John Mclaughlin EXTRAPOLATION

Composer: John McLaughlin.
Personnel: John McLaughlin (guitar, acoustic guitar, electric guitar); John Surman (saxophone, soprano saxophone, baritone saxophone); Tony Oxley (drums).
Liner Note Author: Howard Mandel.
The reissue of this 1969 debut by the then- 26-year-old John McLaughlin is more than just a trip down memory lane. The music reflects experimental, free jazz trends that influenced jazz in the 1960s. But McLaughlin puts a unique virtuoso spin on this electric post-bop, delivering 10 original compositions that, while highly improvisational, still build on well conceived melodic motifs.
The British quartet's interplay is especially memorable on "Arjen's Bag" and "This Is for Us to Share," the latter featuring McLaughlin on both electric and acoustic guitars. A rubato feel adds charm to this lovely yet convoluted ballad's clever harmonic structure. The album ends with "Peace Piece," a subtle solo acoustic guitar tune that hints at the Indian modal music that McLaughlin would later explore with his group Shakti.

• Format: CD
• Genre: Jazz