KPM 1121 FUSION - VARIOUS ARTISTS

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Track 1 - Grand Funk / Brian Bennett

Track 2 - Phase Out / Dave Richmond

Track 3 - Led Balloon / Steve Gray

Track 4 - Look Hear / Clive Hicks

Track 5 - Probe / Steve Gray

Track 6 - Visit To Motown / Dave Richmond

Track 7 - Sitar Mobile / Steve Gray

Track 8 - Flute Reggae / Clive Hicks

Track 9 - Tin Whistle Reggae / Duncan Lamont

Track 10 - Cool Reggae / Dave Richmond

Track 11 - Reggae Bounce / Alan Hawkshaw

Track 12 - Rocky Reggae / Steve Gray

Track 13 - Steel Band Reggae / Brian Bennett

Track 14 - Safari Park / Clive Hicks

Track 15 - Rockin And Rollin / Duncan Lamont

KPM 1121 "Fusion" is one of those library records that has a distinct change in style between Side A and B. On the first half of the album the listener is treated to a selection of wonderful psych rock infused funk numbers that blast out of the speakers in a wave of fuzzy guitar, pounding drums and tripped out organ. The first 5 tracks are just awesome and while "Visit To Motown" and "Sitar Mobile" present a departure from the preceding rock grooves they are utterly lovable in their own special way.

But then we get to Side B which contains a group of reggae themed pieces that left me feeling flat. Despite being produced by such heavy hitters as Hawkshaw, Bennett, and Gray there isn't much joy to be had in my opinion. To be fair though, "Reggae Bounce" does have some redeeming qualities and my feelings are probably based on unfair comparisons with the earlier tracks. Despite the perceived failings I still consider this to be a must have KPM, so do yourself a favour and check it out!