John Abercrombie, Dave Holland & Jack DeJohnette - Gateway (1975)

John Abercrombie, Dave Holland & Jack DeJohnette's first session in March 1975 sparked a classic trio that would lead to a further album in the 70s, and two more in the 90s.  The debut Gateway album, though, isn't just one of the most inspired ECM albums (amongst a mid-70s purple patch where the label churned out classic after classic), it's one of the greatest and most firey guitar trio jazz records ever made.

It all starts though in a deceptively understated mode, as the laidback groove of Back-Woods Song lopes into life with a memorable hook and some effortless finesse in Abercrombie's solos.  Next there's a short diversion to give Holland and DeJohnette the spotlight, then the album really starts to cook.  After another melodic introduction, May Dance spins out into a lengthy free-for-all, giving the group's interplay room to really shine.

The album's second half cranks up a gear with the Abercrombie-DeJohnette head-to-head of Unshielded Desire.  Abercrombie's volume and tone, not to mention sheer chops, are up there with anything John McLaughlin blasted out in the early 70s.  Jamala, another Holland-penned tune out of four on the album, offers some atmospheric breathing space before the final epic of Sorcery.  If Metheny's Bright Size Life from the same era was a dewy Midwestern sunrise, Gateway is a midday scorcher.

link
pw: sgtg

Previously posted at SGTG:
Characters (Abercrombie)
Sargasso Sea / Five Years Later (Abercrombie/Towner)
Pictures (DeJohnette/Abercrombie)