Mister Magic
This 1975 release is a masterpiece of soul jazz, with keyboardistBob Jamesproviding the arrangements for Grover Washington's emotive saxophones. James's opening "Earth Tones" has Washington playing soprano over a weave of percussion and electronics that suggests the influence ofMiles Davis's electric fusion work, while "Passion Flower," a beautiful ballad byDuke Ellington's composing partner,Billy Strayhorn, has Washington's soprano backed by rich strings. His tenor is potent and soulful on the punchy version of "Mr. Magic" and funkier still on the James-Washington collaboration "Black Frost."Eric Galeturns in some superb guitar solos, and the studio band, anchored by taut backbeats from bassist Gary King and drummer Harvey Mason, is first-rate.--Adam Rains