Search - The Crusaders :: 1

Crusaders at their best!

4tunes500 | Barneveld, NY United States | 11/20/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Were I to pick my personal favorite cd's of all time this would definitely be in my top 5! This Lp has been in my collection for 20+ years and I have never stopped listening to it. It's held the test of time. I have waited patiently for it to be released on CD and here it is at last as an import.From the opening slow burn of "That's how I feel" to the closing notes of "Mosadi" there is not a bad song in the collection. This was double LP now available on a single CD. Is it worth the Import cost? Yes! (You won't find it as a domestic).This album defines the Crusaders as players. The integrated, cohesiveness of the band is truly a marvel to listen to. This album adds layers of music that are simply mesmerizing. On each listen you discover (or uncover) more and more.The instrumental cover of Carol King's "So far Away" actually adds depth to the original. "Put it where you want it" is just plain fun, "Mystique Blues" captures you right away and sucks you in. And then there is "Sweet Revival", "Mudhole" and "Georgia Cottonfield"...so much quality music.This album is genuine playing, no drum machines or electronics that marr so many smooth Jazz outings. This is fusion from an era when fusion was just reaching it's peak.If your a Crusaders fan this is essential. If your a casual Jazz listener this is a great place to start. Sure it costs a little more but this is a recording you justly deserve. Don't miss it!"

Excellent Work!

James R. Prater | Cleveland Tn. | 09/18/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is the first of three double-length albums that the Crusaders released for ABC/Blue Thumb in the early '70's. It marks the entrance of guitarist Larry Carlton into the group. We start with "That's How I Feel", a song with a killer funky vamp and free solos. The classic of classics follows, the studio version of "So Far Away" with Carlton's wailing guitar line between great solos from everyone. "Put It Where You Want It" is the other hit here. The slow funk of "Mystique Blues" is honey-smooth. "Full Moon" is a bit creepy. "Sweet Revival" is fast, funky, and furious. "Mud Hole" has a James Brown feel to it. It's Just Gotta Be That Way" is wistful and sad. "Georgia Cottonfield" has a great solo from Joe Sample over a Traffic-style groove. "A Shade Of Blues" is a danceable number featuring Sample on clavinet. "Three Children" is a repetitive tune with good solos. Last is "Mosadi [Woman]" with odd time changes in its B-section, and a smooth solo from Sample. 1 is a disc no die-hard Crusaders fan should be without."

Awsome, Jazz at it very best,

4tunes500 | 07/16/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is on one of the best albums ever created by a foursome, very tight and original, and considered a classic by people who love jazz, 12 distinctly different cuts showcases the versatility of all four musicians. Phat sounds and smooth melodies. If you like Jazz, you'll love This."