John Mclaughlin - "Where Fortune Smiles" (1970) @320

The truth be told, "Where Fortune Smiles" was not originally released under the leadership of John McLaughlin. Its reissue on CD with McLaughlin as leader seems to exist for marketing purposes only. The reissue notes indicate a 1971 recording date, but my memories of its original release on PYE Records suggest that it was recorded a year earlier. (However, memories can fade.) The other members of the quintet—bassist Dave Holland, saxophonist John Surman (also on Extrapolation ), vibist Karl Berger, and drummer Stu Martin—each contribute equally to this outing.

The compositions, all by McLaughlin and Surman, have strong head arrangements that are not directly quoted in the free improvisations that follow. Fortune does not even hint at rock or fusion. Do not expect any of the usual clear themes, call and response playing, or unison lines. These differences, which may confound many McLaughlin fans, are also its greatest strengths.

Free jazz is what this release is all about. For listeners who don't normally immerse themselves in this sort of thing, it's a record that can be enjoyed only about once a year. But it remains a must-listen. Whoa! Listen...is that a quote which will later turn into “One Word” from Birds Of Fire ? Listen to John?s far-out guitar. Listen to Holland's resonating bass. Listen to Surman as he reveals things to come. Listen for a historical perspective on music which McLaughlin would later deliver.

"Where Fortune Smiles" is really a John Surman recording, but subsequent re-releases have passed the credit on to John McLaughlin (for obvious reasons). The music is similar to but more dense than Extrapolation. McLaughlin's raw sound was starting to take shape by this time and his impeccable chops are on full display. So too are those of the underrated vibraphonist Karl Berger and, of course, soprano saxophonist Surman. The foundation is held loosely in place by bassist Dave Holland and drummer Stu Martin. It's a challenging but interesting listen, especially given McLaughlin's later success and popularity. Although his creativity would peak with the Mahavishnu Orchestra and Shakti, he never sounded more free and exploratory than he does here. Highly recommended for its historical significance as well as some excellent playing.

Track List:
1. Glancing Backwards (for Junior) - (8:54) (J.Surman)
2. Earth Bound Hearts - (4:15) (J.McLaughlin)
3. Where Fortune Smiles - (4:01) (J.Surman)
4. New Place, Old Place - (10:24) (J.McLaughlin)
5. Hope - (7:19) (J.McLaughlin)

John McLaughlin - guitar
John Surman - soprano & baritone saxes (all except 3.)
Karl Berger - piano (all except 2.)
Dave Holland - bass (all except 2.3.)
Stu Martin - drums (all except 2.3.)

Recorded at Apostolic Studios, New York City, late May 1970.
Produced by McLaughlin, Surman, Berger, Martin and Holland.