A variety of reviews for Eumir Deodato's *Prelude* ranging from high praise to more mixed reactions. Here's a breakdown of some key highlights and themes from the reviews:
*Opening track - Also Sprach Zarathustra*
- Many reviewers note that the opening track is a standout, with its jazz fusion take on Richard Strauss' iconic theme from "2001: A Space Odyssey". It's described as "fantastic," "epic," and even "groovy." However, some describe it as cheesy or "tacky."
*Flute and Instrumental Work*
- There’s appreciation for the flute work by Hubert Laws and other instrumentals, with tracks like "Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun" (a Debussy piece) and "Spirit of Summer" getting specific mention for their classical/jazz fusion feel. Some listeners appreciate the groove and "jazzy" elements, but others feel the music leans too much toward easy listening.
*Guitar Work*
- John Tropea's guitar playing is frequently praised, especially on tracks like "September 13" and "Baubles, Bangles and Beads", where his fuzz tone and solos stand out. He's regarded as one of the album's highlights.
*Overall Sound*
- Some reviewers find the album light on technical innovation, describing the fusion as not flashy enough, while others appreciate its groovy, laid-back feel. It blends jazz with Brazilian influences, funk, and light classical elements, but there’s a recurring criticism that the album sometimes feels "easy-listening" or "lightweight."
*Album Concept*
- The fusion of jazz and classical influences works for many, with particular praise for Deodato's arrangement skills. Others feel the album lacks the intensity or complexity expected from the high-profile lineup of musicians.
*Cover Art and Production*
- The album art is frequently mentioned, with some reviewers calling it "gorgeous" and others noting the unique relief cover. Production by Rudy Van Gelder is also a highlight.
Overall, *Prelude* seems to be a divisive album, with its fusion of styles attracting both adoration and criticism for being either groundbreaking or too light for serious jazz fans.
A1 Also sprach Zarathustra (2001) 9:00
A2 Spirit of Summer 4:04
A3 Carly & Carole 3:38
B1 Baubles, Bangles and Beads 5:20
B2 Prelude to Afternoon of a Faun 5:13
B3 September 13 5:24
Eumir Deodato - piano, electric piano
Ron Carter - electric bass (solo on #4), bass
Stanley Clarke - electric bass (solo on #1)
Billy Cobham - drums
John Tropea - electric guitar (solo on #1,4,6)
Jay Berliner - guitar (solo on #2)
Airto Moreira - percussion
Ray Barretto - congas
Hubert Laws - flute (solo on #5)
John Frosk, Marky Markowitz, Joe Shepley, Marvin Stamm (solo on #5) - trumpet
Wayne Andre, Garnett Brown, Paul Faulise, George Strakey, Bill Watrous - trombone
Jim Buffington, Peter Gordon - French horn
Phil Bodner, George Marge, Romeo Penque - flute
Max Ellen, Paul Gershman, Emanuel Green, Harry Lookofsky, David Nadien, Gene Orloff, Eliot Rosoff - violin
Emanuel Vardi, Al Brown - viola
Harvey Shapiro, Seymore Barab, Charles McKracken - cello
Recorded at the Van Gelder Studios, Englewood Cliffs, NJ