmatic Ocean, is a masterpiece, but Mirage and Nostalgic Lady are equally as impressive, in my opinion, with their use of effects and sounds that would later define the Ponty sound.
An exceptional album, though its production isn't excellent, but that doesn't diminish it, and I still say it's a true masterpiece, and as such, I recommend it to anyone who isn't familiar with it.
Tracklist
1. Overture (0:47)
2. The Trans-Love Express (3:56)
3. Mirage (4:54)
4. Enigmatic Ocean
Part I (2:20)
Part II (3:35)
Part III (3:43)
Part IV (2:24)
5. Nostalgic Lady (5:20)
6. Struggle of the Sea Turtle
Part I (3:32)
Part II (3:33)
Part III (6:05)
Running Time: 45:00
Line-Up
- Jean-Luc Ponty - 4- and 5-string electric violins, cello, piano (5), bells, conductor and orchestration, producer
Featuring:
- Allan Holdsworth - lead electric guitar
- Daryl Stuermer - lead and rhythm electric guitar
- Allan Zavod - clavinet Piano, electric piano, synthesizer, organ
- Ralphe Armstrong - bass and fretless bass (5)
- Steve Smith - drums, percussion
